Essential Oils

Essential oils are the very base of aromatherapy, their strong, pure scents and medicinal benefits combine to create such therapeutic fragrances.

They begin life as natural flora, from leaves to stems and flowers. Then these components are processed, distilled or pressed resulting in a highly concentrated liquid extract of said plant.

These compounds are the purest, strongest-smelling essence of the plant, and therefore possess the highest concentration of the plant benefits.

Essential oils can be used in any of these three ways:

1. Applied directly to the skin (diluted compounds only).
2. Diffused or inhaled.
3. In other products such as lotions, shampoos, or soaps.

Each method has its benefits:

• Using it purely on your skin is excellent for immediate results.
• Inhaling it through a spray or diffuser is ideal if you are looking for a softer, more gentle treatment.
• And using it in other products can give you a more subtle, yet long-lasting scent.

Essential oils and aromatherapy have a variety of natural health and wellbeing benefits. Here are a few of them:

For headaches: Peppermint, lavender, and rosemary are excellent essential oils for migraines and headaches.

For depression: Calming oils like Lavender, bergamot, and chamomile are great complementary essential oils you can use alongside your doctor-prescribed treatment.

For cold sores: Some essential oils such as tea tree and oregano are ideal for treating these painful blisters.

For insect bites: Anti-inflammatory essential oils like basil and mint are the key to fixing bug bites.

Essential oils and pregnant women do not always mix. Some are harmful and lack the basic testing to ensure they are safe for use without side effects or allergic reactions. However, others are ok so long as you stick to the recommended amounts and follow your doctor’s advice. Check out the product label for more detailed information, and this comprehensive guide has some useful advice too.