Unless you’ve had your head buried under a rock you probably picked up on the essential oil phenomenon sweeping across the internet via articles and social media posts. But what are essential oils and why are people so obsessed (including me) ???? Here is the 101 on essential oils that you need to know…aka my take on them!
What are essential oils?
An essential oil is the aromatic, volatile liquid that is within many shrubs, flowers, trees, roots, bushes, and seeds and is usually extracted through steam distillation. Essential oils are highly concentrated and far more potent than dried herbs. They are powerful antimicrobials and date back to biblical times. They are sometimes known as Man’s first medicine due to their amazing homeopathic healing qualities when used properly.
Health-minded people all over the world have learned the value of using high quality essential oils. Their therapeutic and healing potential is enormous. Research indicates that most viruses, fungi, and bacteria cannot live int the presence of most essential oils. Our modern world has only begun the discovery of the power of God’s healing oils-something that the ancient world knew well. Basically….. ESSENTIAL OILS ROCK!!!
How do you use essential oils?
Essential oils can be used topically, aromatically (personally my favorite), or internally. The inhalation of essential oils can be used to combat stress and emotional trauma, reduce appetite and increase satiety, even stimulate the production of hormones from the hypothalmus. This results in increased thyroid hormones (our energy hormone) and growth hormones (our youth and longevity hormone).
It is important that you are only using THERAPEUTIC grade essential oils and are familiar with the brands company. I use the brand YOUNG LIVING. Adulterated and mislabeled essential oils may present dangers for consumers.
Some safety precautions should be considered when using essential oils.
- Remember to read labels and check dosage before using on children.
- Be careful to keep oils away from the eye area.
- Be cautious if you have sensitive skin and always use a carrier oil such as coconut when applying topically to children.
- Each oil comes with dosing instructions so follow closely
- Pregnant woman should consult a health care professional when using essential oils though most all are safe to use.
- Epileptics and those with high blood pressure should consult their health care professional before using essential oils.
- People with allergies should test first with small doses
- Always skin test an oil before applying oils topically
O.K. now to the good stuff…..
MY FAVORITE ESSENTIAL OILS and HOW I USE THEM
Peppermint
I diffuse in my house for headaches, tummy aches, or morning energy boost. Topically I apply with coconut oil as a massage oil for sore muscles, on tummy’s when sore, and bottoms of feet to cool a fever. Sometimes I put a few drops behind my ears and on my temples before I head into a workout.
Lavender
I diffuse for an all natural home air freshener, add to kids bath water to help with bedtime and sleep, and diffuse in kids room for better sleep.
Thieves
The BEST home cleaner and I diffuse to kill airborne germs and help stop sickness from spreading to every family member. During winter this is diffusing every day in my house!
Peace and Calming
Exactly what the name says !!! One smell of this and you just automatically relax and say ahhhhhhh… I diffuse and LOVE the smell so relaxing!
RC
I diffuse this whenever anyone has a cold or cough to help sleep through the night and settle cough, also I apply topically behind the ears and with a carrier oil on the chest to sooth coughs.
DiGize
I rub this with a carrier oil on tummy’s whenever anyone has the stomach flu and diffuse wherever they are resting. My kids tell me it makes there tummy feel better!
Lemon
Awesome home all over cleaner, home air freshener, and we add 1-2 drops to tea or water and drink daily.
Purification
Exactly what the names say! Diffuse and you will feel it purify your home environment, your body and mind!!
There are many many more oils that I have experimented with and really LOVE Them all! I can say without a doubt they have helped me and my family in numerous healing ways. I highly recommend essential oils as part of your daily health and wellness lifestyle!!
Be Well 🙂
Susie R.
Sources:
Essential Oils Pocket Reference 6th edition-Life Science Publishing
Young Living Essential Oils Handbook