Essential oils have been used for thousands of years, due to their therapeutic and healing properties. Essential oils can help those suffering from mental and emotional problems and physical ailments, and can be used in a variety of ways. Aromatherapy involves the inhalation of diffused essential oils, and some oils can be directly applied to the skin or used in baths and compresses. Although there are hundreds of types of essential oils, some of the more commonly used oils include lavender, bitter orange, eucalyptus and chamomile.
Lavender
Lavender is arguably the most commonly used essential oil. Lavender's calming properties are purported to increase feelings of peace and tranquility; lavender is often used in an oil diffuser as an aid in relaxation. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) reports that is is useful in the treatment of a number of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety and depression. Popular physical ailments, such as insect bites, bruises and acne, can also be treated with lavender oil by applying a drop or two directly to the skin.
Bitter Orange
Bitter orange, also referred to as neroli, has a citrus fragrance and is used as an inhalant or in a diffuser or bath in the treatment of nervousness, depression and anxiety. Bitter orange oil is also useful as a massage aid when blended with a base oil such as sweet almond oil. It may boost the immune system during times of stress, or when used as an inhalant during sickness such as the flu or common cold. According to the National Institute of Health's Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, bitter orange oil has also been used as a topical application to cure athlete's foot and fungal infections such as ringworm.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus oil is a scent many people are familiar with, as it is a popular ingredient in products such as mouthwash. It has an almost medicinal-like smell, which aids in the treatment of respiratory ailments such as bronchitis or colds, and is particularly well-suited for use as an inhalant or in a diffuser. It is excellent as a massage aid when blended with a base oil, and can relieve muscle aches and pains. The Mayo Clinic suggests that using topical arthritis products containing eucalyptus oil can provide temporary pain relief. Eucalyptus has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Chamomile
Chamomile is popularly used in relaxation and most commonly is used in tea. There are two distinct types of chamomile oil--German and Roman--which have unique healing properties. German chamomile oil has antiseptic and antibacterial properties, while Roman chamomile has anti-inflammatory and sedative properties. Both are used in the treatment of PMS symptoms and as a calming aid. The UMMC states that chamomile is also effective in the treatment of irritated skin, such as eczema or psoriasis.
References
- Lavender
- Chamomile
- Mayo Clinic: Arthritis Pain Relief
- NIH Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Bitter Orange