Most Popular Essential Oils
Each essential oil comes with its own therapeutic benefits.
Lavender is a stress reliever; peppermint is a natural energy booster. With so
many essential oils available, it is sometimes difficult to learn which oil is
best for your specific needs. We have compiled a list of some of the most
common essential oils and what the benefits are of each.
BERGAMOT
Bergamot is a citrus-scented essential oil extracted from
the Citrus Beragamia tree, a native of Southeast Asia, but can now be found
primarily in Italy and along the Ivory Coast. It is a popular aromatherapy oil
and widely used in perfumes and colognes.
Extraction and Application: Bergamot is extracted by
pressing the oil from the rind of the fruit. Bergamot can be used as incense or
in a vaporizer. It can also be diluted with bath water or blended with massage
oils.
Aromatherapy Uses: Bergamot is used to treat stress,
depression, anxiety, anorexia, and a number of infections including skin
infections like psoriasis and eczema. It is used to stimulate the liver,
digestive system and spleen, and provide an overall lift to those suffering
from a general malaise.
Caution: If applied directly to the skin in its pure form,
Bergamot can potentially burn the skin – especially in
sunlight. It is advised to stay out of the sun when using this oil.
CEDARWOOD
Cedarwood is a woody-scented essential oil that comes from
the Juniperus Virginiana tree native to North America. It has been around for
thousands of years, dating back to the ancient Egyptians, and is thought to be
one of the first essential oils ever extracted.
Extraction and Application: Using steam distillation, the
oil is extracted from cedar woodchips. Cedarwood aromatherapy oil is yellow in
color and can be applied via vapor inhalation, as a massage oil blend or mixed
with facial creams.
Aromatherapy Uses: Cedarwood oil is often used as a calming
agent to help alleviate stress and anxiety. It provides a spiritual lift. It
also plays a role in aiding respiratory problems as well as skin issues. Use
Cedarwood to help ease urinary tract infections, too.
Caution: In its highly concentrated state, Cedarwood can
irritate the skin if applied directly to it. It also should not be used during
pregnancy.
CHAMOMILE
Chamomile, widely known for its soothing characteristics
(particularly in tea), is extracted as an essential oil from the leaves of the
flowering plant of the same name. There are two types of Chamomile plants, the
Roman Chamomile and German Chamomile. The aromatherapy oil can be extracted from
both varieties, but healing properties are slightly different.
Extraction and Application: Chamomile oil is extracted from
the flowering leaves via steam distillation. Both varieties of Chamomile can be
blended with massage oils, used in steam or vapor therapy or mixed with lotions
and creams. The Roman variety of Chamomile can also be used in mouthwash as an
analgesic.
Aromatherapy Uses: Many of the following properties are
consistent in both Roman and German Chamomile, unless noted otherwise. Chamomile
is a powerful calming agent, as well as antibiotic, antiseptic, antidepressant
and overall mood lifter. The German variety is often better suited to battle
inflammation, specifically urinary tract and digestive inflammation. Both also
have analgesic properties and can help to eliminate acne.
Caution: Avoid during pregnancy and if allergies to Ragweed
are present.
EUCALYPTUS
Eucalyptus oil comes from the Eucalyptus tree, native to
Australia. It has a powerful scent and is easily recognizable. As an essential
oil, Eucalyptus is an effective agent against respiratory diseases. It also has
the ability to enhance concentration.
Extraction and Application: Eucalyptus oil is steam
distilled from the leaves and twigs of some Eucalyptus trees (there are more
than 500 varieties).
Aromatherapy Uses: As mentioned above, Eucalyptus is a
powerful treatment against respiratory issues. In addition it is used as an
antiseptic, antispasmodic, decongestant, diuretic and stimulant. It also has
cooling properties, which gives it deodorizing characteristics; therefore, it
helps fight migraines and fevers. This cooling capability also helps with muscle
aches and pains.
Caution: Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should
avoid using Eucalyptus, as should individuals who suffer from epilepsy.
Ingested in large doses can be fatal.
JASMINE
Sweet-smelling Jasmine is extracted from the Jasminum
grandiflorum, an evergreen with origins in China. Jasmine is an expensive oil
that has powerful healing properties; it aids with everything from depression
to childbirth. It is known most for its relaxing properties.
Extraction and Application: Extracting Jasmine is a little
different from other essential oils, which are primarily steam distilled.
Jasmine is obtained via solvent extraction, which means it results in a
concrete substance rather than oil. It then must go through an extensive
process whereby the flowers are placed over fats to absorb the fragrance. This
process takes a number of days and yields a small amount of oil. Hence the
reason Jasmine is one of the most expensive essential oils. Add some drops of
Jasmine to your bath or to the vaporizer, or blend it with your favorite
massage oil.
Aromatherapy Uses: Jasmine has been known to ease depression
and childbirth, in addition to enhance libido. It’s great
for respiratory problems, addiction issues, and reducing tension and stress.
Caution: Overall, Jasmine is a fairly safe essential oil as
it’s non-toxic. It can cause an allergic reaction,
however. Pregnant women should avoid Jasmine.
LAVENDER
Lavender is one of the most popular essential oils on the
market – and for good reason. It smells great and
is an effective stress-relieving oil. The name stems from the Latin word “lavera,” meaning “to wash.” In addition to stress-relieving
properties, Lavender is a healing aid against colds, flu and migraine.
Extraction and Application: Lavender is extracted from the
flowers of the plant and steam distilled. Lavender can be used several
different ways. Given the origin of its name, it’s a
wonderful essential oil to use in a bath. Many massage therapists use it to
help relax their clients. Add a few drops to a diffuser or even your
pillow before bedtime to get a good night’s sleep.
Aromatherapy Uses: In addition to stress-relief, Lavender
has the following therapeutic properties: antiseptic, antidepressant,
anti-inflammatory decongestant, deodorant, diuretic and sedative.
Caution: Discontinue use if you suffer an allergic reaction
when using Lavender.
LEMON
It comes as no surprise that lemon is a favorite essential
oil. Lemon is widely appreciated for its “clean”
smell,” but has numerous therapeutic qualities as well. It improves
concentration, aids in digestion and eases symptoms of acne and arthritis.
Extraction and Application: Lemon comes from the Citrus
limonum. The oil is extracted from the fruit’s peeling
via cold expression. Lemon oil is a terrific fragrance for the house, given its
lemony-fresh scent. Add a few drops of lemon oil to the vaporizer or
diffuser for enhanced energy. Or apply it via a carrier lotion during massage.
Want to boost your immune system? Add some drops to your bathwater.
Aromatherapy Uses: Lemon oil is a multifaceted essential
oil. It helps with everything from skin irritation to digestion to circulation
problems. It is a natural immunity booster and can even help reduce cellulite!
Lemon oil helps to alleviate headaches and fever, and is a quick mood enhancer.
Caution: While lemon oil isn’t toxic,
it can cause allergic reactions such as rash. It’s not wise
to use lemon oil in the sun.
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