For years, believers in alternative medicine have trusted in the potency of essential oils. However, with them becoming more widely accessible and reputedly beneficial for health, their popularity is increasing across the board. Integrative medicine expert Yufang Lin, MD, affirms, “Essential oils are exceptional and offer numerous advantages.” Nevertheless, the issue arises from people’s utilization of them.
Essential Oils
According to Dr. Lin, phytochemicals are present in plants along with their structural components. These chemicals possess qualities that are beneficial not just for the plant but also for human beings. As a result, essential oils are created from plant extracts that are concentrated.
The production of essential oils requires a significant quantity of plant material, leading to higher prices for certain varieties. An illustration of this would be…
- About 250 pounds of lavender flower make 1 pound of lavender essential oil.
- About 5,000 pounds of rose petals or lemon balm make 1 pound of rose or lemon balm essential oil.
“According to Dr. Lin, the potency of essential oils as a medicinal plant is due to the fact that a large quantity of the plant is required for their production.”
Benefits of essential oils
Essential oils have been found to have benefits that can span both aromatherapy, a form of complementary medicine which employs scent as a means of improving health, as well as topical application to the skin. Research suggests that essential oils may be effective in providing the following benefits:
- Boost mood.
- Improve job performance through reduced stress and increased attentiveness.
- Improve sleep.
- Kill bacteria, funguses and viruses.
- Reduce anxiety and pain.
- Reduce inflammation.
- Reduce nausea.
- Relieve headaches.
The following essential oils have various benefits and are frequently used:
1. Lavender oil
Dr. Lin’s preferred oil is lavender due to its gentle nature and numerous benefits. According to her, lavender can be used in multiple ways. For example, it can be added to a bath or diffuser for aromatherapy purposes, incorporated into water to produce room or body spritzers, or combined with a base oil to create body oil.
One can use lavender essential oil for its calming and comforting aroma that helps reduce stress. The oil can be blended with a carrier oil to make a great massage oil. Improving sleep quality is another benefit of using lavender, as a previous review of 15 studies found that inhaling essential oils, like lavender, could be helpful for people with mild sleep problems. This particular essential oil is steam distilled from organically grown lavender flowers obtained from France and is certified.
Lavender has been found to be effective in alleviating stress, pain, and improving sleep. According to Dr. Lin, lavender was previously utilized as a cleaning agent in hospitals prior to antiseptics being introduced. Research has also suggested that the usage of lavender oil (and tea tree oil) may potentially cause hormonal disturbances in young boys.
2. Tea tree oil
According to Dr. Lin, tea tree oil is commonly utilized as an antiseptic, antimicrobial, and antifungal agent by the majority of individuals. Additionally, it may also aid in:
- Acne. “Take a cotton swab and dip it into tea tree essential oil. Then, apply it directly on the acne — this is one exception where you don’t have to dilute it,” says Dr. Lin. “It can help resolve acne faster.”
- Athlete’s foot and ringworms. “Dilute it with a carrier oil (a base or vegetable oil like coconut or jojoba oil that helps dilute essential oils) and put the blend on the affected skin.”
It is believed that melaleuca oil, commonly known as tea tree oil, has properties that fight against bacteria and fungi. It is utilized in wound care, to eliminate head lice, and to manage dandruff. In order to treat minor fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot, tea tree oil can either be added to shampoos or used in diluted form on the skin. It is important to exercise caution when using tea tree oil as a lice treatment or in shampoo, as it can irritate the eyes. This particular tea tree oil is distilled from the leaves of Australian Melaleuca alternifolia trees and is known for its warm, woody scent.
Dr. Lin recommends refraining from diffusing tea tree oil if you have young children or pets at home due to its potential neurotoxicity.
3. Frankincense oil
Frankincense, referred to as the “king of oils,” is beneficial in alleviating inflammation, enhancing mood, and promoting sleep. Notably, it has been demonstrated to be useful in reducing asthma symptoms and possibly preventing gum disease. The oil has a woodsy and zesty scent and is used for aromatherapy and can also be found in skin creams. To avoid skin irritation, it is important to dilute the frankincense oil before applying it topically.
4. Peppermint oil
Peppermint oil has a reputation for:
- Be an anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antimicrobial.
- Ease headaches.
- Fight fatigue.
- Lift mood.
- Reduce gut spasms.
- Support digestion.
- Support memory.
Dr. Lin suggests that if you are experiencing gastric irritation or irritable bowel syndrome, peppermint tea can also help calm your stomach. It is known to be a gentle and effortless treatment. In case you decide to use the oil topically, it is essential to dilute it.
5. Eucalyptus oil
During the cold season, having Eucalyptus essential oil can be beneficial. It helps ease nasal congestion by clearing the nasal passages, allowing for easier breathing. (Peppermint oil is also useful for this.) Moreover, it possesses anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that aid in alleviating pain and combating the herpes simplex virus.
Prior to topical application of eucalyptus oil, it is important to take precautionary measures, including dilution. Refrain from oral consumption as it may cause harmful side effects particularly on children and pets.
6. Lemon oil
Lemon oil, obtained from lemon peels, can be diffused in the air or topically applied on the skin using a carrier oil. Lemon oil has a reputation for its ability to:
- Reduce anxiety and depression.
- Reduce pain.
- Ease nausea.
- Kill bacteria.
According to a study, using essential oils such as lemon oil for aromatherapy could potentially enhance the cognitive abilities of those who have Alzheimer’s disease.
Although lemon oil is considered safe for usage in aromatherapy and topical applications, it has been linked to causing skin sensitivity to sunlight, thereby elevating the risk of getting sunburnt. In light of this, it is recommended to stay away from direct sunlight after using lemon, lime, orange, grapefruit, lemongrass, and bergamot oils.
7. Lemongrass oil
The distinct smell of Lemongrass oil is reminiscent of citrus fruits and is recognized for its ability to alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression. Its antibacterial features render it a suitable natural treatment for eliminating bacteria and treating injuries. Its potential to hinder the development of fungi present in conditions like athlete’s foot, ringworm, and jock itch has been demonstrated.
It has been discovered that lemongrass oil can effectively lower blood sugar levels in individuals suffering with type 2 diabetes. It is paramount to employ a carrier oil before administering the oil to your skin.
8. Bergamot essential oil
The essential oil of Bergamot is obtained by extracting the peel of Citrus bergamia fruits, resulting from the crossbreed of oranges and lemons. Its unique and captivating fragrance is commonly incorporated into body lotions, massage oils, and colognes. This oil has been known to minimize stress and potentially aid in the relief of pain and inflammation due to its composition. Eden Botanicals employs a cold-pressing method to extract this oil from the plant’s peel, which is described as having a zesty and sweet citrus aroma. However, to prevent skin irritation, it is crucial to dilute and conduct a patch test before usage. Bergamot oil is photosensitive due to its citrus nature, so it’s advisable to cover up when applying it to the skin or use it during the evening to avoid sun exposure.
9. Chamomile essential oil
For centuries, the soothing fragrance of chamomile has helped many people drift off to sleep. Chamomile essential oil has numerous health benefits, one of which is reducing anxiety. In a small 2018 study focusing on chamomile therapy, anxiety symptoms were found to decrease, and the levels of cortisol – commonly known as the stress hormone – increased. Low cortisol levels have been linked to anxiety disorders. Chamomile comes in two varieties, Roman and German, with German chamomile having higher levels of chamazulene, the active ingredient believed to provide its health benefits. This brand uses USDA-certified organic German chamomile to create their product through a steam-distilled process using the plant’s flowers.
10. Jasmine essential oil
If mythical tales excite you, then you must be aware of jasmine’s reputation as an aphrodisiac. The fragrance’s rich and sweet aroma is commonly infused in perfumes and desserts. Among all solvent-extracted oils, this is the only one that earned a spot on our list. For additional information on extraction techniques, please click here.
Due to its high price tag and potency, Jasmine oil is considered a luxury buy. To make it more accessible, we went for the Jasmine Sambac Absolute oil, which comes pre-diluted with fractionated coconut oil. It has a 10% concentration and can be used straight out of the bottle. However, please note that it’s not suitable for aromatherapy purposes. This oil boasts a delightful flowery aroma that’s both sweet and fruity.
is derived from the flowers of the tropical Ylang Ylang tree. Ylang Ylang oil comes from the blossoms of the Ylang Ylang tree that grows in tropical regions.
With a light, floral fragrance, ylang ylang is utilized in aromatherapy to diminish stress and anxiety. It has been noted by some users as being effective for treating insomnia. This particular ylang ylang oil is produced from certified organic flowers and is extracted through steam distillation. The brand characterizes its scent as sweet with a hint of spiciness and likened it to the fragrance of jasmine, offering it as a more cost-efficient alternative. To view a catalogue of the specific chemical elements, browse through the certificate of analysis (COA) made available in the product’s description, like with other oils supplied by Eden Botanicals.
Oil extracted from rose geranium
Extracted from a geranium plant with leaves that possess a delicate rose aroma, rose geranium essential oil is known to have insect repellent properties, according to some consumers. It is also combined with a carrier oil and employed as a remedy for dry facial skin. Often utilized in cosmetics, soaps, lotions, and perfumes, this essential oil is not organically sourced but is esteemed for its purity and steam distillation method. It is derived from Pelargonium roseum and P. graveolens plants cultivated and grown in South Africa.
The fragrance of patchouli is often associated with the Woodstock era, while others appreciate its spicy and woodsy notes and antibacterial properties. Studies have revealed that patchouli has anti-inflammatory properties, as demonstrated in a 2017 study involving mice. The oil used in this essential oil is sourced from Sri Lanka and India and is USDA and Ecocert certified organic. It has a lovely musky-sweet scent and is distilled using steam.
Oil extracted from the Clary sage plant is also known as Clary sage oil.
Although clary sage oil has been traditionally used for eye health, its recent focus has been on its potential to decrease blood pressure.
In 2013, a study involving women was conducted to examine how inhaling clary sage essential oil affected them during a medical exam that induced stress. The study revealed that inhaling the oil induced a sensation of relaxation and also helped in reducing blood pressure.
Originating from France and extracted through steam distillation, this clary sage essential oil offered by Eden Botanicals boasts a bittersweet aroma derived from the leaves and flowering tops of the plant. Additionally, the brand highlights the herb’s reputation as an aphrodisiac in certain cultural traditions.
It is crucial to heed the warning on the product page regarding avoiding the essential oil during pregnancy. Moreover, despite clary sage’s traditional use for eye care, it is imperative to note that applying essential oils to your eyes is not advisable.
Derived from the cedar plant, this oil is obtained from various parts of the tree including the bark, leaves, berries, and needles, as indicated by its name.
Essential oil derived from cedarwood.
There are various common items like deodorant, bug repellent, shampoo, and cologne that contain Cedarwood essential oil. It has the potential to be beneficial for hair problems such as hair loss and dandruff.
Researchers discovered that adding cedarwood to a combination of lavender and rosemary in an earlier studyTrusted Source was beneficial in reducing hair loss in individuals with alopecia areata, a prevalent hair loss disorder.
According to their product page, Eden Botanicals utilizes steam distillation to extract this oil from wood, and describes its scent as being sweet, rich, and of course, woody.
Using essential oils
To ensure safe usage, Dr. Lin advises caution and awareness when utilizing essential oils due to their potency. Generally, only a few drops are needed.
She recommends avoiding the routine use of these as your body can become accustomed to them, resulting in reduced effectiveness.
Listed below are several ways in which you can utilize essential oils:
Diffusing them
Aromatherapy can be done by diffusing essential oils.
According to Dr. Lin, inhaling the scent of essential oils is an effective method to swiftly alter one’s emotional state. The aroma activates the central nervous system upon inhalation, resulting in an immediate emotional reaction. This technique can rapidly alleviate stress and anxiety.
Combine water and essential oils in an essential oil diffuser and activate its magical properties. An essential oil diffuser is a tool that scatters microscopic oil molecules throughout the space, allowing you to inhale them with ease. Refer to the instructions provided with your diffuser for the appropriate proportion of oils and water to use.
Dr. Lin advises that whichever aromatherapy method you select, it is essential to dilute the essential oil beforehand and avoid direct contact with it. Additional aromatherapy techniques comprise:
- The old-fashioned way. Take deep breaths of the aroma after opening the bottle.
- Dry evaporation. Put a few drops of essential oil on a cotton ball and smell the aroma as it disperses.
- Steam inhalation. Put a few drops of essential oil in a bowl of hot water. Put your head over the bowl, a towel over your head and breathe in the steam.
According to Dr. Lin, a potential downside of aromatherapy is that it may not be as effective in treating dementia or behavioral issues in older adults, likely due to their decreased sense of smell with age.