Essential oils, also known as aromatherapy oils, the liquid
extracts from various parts of plants, are best known for their aromatic
qualities. However, they can be used for much more than making your
room smell good.
Below are seven common uses for essential or aromatherapy oils:
1. Purify the air
When
used in a diffuser, these oils are vaporized and distributed in the
air. Most of these oils have antibacterial and antiviral properties.
When pathogens come into contact with the vaporized oils, these microbes
are inhibited. Therefore, essential oils are effective in purifying the
air of disease-causing microorganisms.
2. Set the mood
We
respond emotionally to scents. These responses can have cultural and
personal roots, but some are pretty common. For example, lavender
relaxes, while citrusy smells tend to be stimulating. We also commonly
associate the fragrance of roses and jasmine with romance. If you want
to evoke a certain mood, such as when you're expecting guests at home,
you can use specific extracted oils for this purpose.
3. Promote relaxation
Most
aromatherapy oils, including the stimulating ones, promote relaxation.
Oils of lavender, chamomile, clary sage, and patchouli are only some of
the essential or aromatherapy oils best for reducing stress and
depression.
4. Clear nasal passages
Some
oils reduce inflammation in the nasal passages when they are inhaled.
Eucalyptus, peppermint, and rosemary are popular aromatherapy oils to
help alleviate respiratory congestion.
5. Ease symptoms
Even
when these extracted oils may not completely resolve a health problem,
they can often relieve symptoms. This is why they are also used as
palliatives during periods of illness and disease. For example,
sometimes just by getting more relaxed, a patient can feel better (such
as perceiving less pain).
6. Improve skin health
Essential
or aromatherapy oils are readily absorbed by the skin. According to
"Aromatherapy: A complete guide to the healing art," after a full-body
massage with 2% dilution of lavender extracted oil, its main chemical
constituents could be detected in the blood, reaching its highest level
20 minutes after a massage.
7. Support and strengthen the immune system
Finally,
essential or aromatherapy oils can help strengthen and support the
immune system to fight infections. Some aromatherapy oils such as
lavender and thyme have been shown to effectively inhibit
microorganisms, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi.
These are
only seven of the most common uses for essential oils. We have not yet
touched on other uses, such as around the home, and with pets. That's
how useful essential oils are.
Remember, these extracted oils are
potent. Even when you use only a few drops, their effects can be
powerful. Take the time to learn how to use essential oils effectively
and safely.By
Alexis Rodrigo
