A Beginner’s Guide to Essential Oils

Essential Oils Are Healthy

It’s hard not to hear someone touting the many benefits of essential oils these days. But there’s so much information out there, where do you start? We’re glad you asked!

Essential Oils – Mother Nature’s Remedies

Essential oils have many versatile uses. They could be a natural alternative to synthetic fragrances, as they provide natural, pleasant scents. They’ve been used in naturopathy as well as aromatherapy. Similar to herbs, you can use an essential oil to alleviate or cure many physical complaints. Whether as massage oil or pleasant room scent – essential oils can increase well-being and positively influence our mood.

But with so many versatile uses of oils, and so many different types of essential oils, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by too much information. Here are a few versatile oils to start you on your essential oil journey. 

Eucalyptus Essential Oil for Respiratory Health

Eucalyptus oil is particularly popular during the cold season because of its ability to help relieve cough and cold symptoms. But it doesn’t just relieve an existing cold; it can also be used preventively. Its germicidal effect successfully supports our body’s own immune system. So colds can’t develop in the first place!

You can use eucalyptus essential oils as an additive for example for inhalations, balms, gels and as massage oils. You can also make compresses and take baths with eucalyptus oil.

Tea Tree Oil Improves Skin Impurities

People all over the world know tea tree oil (or melaleuca) for its versatile applications. The producers extract this essential oil from the leaves of the Australian tea tree. Its healing effect was first discovered by the Aboriginal people of Australia.

However, in this country tea tree oil is mainly known for its effects against skin impurities, pimples, and acne. In contrast to most other essential oils, you can apply tea tree oil directly to the skin. But make sure you use small quantities, and only undiluted if you can tolerate them. Hence, you can apply one or two drops of the essential oil directly to the affected skin area with a cotton swab. It’s antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and strengthens your immune system. Plus, it promotes wound healing and alleviates sore throats.

essential oils lavender

Lavender: The Essential Oil That Soothes Body And Soul

Even the ancient Egyptians already knew of the beneficial effect of lavender! It has a very special scent and chemists know of over 2,000 different properties it contains! You can use the fragrant oil both internally and externally. In contrast to many other essential oils, mothers can even use lavender oil on babies – for example as massage oil. Lavender oil is effective against insects and vermin, skin fungus, and other forms of itching. It’s soothing, sleep-inducing, and renews your skin.

essential oils for wellness

Cumin Oil Relieves Abdominal Discomfort

We often find cumin as a kitchen spice, or possibly a fragrance in perfume, mouthwash, or cosmetics. But it has many benefits as a medicinal herb, which has been frequently used in Ayurvedic medicine. Cumin’s many properties include inducing calm, aiding in digestion, lessening abdominal pain and colic. It’s also aphrodisiac and sleep-inducing.

You can use cumin essential oils both internally and externally. In a fragrance lamp, the essential oil dispels insects and promotes inner peace and relaxation. Only use a small quantity (about one drop) so the smell does not become too intense. It also makes a good blend with another oil or two. As a massage oil, cumin is helpful for abdominal pain and can already be used on babies. You can also use cumin oil for menstrual cramps.

essential oils mint

Peppermint Essential Oil: Relaxing and Refreshing

Peppermint is one of the medicinal plants and has been used in Africa for thousands of years. Besides its medical importance, peppermint also had a mystical character in ancient Egypt. You can use it as a refreshment, to relieve headaces, reduce bloating, promote hair health, and as a remedy against spiders and mice in the household.

Peppermint oil is also common as an aromatic seasoning in the kitchen. Peppermint and chocolate is the perfect combo. Or use it as a refreshing ingredient in cooking and baking. In aromatherapy, on the other hand,  it has an invigorating effect and increases concentration. Essential oils containing peppermint also dispel bad moods and invigorate your senses.

What experiences have you had with essential oils? Are they an integral part of your everyday life? Tell us in the FamilyApp!

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