Bienvenue Ar’home readers,
Essential oils are powerful allies that can help protect us from the ravages of modern lifestyles, and clinical research carried out points towards a vast array of healing activities. I have listed out some of the valuable benefits offered by essential oils for you in this post as an introduction to their range of properties and potential. Enjoy!
1. Affect the psyche
The aroma of essential oils lift our moods, aid in fighting mild to moderate depression, increase alertness, calm aggressive behavior and help us deal with trauma. Lavender, Blood Orange, Bergamot, Rose, Jasmine.
2. Support immune function
Researchers suggest that certain essential oil constituents mimic human immunoglobulin. Essential oil constituents may also elevate levels of lymphocytes & stimulate the immune system. German Chamomile, Clove, Lemon, Mountain Savory.
3. Supply potent antimicrobials
Research indicates that essential oils are highly effective against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Tea Tree, Geranium, Clove, Melissa, Eucalyptus, Rosemary.
4. Provide natural pain relief
Essential oils may be gently massaged into sore & tired muscles or made into a compress & applied with heat. They may also enhance the production of endorphins and activate neurotransmitters in the brain that alleviate pain. Balsam Fir, Black Pepper, Peppermint, Ginger, Lavender, Wintergreen.
5. Reduce inflammation
Inflammation is the root of most chronic diseases. Inflammation is caused by several conditions, incl.bacteria, poor diet, injuries, reaction to chemicals and hormonal imbalances. German Chamomile, Fennel, Balsam Fir, Peppermint, Helichrysum, Wintergreen, Juniper, Thyme.
6. Ease stress & anxiety
Excessive tension, stress and anxiety are all emotions often associated with chronic illness. Essential oils are known to soothe the soul, bringing calmness, peace, and balance without negative effects. Lavender, Frankincense, Clary Sage, Bergamot, Melissa, Vetiver, Sandalwood, Roman Chamomile.
7. Decrease insomnia
Lavender is reported to promote sleep, enhance relaxation, and decrease anxiety. Lavender, Valerian, Roman Chamomile, Frankincense, Marjoram, Clary Sage, Cistus.
8. Rejuvenate skin
Essential oils restore, rejuvenate and improve the appearance of damaged, wrinkled skin, acne, clogged pores, dry skin, eczema and stretch marks. Lavender, Roman Chamomile, German Chamomile, Geranium, Sandalwood, Tea Tree, Patchouli, Frankincense, Myrrh, Helichrysum.
9. Protect against colds & influenza
Because of their antimicrobial properties, essential oils help against cold & flu, and are highly effective for respiratory system. Lemon, Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Rosemary, Frankincense, Ravintsara.
10. Soothe digestive disorders
Essential oils are soothing & effective for digestion when rubbed on the abdominal area, provide relief for nausea, indigestion, heartburn, gas, diarrhea and irritable bowel disease. Peppermint, Ginger, Fennel, Basil, Patchouli, Roman Chamomile, Clary Sage.
11. Improve the circulatory system
A healthy vascular system is free of clots, arteriosclerosis and broken veins. Essential oils promote a healthy circulatory system. Cypress, German Chamomile, Myrtle, Helichrysum, Grapefruit, Bay, Basil, Ylang Ylang, Spikenard.
12. Promote optimal endocrine function
Essential oils bring balance to glands such as the thyroid, pituitary, pineal, ovaries, testes & adrenals. Clary Sage, Fennel, Myrrh, Pine, Lemongrass, Balsam Fir.
13. Support the urinary system
Essential oils rubbed into the kidney area are helpful. Blood Orange, Oregano, Tea Tree, Juniper, Rosemary.
14. Soothe burns, sunburns, minor cuts & scrapes
Essential oils are very antiseptic & cleansing the minor cuts & scrapes. Essential with the addition of aloe vera are very effective. Lavender, Geranium, Marjoram, Tea Tree , Rose.
15. Support muscles & bones
When our muscles become stressed or overworked, this system becomes stiff and painful. Essential oils applied to the affected area offer strong muscular & skeletal support. Black Pepper, Peppermint, Wintergreen, Bay, Rosemary.
16. Provide oral & dental care
Essential oils are often major ingredients in mouthwash & dental care products that help kill microbes that cause tooth decay. Mountain Savory, Clove, Tea Tree, Myrrh, Thyme, Peppermint.
17. Nourish & strengthen hair
Essential oils are effective for hair rejuvenation and make excellent in hair care products ingredients. Sandalwood, Rosemary, Ylang Ylang, Lemon, Lavender, Sage, Cedarwood.
18. Improve mental clarity
Essential oils have a profound impact on keeping the mind alert and focused. Frankincense, Sandalwood, Cedarwood, Lavender, Helichrysum, Blood Orange, Peppermint, Rosemary.
If you are interested in learning more about the practical uses of essential oils, I would recommend listening to Liz Fulcher’s Aromatic Wisdom Podcast, picking up a copy of Gattefosse’s Aromatherapy: The First Book on Aromatherapy ; or consider participating in an aromatherapy introductory course near you. We run a range of aromatherapy education workshops and would be happy to help arrange one to suit your interests.
Essential oils can be a hugely beneficial, empowering and enjoyable addition to your daily routine and self-care when used with an awareness of their properties. Knowledge is key to making the most of this resource, so we encourage you to keep learning, and to share what you find with others who would enjoy it!
Merci, à bientôt,
Sandra