Adding a drop or two of essential oil to your cooking can add a burst of flavor, as well as a whole host of health benefits! However, before you start tossing them into your favorite recipes, it’s important to remember a few tips.
Use only those oils marked as safe for food, and follow all dilution and potency instructions. Additionally, never ingest or apply essential oils without a professional’s advice.
Lemon
Lemon essential oil has a clean, fresh citrus aroma that’s often used to purify the air and deodorize surfaces. It is also known for its anti-inflammatory, astringent, and detoxifying properties.
It can also be taken internally to help support a healthy respiratory system and digestive tract. The lemony scent is a great mood-lifter and can help you stay focused and productive.
Ingesting lemon essential oil is not recommended without a doctor’s recommendation, as it is highly concentrated and quickly metabolized by the body. It is also important to use a carrier oil like almond, olive or coconut oil before ingesting.
Orange
Orange essential oil has a bright, citrusy aroma that is both soothing and cleansing. It is a versatile essential oil that can be used aromatically, topically and internally.
In addition to being antibacterial and disinfectant, it is a gentle astringent that helps to balance skin tone. This oil also supports healthy blood flow and the natural production of collagen and elastin.
It is often recommended for use in skincare products and baths to help with a variety of issues including dermatitis, acne and blemishes. It can be blended with a base oil for safe topical application.
Peppermint
Peppermint essential oil is a common household favorite, and there are many benefits to using it. It helps keep your immune system strong, improves digestion, and helps with skin inflammation.
It can also help with headaches and muscle aches and pains. It contains menthol, which has a cooling effect that can relieve tension and muscle aches.
To use peppermint for these purposes, mix it with a carrier oil and apply it to the area. Be sure to test it on a small patch of skin first to make sure you tolerate it well.
It also has a pleasant scent that can spruce up your home or workplace, and helps to keep ants at bay. Just be careful to not overdo it, as it can be toxic to pets!
Lavender
Lavender essential oil has a calming, physically and emotionally balancing fragrance that helps promote relaxation and improve sleep. It also soothes raw nerves and can help relieve headaches.
It can be applied topically to treat skin problems, including atopic dermatitis and eczema. Its antibacterial properties can also fight against yeast infections, athlete’s foot, and ringworm.
The highest quality essential oil is derived from steam distilling only the fresh lavender flowers and no other part of the plant. The growing conditions, season, climate, and soil conditions affect the chemical composition of the oil.
Several forms of Lavender oil have been demonstrated to demonstrate soothing, sedative activities such as oils, gels, lotions, soaps, sprays, and candle making. They all exhibit a calming and relaxing effect on the body, helping to promote healthy, well-balanced skin.
Rosemary
Rosemary essential oil is extracted from the herb Rosmarinus Officinalis, or “dew of the sea.” This herb is a member of the mint family along with lavender, basil, myrtle and sage.
It’s a powerful anti-inflammatory and has astringent properties that help treat skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne. In addition, rosemary oil stimulates blood flow and promotes healthy skin.
Inhalation is the most common way to use rosemary essential oil. However, you can also apply it topically by applying it directly to the affected area and rubbing it in.
If you’re using rosemary oil to treat a health issue, it’s recommended to start small and work your way up gradually. As with any new treatment, it’s best to consult your doctor before starting.
