Aromatherapy is an ancient powerful practice that uses the therapeutic properties of essential oils to promote holistic health and overall wellbeing. These natural plant extracts offer many benefits. Let’s explore some of the most powerful essential oils and how to use them for natural healing and our overall wellbeing.
Heat vs. Ultrasonic Essential Oil Diffusers
It is important to mention that the only two aromatherapy essential oils that can directly be applied to the skin are lavender and tea tree oil. The rest of the essential oils have to be diffused or mixed. For best results, I highly recommend ultrasonic cool mist diffusers, as opposed to heat diffusers. Heating essential oils diminishes their therapeutic effects. Ultrasonic cool mist diffusers are safer for your respiratory system, and also safe to use around children.
Frankincense Oil
Alleviates stress & promotes relaxation
Frankincense oil, derived from the resin of the Boswellia tree, has an earthy scent and is known for its exceptional calming and soothing properties. It has the remarkable ability to alleviate stress, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation. It is an excellent addition to any holistic health and wellbeing routine.
How to use: diffuse it with your ultrasonic essential oil diffuser.
Improves respiratory function
Frankincense oil has amazing anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, and it is useful for respiratory problems such as asthma, pneumonia, bronchitis, and laryngitis.
How to use: diffuse it with your ultrasonic essential oil diffuser.
Improves skin health
Frankincense oil accelerates the healing of ulcers, blemishes and wounds, as it stimulates cell regeneration.
It is also used to reduce lines and wrinkles by tightening and toning skin, accelerates the healing of blemishes, skin ulcers and wounds, and stimulates cell regeneration.
How to use: mix a few drops in your moisturizer and then apply on your skin.
Lavender Oil
Improves sleep
Lavender essential oil contains compounds that interact with the brain's neurotransmitters that help with calming the nervous system. Lavender is known to relax tense muscles, which helps the body relax for better sleep.
How to use: diffuse it in your ultrasonic essential oil diffuser or rub three to five drops directly on your neck, chest and temples. You can also add 3-5 drops of oil to a warm bath.
Read more on how to improve your sleep here.
Relieves headaches and migraines
There's new evidence that the use of lavender oil can treat migraines. A study in European Neurology looked at the inhalation of lavender essential oils to treat migraines. The study concluded that inhaling lavender essential oil may be an effective and safe way to relieve migraine pain.
How to use: diffuse it in your ultrasonic essential oil diffuser and inhale for 15 minutes. Or add 2-4 drops in 2 cups of boiling water and inhale the vapors. You can also apply it to your temples.
Reduces dark spots
Research indicates that lavender oil has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and helps with skin conditions such as acne, canker sores and age spots.
How to use: add lavender oil to your face wash or body wash. Alternatively, you can mix 3 drops of lavender oil with 2 drops of frankincense oil and apply to the area of concern in the morning and in the evening, before going to bed.
Helps with hair loss
Lavender oil in combination with rosemary oil delivers powerful benefits to the hair and scalp. Both lavender and rosemary oils have properties that can stimulate blood circulation to the scalp. Enhanced blood flow helps nourish hair follicles, promoting healthier and stronger hair growth. They contain compounds that are thought to inhibit the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone associated with hair loss. By blocking DHT, these oils help slow down hair thinning.
How to use: Combine 4 – 5 drops of lavender oil with ten drops of rosemary oil and 2 tablespoons of any carrier oil (like coconut oil or jojoba oil). Apply the mixture and leave it for one hour. Rinse it off thoroughly with a mild shampoo.
Eucalyptus Oil
Boosts the immune system
Eucalyptus oil contains eucalyptol (also known as cineole) that possess antibacterial and antiviral properties. These properties can help the body combat various pathogens, potentially reducing the likelihood of infections that could weaken the immune system.
How to use: diffuse 5 drops it in your ultrasonic essential oil diffuser
To boost your immunity system, we offer you several free recipes of immunity booster shots. Find them here.
Helps improve breathing and stuffiness
Eucalyptus oil is commonly used to relieve respiratory issues, such as sinusitis and congestion. It relieves the symptoms of colds and coughs. Several over-the-counter decongestant products, such as chest rubs, contain eucalyptus oil. By acting as a decongestant and expectorant, it can help clear the respiratory passages, making it easier for the body to defend against respiratory infections and viruses.
How to use: add 3 to 7 drops of eucalyptus oil to boiling water and inhale the vapors for no more than 2 minutes at a time.
You can also directly inhale it from the bottle or add it to a cotton ball or handkerchief.
Use it with your ultrasonic oil diffuser.
Fights bad breath & cavities
Eucalyptus oil can be beneficial for addressing bad breath and promoting oral health due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Eucalyptol helps combat the bacteria responsible for causing bad breath and cavities. By reducing the bacterial load in the mouth, eucalyptus oil can contribute to fresher breath and a healthier oral environment. Its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe inflammation and irritation in the mouth and gums, including gingivitis and cavities.
How to use: Add 1-2 drops to water, gargle and spit.
Mix a drop or two of eucalyptus oil with your regular toothpaste before brushing your teeth.
Incorporating essential oils into your daily life can be a fragrant and natural way to enhance your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. These precious elixirs are a natural alternative to synthetic medications, and offer a versatile and holistic approach to health and wellness.
Do you have a favorite self-care ritual that incorporates essential oils?
Shopping list with links:
Disclaimers: This post contains affiliate links. By purchasing through my links, I may receive a small commission that doesn't affect the price you pay.
The information provided on this site is for educational purposes only and it is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional. Always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or exercise routine.