Essential oils have been used for centuries to naturally prevent and treat a variety of ailments. From headaches, to anxiety, to colds/congestion, to sleep, to skin care - there are many benefits for using essential oils for your body, mind, and spirit.
What Are Essential Oils?
Essential Oils are extracted from a single plant - from its flower, roots, stem, leaves, or fruit. According to Michelle K Gagnon, a bio alchemist and the founder of Bio Alchemy Olfactive and MKG Bio Alchemy, they are the "volatile aromatic molecules of plants."
However, scientifically proven benefits are hard to find, which is why oils should not be used to treat any serious ailment without speaking to your doctor first. It's also important to note that essential oils are not FDA regulated, and some can cause irritation to the skin or allergies.
Here are the best (and safest) ways to use essential oils:
LAVENDER
One of the most powerful aromas you will come across is Lavender. It's known for it's calming effect for anxiety, depression, sleep, and headaches.
PEPPERMINT
This essential oil in aromatherapy can bring about your mental sharpness to levels, even you weren’t aware of. Rubbing this one on your temples and sore muscles, you get a soothing experience and can get rid of congestion, migraines and digestive problems.
LEMON
This acidic oil is perfect for adding to your skin routine. It can be used to help lighten acne scars, even out your skin tone, help fight off cold sores, and so much more.
TEA TREE
Tea Tree oil is great for preventing dandruff and dry scalps. Add a few drops of this to your shampoo for a refreshing shine and scent.
EUCALYPTUS
As a herb, this fresh and pure aroma can ease your airways up and give you a beautiful sense of refreshment as if you are in direct contact with nature. This is a sure way of getting rid of a stuffy nose and tightness of chest. Other medicinal properties include dental care, anti-fungal, anti-microbial and mental exhaustion. So in short, this works amazingly for almost everything.
Summary
These are just a few of the many essential oils that can benefit your mind, body, and spirit. Using these different oil extracts can have a positive impact on your everyday routine. My favorite essential oil will always be Lavender; there is something so calming and peaceful about this scent that helps put me to sleep, relieve headaches and anxiety, and keeps me grounded. Make sure to read the instructions of your essential oil packs before use!
"Mindfulness: The intentional use of attention." - Leah Weiss