Those looking to reduce stress, sleep better, and improve their overall wellbeing should look into essential oils as they can offer a variety of unique benefits.
Essential oils are natural, plant-based chemicals that can interact with the body in a number of ways.
“The idea of essential oils is to capture the properties of the plant – the smell, the taste. They are used with bark, roots, leaves, flowers – just different parts of different plants are used, ”says Steelle Stevens from Oasis Healthy Food.
Most oils are obtained by steam distillation. There is also the cold pressing method, also called expression, in which citrus peel such as orange, grapefruit and lemon are pressed and the oil is pressed out of the plant tissue. Most oils are then paired with a carrier oil.
“Most of our oils are pure, 100 percent oils, and then we recommend that our customers add a carrier oil,” said Stevens. “A carrier oil is any type of oil that you would regularly apply to your skin, be it coconut oil, jojoba oil, vitamin E oil – anything that dilutes the concentrated oil and makes it safe to use.”
The oils can be used topically or for aromatherapy purposes. They are not meant to be taken orally. Ingestion of essential oils can damage the esophagus and the lining of the mouth. Some people put it in their shower, shampoo, or conditioner. A diffuser can also be used to stimulate the lymphatic system, Stevens said.
“The lymphatic system controls parts of your brain that deal with emotions, smells, behavior and long-term memory,” she said. “It can also help control breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. Therefore, the different essential oils affect you differently. “
For example, basil oil is known as a cure for colds and flu. Those looking to reduce anxiety can try rose oil. Lavender can help users relax and fall asleep. Tea tree oil can be used to treat acne, dandruff, or athlete’s foot. Since it can have antimicrobial activity, Stevens said tea tree oil can be good for wounds or new piercings.
“The essential oils can help control all of these things if you know how to use them properly,” said Stevens. “Peppermint can help with nausea and digestion, for example. It can also help with headaches. When pregnant women come and don’t want to try medication, I usually recommend peppermint oil if they have morning sickness or headache. “
Essential oils don’t need to be used every day, especially when applied topically. Stevens said even though they are natural chemicals, the body still needs time to detoxify itself from certain oils, but occasional use can promote healthy daily living. She said diffusers could be used every day, but precautions still need to be taken.
“There are essential oils that can’t be used around your pets, including handing them out if you have a pet in your household,” she said. “So if you have a pet, check or read online to make sure it isn’t toxic to your pet.”
Essential oils are largely safe when used properly. However, they can cause side effects such as rashes, allergic reactions, headaches, and asthma attacks. Those affected should speak to their doctor before use.
Most essential oil bottles have a best-before date on them, but Stevens said they store pretty well – anywhere from three to five years.
