Essential oils are powerful plant extracts that can be used in a variety of ways, including inhaling them, applying them to the skin or adding them to food and drink.
Start with a small amount; 1-2 drops should suffice for most recipes. Excessive use may cause a reaction.
Be sure to purchase high-quality, organic essential oils that are labeled as “food safe” by the FDA.
1. Lavender
The lavender plant, known scientifically as Lavandula angustifolia, produces a fragrant essential oil. It’s a popular fragrance in perfumes and household products. Research suggests that it may help with anxiety and insomnia, as well as hair loss and infections.
Women experiencing hot flashes during menopause may find relief by inhaling lavender fragrance. It reduces the frequency and severity of these sudden, spiking heat surges, according to one study.
Lavender can be applied directly to the skin as a diluted oil or in a diffuser for aromatherapy. You can also use it in a homemade cold compress to soothe headaches or on minor cuts and scrapes. Lavender is considered safe for most people when used as directed, but NIH warns that some people may have a reaction to it.
2. Peppermint
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that can be used for relaxation, stress relief and mood enhancement. They’re extracted from a variety of plants through pressing or distilling. They are not to be ingested, as in a pill, but rubbed on the skin or inhaled through a diffuser.
Steam distilled from the leaves of the mint plant, peppermint oil has a cool, refreshing scent that is invigorating and energizing. It’s known for its ability to help relieve headaches, soothe sore muscles and prevent nausea.
Like any other remedy or treatment, experts at Johns Hopkins caution that it’s important to use essential oils with care. They are not regulated pharmaceuticals and may have negative effects when they’re misused, especially if ingested. Additionally, it’s best to avoid contact with sensitive areas of the body or with children.
3. Tea Tree
Essential oils are plant extracts that contain a mixture of chemicals, including aldehydes, esters, phenols and ketones. They typically smell intense and distinct. Manufacturers use essential oils as flavor or fragrance enhancers and in various cosmetics, soaps, plastic resins and other products.
Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) is a powerful natural antimicrobial that comes from the leaves of a small Australian tree. Proponents claim it helps treat health conditions like acne, psoriasis, dandruff and nail fungus.
But scientific research doesn’t support these claims. And it’s important to note that the Food and Drug Administration doesn’t regulate or monitor essential oils for safety and purity. You should talk to a healthcare professional before trying them. And always test a small amount of any new product on your skin to see how it reacts.
4. Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is a very useful oil for clearing airways, relieving sinus congestion and fighting harmful airborne bacteria. It contains powerful bactericidal, antifungal and stimulating properties.
Eucalptol and alpha-terpineol are the main chemical constituents of eucalyptus essential oil. Both these compounds produce a cooling vapor that rejuvenates and invigorates the skin. It can also be used in a massage to relieve muscle pain and soreness, boost circulation and ease headache.
Eucalyptus has been shown to reduce the inflammatory effect of chronic bronchitis and inhibit the hypersecretion of mucus. It is known to help alleviate a common cold, fight bad breath, soothe mouth irritation and relieve toothaches. It is effective against several types of bacteria including E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. It also has antiviral and fungicidal properties.
5. Rose
Rose is an exquisite essential oil that is often used in skincare and aromatherapy to promote holistic well-being. It is also known for its balancing and calming properties, promoting relaxation before sleep when diffused or applied diluted to the skin.
This delicate oil is extracted from the petals of the flower (Rosa damascena L. or Rosa centifolia L.) using steam distillation. This method is preferred due to its ability to preserve the integrity of sensitive aromatic compounds and produce a pure, high-quality oil.
Rose oil is typically diluted in a carrier oil before applying it to the skin or ingesting it. For safety and efficacy, consult a qualified healthcare professional before use.