There are dozens of essential oils out there, so choosing the right one for you can be tricky. We present to your attention the 8 best and most useful essential oils for all occasions!
1. Lavender oil
Lavender angustifolia, a flowering plant native to the Mediterranean, is used to make lavender oil, which has long been used to help with a variety of skin conditions, including burns, cuts, and acne. Lavender oil is also known for promoting relaxation and good sleep, as well as fighting depression. Studies have shown that inhaling the scent of lavender in combination with neroli oil and chamomile significantly reduces anxiety and improves the quality and duration of sleep.
Combine lavender with chamomile, neroli, sage, rose, or bergamot for stress relief and restful sleep. Drip some oil on your pillow, spray it in your bedroom, and keep a bottle of oil in your bag so you can always soothe it in moments of stress.
2. Tea tree oil
Native to Australia, tea tree oil has antibacterial and antiviral properties and may protect against over-development of yeast infections. Studies show that applying tea tree oil to injured and irritated skin helps fight infections, reduces inflammation, and speeds up the healing of skin lesions.
To help relieve inflammation and speed up wound healing, dilute tea tree oil with coconut oil and apply this mixture to your skin. Also, tea tree oil is an excellent remedy for acne. Apply some oil directly on your pimples to clear them up and soothe redness.
Tea tree oil is not safe to take by mouth, so use it topically. You can also use this oil as a mouthwash – add a few drops to a glass of water, stir, rinse your mouth and spit it out.
3. Mint oil
Derived from peppermint, a hybrid plant that grows throughout Europe and the United States, peppermint oil has traditionally been used to improve digestion, treat respiratory problems, increase energy, and improve mood. It also has significant antimicrobial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, and studies show that it can relax the gastrointestinal tract, ease irritable bowel syndrome, and reduce nausea and stomach pain. Other studies show that peppermint improves memory, increases alertness and energy, reduces drowsiness, and improves cognitive and physical performance.
For nausea or indigestion, mix a few drops with a tablespoon of honey or agave nectar, then add to hot water and drink as a tea. For an instant boost of energy and vitality, pour some peppermint oil onto your handkerchief or inhale the fragrance straight from the bottle.
4. Eucalyptus oil
Eucalyptus, originally from Australia, has powerful antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects and strengthens the immune system. Eucalyptus oil has traditionally been used for respiratory conditions, and studies show it is effective in relieving the symptoms of bronchitis, sinusitis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other conditions.
To open your sinuses and get rid of congestion, add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a pot of boiling water, tilt your face over the pot (but not too close to burn your skin), cover your head with a towel, and inhale the aroma while taking deep breaths. Combine eucalyptus oil with oregano, tea tree, thyme, or rosemary for added pathogen-fighting potential.
5. Rose oil
Rose oil, usually made from damask rose, comes in several forms. The essential oil obtained by steam or water distillation of rose petals is called “Rose Otto”; the remaining liquid is called rose hydrosol. Some rose oils are extracted using a solvent to give what is called rose absolute. All of these species are often found in aromatherapy, but Rose Otto is the preferred form, albeit more expensive.
Traditionally used for stress relief and calming, rose oil is also considered an aphrodisiac, uplifting mood and libido. This is an excellent essential oil for treating skin conditions, especially for dry and sensitive skin, and it can also help fight acne.
To soften, hydrate and heal skin, add a few drops to your regular moisturizer or dilute XNUMX:XNUMX with sweet almond oil and apply directly to skin. Inhale the aroma of the oil straight from the bottle to relieve fatigue and improve your mood.
6. Lemongrass oil
Lemongrass oil, a tropical plant native to South Asia, is rich in flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which have powerful antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies show that it can reduce skin inflammation, treat infections, speed up wound healing and control bacterial growth, and even help fight drug-resistant bacteria. It has also been shown to help relieve arthritis pain, reduce gingivitis, improve oral health, and make breathing easier.
For inflammation and joint pain, add lemongrass oil to sweet almond oil or jojoba oil and massage into the skin. Add a few drops to warm water and use as a mouthwash or inhale directly from a bottle to reduce anxiety and improve your mood.
7. Clove oil
Derived from clove native to Indonesia, clove oil is one of the richest sources of eugenol, a compound with powerful analgesic and antiseptic properties. Eugenol has traditionally been used to treat infections and relieve pain, as well as an immediate analgesic effect for toothaches. It is extremely effective in fighting foot fungus and ringworm, and can relieve itching and soothe inflammation.
Clove oil is also a powerful general dentifrice, and studies show that it reduces toothache, inhibits plaque formation, and kills pathogens in the mouth. For candidiasis and other infections, add a few drops of clove oil to warm water and use as a mouthwash, or add whole or ground cloves to your tea. To soothe your skin, dilute clove oil with coconut or jojoba oil and apply to problem areas. For toothache, apply a few drops to a cotton swab and dab it on the aching tooth.
8. Rosemary oil
Fragrant rosemary is a relative of mint. Rosemary oil has traditionally been used to enhance mood and improve memory. Research shows that inhaling rosemary can increase cognition, concentration, and memory. It can also improve the accuracy and performance of the mind. This oil is also great for improving mood, boosting energy levels, and reducing stress. According to research, inhaling the aroma of rosemary oil lowers levels of cortisol, the stress hormone.
To improve memory and cognition, use rosemary oil with lemon, lavender, or orange extract. For an instant energy and mood boost, put a few drops on a handkerchief or inhale straight from the bottle.