Therapeutic Benefits of Essential Oils
The therapeutic benefits of essential oil are well documented. Ancient civilizations in China and Egypt made use of essential oils for everything from skincare to haircare, to healing illness and muscle pains. In modern times, aromatherapy is an art form and a science. Aromatherapy is finally being used in hospitals, where medical professionals are integrating essential oils as a supplemental treatment. Some companies are studying the use of aromatherapy to facilitate stress reduction in the workplace. Yet, many people are yet unaware of how powerful and profound the therapeutic benefits of essential oils can be. Since these unique oils are a product of the immune center of the plants from which they’re extracted, humans can use oils to support personal health and wellness. Here are some of the amazing benefits reaped with the use of essential oils.
How Are Essential Oils Used for Therapy?
Ultrasonic Diffusers
Essential oil diffusers provide an easy way to saturate a room with the scent of oils. These diffusers break down the oil particles into micro-molecules, which are then disbursed into the air in negative ions mist form. Negatively charged ions attach themselves to harmful positive ions in the air. This process purifies the room’s air and provides various therapeutic benefits depending on which oil you choose. Ions are in the air around us all the time. Positively charged ions can cause irritability, fatigue and lethargy, while negative ions—most prevalent by the ocean—stimulate serotonin production in the brain, making us feel energized and happier. The results from using essential oils in an ultrasonic diffuser are immediate and potent.
As Direct Inhalation
Have you ever watched an old movie where a woman faints, and the doctor arrives and waves a bottle of “smelling salts” under her nose? He’s using essential oils. Inhaling essential oil produces instant results that range from invigoration (as in the case of the fainting woman), reduction of stress and anxiety, relief from indigestion and sinus congestion, headache relief and much more. The benefits vary based on your condition and the type of oils used for inhalation. Open the bottle and take a whiff.
In Massage Oil
Pure essential oil is concentrated and needs to be blended with carrier oils like fractionated coconut oil—a preferred carrier oil for massage use because it blends well with essential oils. Using essential oil in massage oil allows the masseuse to deliver therapeutic benefits directly to the part of the body that needs it most. The soothing aroma of the oil, combined with the gentle massage motions, is already a pleasing sensation, but when you add the unique benefits of essential oils, the massage gets even better.
In a Facial Steamer
Another fun way to use essential oil for therapeutic use is in a facial steamer. You don’t have to have a special facial steamer. You can use a regular kitchen pot, but not one used for cooking—it should be a dedicated facial steamer pot. This method focuses therapeutic benefits directly on the skin in a way that maximizes results. The steam works to open pores, which allows the oil-infused steam to enter the under layers of the skin and treat the foundation of the issues.
Boil a pot of water. Set the pot on the table and add several drops of your chosen essential oil. These oils are highly concentrated, so the scent will be strong. Get a large clean bath towel, place the towel over your head and position your face over the pot. Make sure you’re far enough so it’s not too hot. Pull the towel around so it makes a tent over you and the pot. Close your eyes and breathe through your nose, letting the oil-infused steam fill your lungs and dampen the skin on your face. You’ll quickly feel the benefits of the combined facial and inhalation.
Other Ways Essential Oils Can Help
Essential oils benefits are specific to the type you use. Here are several to give you an idea of what to expect when you start using essential oils in your life. Acne is helped by jojoba, tea tree, myrrh, rosemary, and ylang-ylang. Under eye circles can be helped by cedar and cypress. Wrinkles are reduced with clary sage, geranium, myrrh and sandalwood. Dry skin responds to rosemary and ylang-ylang. There are many more therapeutic benefits to be gained from using essential oils. The more you use them, the more you’ll realize you can’t live without them.