Essential oils are concentrated, powerful plant extracts. They can be inhaled, used topically or ingested in foods with the proper dilution.
There’s evidence peppermint oil relieves IBS symptoms, while lavender may help with sleep problems. But you need to know what to look for and how to use them safely.
Aromatherapy
The concentrated scent of some essential oils stimulates the olfactory system, sending signals to your limbic system that can calm or energize you. This is thought to be how aromatherapy helps reduce anxiety, nausea, pain and depression. However, rigorous scientific studies of these oils are lacking.
Some studies show that inhaling certain essential oils can help with conditions like bronchitis and asthma. Other oils are believed to have antimicrobial properties. However, because test-tube experiments often don’t reflect what happens inside the body, more human studies are needed before these claims can be verified.
It’s important to remember that essential oils aren’t a substitute for professional medical care. Always use them under the guidance of a health care professional and with the full knowledge of your doctor. Before applying essential oil to the skin, it’s best to dilute it with another substance, such as a carrier oil or unscented lotion. Avoid applying it directly from the bottle to your skin, as this can cause irritation.
Topical application
When inhaled or applied topically, essential oils can help treat various health conditions, including headaches, anxiety disorders, skin problems and a range of other ailments. They can also be used to enhance moods and clean homes.
Typically created by steaming the leaves, flowers, bark, roots or resin of the plants, they are highly concentrated natural extracts. They may be used in a diffuser or humidifier for inhalation, mixed with water or a base massage oil for topical application or added to a bath.
Experts recommend using a carrier oil when applying essential oils to the skin, as undiluted oil can cause a skin reaction. Those who suffer from certain health conditions should consult their doctors before trying out aromatherapy, such as those with heart-related illnesses, pregnancy and breastfeeding or hormonal issues. They should also avoid using birch and wintergreen oils, which contain methyl salicylate, a chemical that is toxic to children under the age of 6. This could lead to serious health complications.
Internal use
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that capture a plant’s aromatic scent or flavour. Manufacturers use them to enhance the smell or taste of cosmetics, food additives, soaps, plastic resins and perfumes. They also show promising antimicrobial and other biological activity.
When inhaled, the aroma molecules in these oils travel from the olfactory nerves to the brain. They impact the amygdala, an area of the brain responsible for emotion and stress. They can also reduce inflammation and increase blood flow, making them useful in treating a variety of health conditions.
Some oils, like frankincense and lemon oil, promote detoxification by helping your body eliminate toxins that build up over time. They also work as natural headache and migraine relievers by relieving the tension that causes these symptoms.
Safety
As with any product, it’s important to follow the directions on the label. If you have any questions, consult with a healthcare professional. Also, it’s important to keep essential oils and other oils out of the reach of children and pets.
If inhaled directly, essential oils can irritate the nose and throat. This can cause symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath. These effects are especially common in people with respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
It’s also important to use proper dilution when applying essential oils to the skin. It is also important to avoid ingesting essential oils and to avoid combining them with certain medications. Always seek a trained, knowledgeable aromatherapy practitioner for advice on safe dosages and uses.
