Essential oils, extracted from roots, stems, leaves, flowers, fruits and bark of plants, offer many health benefits. But adding a dash of lavender oil or lemon oil to your food doesn’t automatically make your cooking healthy.
Some may cause skin irritation, while others aren’t safe to ingest or can even be toxic when concentrated. Only use oils listed as “generally recognized as safe” by the FDA, and avoid using them on children or pregnant women.
Skin and Facial Treatments
The oils’ anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties are great for dry, oily or acne-prone skin. They can also help balance hormones and reduce redness and irritation. It’s important to keep in mind, though, that essential oils can be dangerous if ingested or taken internally, and using too many can cause a variety of skin reactions.
Many essential oils have natural detoxifying properties that can help clear your complexion, and some, such as neroli oil, have natural brightening effects that lead to a more even skin tone. Tea tree oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help manage mild cases of acne. And oregano oil is a great natural alternative to prescription acne medications, as it can kill the bacteria that causes it.
A facial using a custom blend of essential oils can be a wonderful way to enhance your skin’s health and beauty. Make sure to use a high-quality carrier oil, and always dilute your essential oils before applying them to the face.
Hair Care
Unlike keratin treatment, which uses harsh chemicals that can damage your hair, essential oils promote healthy scalp and hair growth. They also help combat dandruff and strengthen your hair.
Hidden within a plant’s roots, seeds, flowers, bark or leaves are concentrated plant compounds called essential oils. These oils give the plant its scent and perform important functions, like protecting it from hazardous environmental conditions or assisting with pollination. When you inhale the scent of an essential oil, it travels directly to your olfactory nerves and then to your brain.
Make sure you buy high-quality, organic, pure essential oils, and store them in a cool dark place. They can quickly lose their therapeutic properties, and can even irritate your skin. It is best to use them in conjunction with a carrier oil, and always test on a small area of your skin before using. The FDA does not regulate the purity or quality of essential oils, so be cautious when trying them for cosmetic use.
Aromatherapy
The eugenol in the oil from a cedarwood tree, for instance, may help to relieve congestion and wheezing caused by chronic bronchitis or asthma. However, it’s important to note that because essential oils are concentrated and potent, they can be highly volatile and may emit toxins into the air as they break down. Also, the chemical makeup of an individual’s own body can affect his or her reaction to the oils.
Inhalation and skin application of the oils are considered the safest ways to use them, says Dr. Ricker. These can include a room diffuser, putting drops on a tissue or cotton ball, or using a carrier oil to massage the oils into your skin.
The practice of aromatherapy and the manufacture of essential oils are currently unregulated in the United States, so it’s a good idea to work with an experienced practitioner and follow their instructions carefully. It’s also important to store the oils properly, since exposure to heat, light or oxygen can degrade them.
General Health
When applied to the skin, essential oils are absorbed into the bloodstream and can travel throughout the body to enhance various aspects of overall health and well-being. This includes stress and anxiety reduction, improving sleep and easing pain and nausea.
Unlike artificial fragrances, natural essential oils do not contain any chemicals or synthetic compounds. They are distilled for purity and potency. They are a natural, cost-effective way to promote physical, emotional and spiritual health and wellness.
Inhaling essential oils can help relieve sinus and chest congestion, according to research. It also can boost energy levels, ease fatigue and improve moods. However, some people may not be able to tolerate the strong aroma of certain oils or could have sensitive skin reactions, according to Davila. It is important to choose a high-quality oil and use it sparingly, if at all. It is not recommended to take essential oils orally, as it can impact gut bacteria and cause irritation in the esophagus and stomach.
