If you read my posts, then you probably know that I’m a person who likes to take natural and holistic approaches to healthcare. I believe that by using natural remedies, we can avoid experiencing all those unwanted side effects and get better results. One of the safest and most effective forms of alternative medicine that I’ve come across is aromatherapy. It involves the usage of plant-based oils to provide the mind and body with numerous health benefits.

Essential oils used in aromatherapy have the power to trigger responses in the brain that heal the body. These oils have been proven to heal digestive disorders, balance out hormone levels, and significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Studies have also shown that by inhaling essential oils, nerves in the nose trigger powerful brain responses. When applied topically, essential oils are absorbed through the skin and enter the bloodstream faster. In aromatherapy, it’s extremely important that the oil you use is pure and not fragrance oil. Pure essential oils are 100% natural while fragrance oils are synthetic and in some cases are unsafe to use on the skin. Here are some of the ways I use essential oils in my everyday routine.

Diffusion

Diffusing my favorite pure essential oil in the morning is a great way to start my day the right way. When I need an energy boost, I turn to stimulating or uplifting oils such as lemon, peppermint, and bergamot. I finish my day with relaxing and sedative oils such as lavender and chamomile at bedtime.

Inhale

When I need to clear my mind, I inhale directly from an open bottle or rub a drop of oil between my palms and breathe in the aroma. You can do this as many times as needed throughout the day.

Massage

Whenever I can, I give myself a massage at home to ease tension, stimulate circulation and help deal with cellulite. I start by massaging the feet as this way the oils enter the bloodstream faster.

Baths

When taking a bath, I either add 2-5 drops of essential oil to a carrier oil or use it with Epson salts. For a relaxing bath, I like to use a blend of clary sage, bergamot, lavender and chamomile essential oils. I always avoid cinnamon, oregano, cassia, wintergreen, and lemongrass in baths with essential oils because they can irritate the skin.

Topically

The most common places to apply oils are the chest, temple, the bottoms of the feet and the pulse points. Once you get used to it, you can start applying oil to different parts on your body, depending on where you’re experiencing pain. I like to apply 2 to 3 drops right on the skin or combine 5 to 10 drops with a carrier oil like grapeseed, jojoba or olive oil.

How to Choose Essential Oils?

Consider your purpose – do you want an essential oil that will help you elevate your mood or do you need something to treat a condition? Here is a list of the pure essential oil I use the most.

Lavender

Lavender is the most popular of the essential oils, and for good reason. In it is pure form, lavender oil has antibacterial and antiviral properties, which can accelerate the healing time for bites, scrapes, and stings. It does not have to be blended with a carrier oil and can be applied directly onto the affected area. Lavender also promotes relaxation and sleep.

Peppermint

A wonderful oil with cooling power that can be used to reduce raised body temperature. It needs to be diluted with a carrier oil and can be rubbed on the chest, neck or back for instant cooling effect. The smell of peppermint can also be used to alleviate feelings of nausea, which means it is also a great option for morning sickness.

Eucalyptus

A powerful antibacterial, antiviral and antispasmodic oil perfect for colds and coughs. I like adding a few drops of pure eucalyptus oil to a vaporizer to help clear and disinfect my nasal passages and lungs.

Tea Tree Oil

A versatile essential oil with antiseptic, antifungal and antibacterial properties that I use to treat scrapes, cuts, insect bites, fungal infections, and even dandruff. When combined with coconut, it can also be used as an effective acne treatment.

Roman Chamomile

This is an essential oil with powerful anti-inflammatory properties. It is the best choice for sensitive, inflamed and acne-prone skin. When mixed with coconut oil it can be used to treat diaper rash and soothe eczema.

Grapefruit

Similar to lemon oil, grapefruit oil can help with fatigue and can also alleviate the effects of jet lag. Thanks to its antiseptic properties, this citrus oil can be added to your homemade household cleaners to keep your place spotless.

Frankincense

This essential oil can be used both for relaxation (in baths) and to speed up the healing of bug bites and minor cuts. Experts say that Frankincense oil can also be used to treat depression, immunity, inflammation, as well as to increase spiritual awareness.