The Benefits of Using Essential Oils
Essential oils have been around for thousands of years, providing natural remedies for both physical and mental ailments. Not only do they smell fantastic, but they can also help relieve symptoms of anxiety, depression, insomnia, and physical pain, just to name a few. It’s important to do a lot of research before using essential oils, and it’s always a good idea to check with your doctor or an aromatherapist to make sure you are using them correctly.
Always dilute any oils that you use as they are very potent. You can use carrier oils such as almond oil and olive oil or just plain water to dilute your essential oils. Dilute with carrier oils to apply to your skin, and dilute with water when using an oil diffuser or when using essential oils as cleaning reagents. A 5% concentration of essential oils is considered the maximum safe concentration for adults, which is about 30 drops of oil per ounce of carrier solution.
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Now for the fun part: knowing which oils and oil combinations to use to benefit you! I have an oil diffuser and I love to mix and match my oils depending on how I feel that day. Tired and groggy? Jasmine essential oil helps keep you alert and focused while lemon and thyme essential oils are said to boost your mood and relieve stress. Maybe you have the opposite problem and can’t sleep, in which case lavender is your oil. Basil essential oil can help get rid of a headache, chamomile treats eczema; and eucalyptus, yarrow, and peppermint help relieve symptoms of the flu and common colds. Remember getting your belly button pierced at sixteen and having to rub tea tree oil on the fresh wound every night? No, just me? Well, tea tree essential oil is known for its antimicrobial and disinfecting properties and can help heal acne, bites, and burns. The options are endless!
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My favorite ways to enjoy essential oils are by using my oil diffuser, putting a few drops in a spray bottle along with water, rubbing alcohol, and dish soap for a daily shower spray, and putting a drop or two of an anti-fatigue oil in my moonrock bracelet to enjoy all day long. Tell me your favorite essential oil combinations and uses by sharing on your instagram story and tagging me @afterrsummer! Have fun with your aromatherapy!
Autumn Mulgrew