A Guide to Therapeutic Essential Oils

They leave you smelling sweet like nothing else, help you get rid of health ailments, and make you more beautiful- essential oils are much more than mere oils. Their names evoke an exotic feeling in our hearts. They’re natural, chemical-free alternatives to everything from traditional cosmetics to potentially toxic fragrances.

Essential oils can be used for reducing stress, increasing focus, soothing muscles, purifying body, maintain emotional balance and to support the immune system. You also can use an oil based product to clean your house, pet laundry and the buckets at the barn.

Essential oils can back us through many of our everyday actions and life changes and there are different grades of oils. Before applying anyone to use, you should know everything about them. Take a look.

Eucalyptus Oil

Use it when: You’ve congestion.

How it works: Eucalyptus oil acts as an expectorant (a medicine promoting coughing up and spitting out), and thus helps to clear mucus from the respiratory passages. Boil 4 cups of water, let it cool slightly, then pour it into a bowl. Add 4 drops of eucalyptus essential oil, drape a towel over your head, and lean over the steam. Inhale for 10 to 15 minutes.

Precautionary Tip: If you’re pregnant or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician before trying any essential oil.

Peppermint Oil

Use it when: Your head aches because of tension.

How it works: Peppermint contains menthol, a natural anaesthetic that numbs pain receptors. A study found that using a peppermint-oil blend to the forehead to be as effective for pain relief as taking acetaminophen. However, peppermint oil can irritate the skin if applied directly to, so you must dilute it first. Add 2 drops to 1 teaspoon of a carrier oil (an unscented base oil, such as sweet almond), then massage into skin.

Informative Tip: Peppermint oil has been observed to alleviate stomach discomfort by studies. Take ½ teaspoon, or try coated tablets which are available at drugstores.

Jasmine Oil

Use it when: You have a bad mood.

How it works: Studies suggest that jasmine oil may act as a natural antidepressant when rubbed into the skin. Add 5 drops to a couple of ounces of carrier oil and then rub into shoulders. Jasmine oil may help you concentrate, too. Study subjects rated themselves more alert after smelling the scent that was applied to their skin. If you’re feeling energy-sapped, dab jasmine oil onto your temples.

Clove-Bud Oil

Use it when: You have a mouth sore or a toothache.

How it works: Eugenol is a chemical in clove-bud oil, which is analgesic (pain reliever) and antibacterial in nature. It is effective for treating pain in the mouth. In fact, it is used by dentists who mix it with zinc oxide and use in temporary fillings. Mix 1 drop in 1 cup of water and apply directly with a cotton dab.

Additional Tip: Gargle with a mixture of water and 1 drop of clove-bud oil to get rid of bad breath. But remember not to swallow it because it can cause an upset stomach.

Though essential oils are easy and fun to use and work efficiently, it must be remembered while using them that they are not a substitution for professional medical advice and treatment. Also, make sure you use the unadulterated form of therapeutic essential oils to attain their utmost benefits.

Images: Getty

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