Since a few years ago, as we open our social media such as Facebook or Instagram, we would notice our friends may share posts about the essential oils. However, some of us may already be familiar with this popular therapeutic oil, while some may not.
The truth is, essential oils have been very popular since many years ago as aromatherapy, an alternative technique to promote good health and general well-being. But what are they and how do they work?
About Essential Oils
Essential oils are compounds that are extracted from plants. This oil is usually obtained through a distillation process or cold pressing.
During the extraction, the oil brings together the plant’s scent with it. The natural plant’s scents are the ‘secret’ that makes each essential oil unique. Not to forget, each essential oil also carries its own benefits.
Essential oils are used for many purposes other than aromatherapy. They are also used in perfume, cleaning products, cosmetics, soap or even food flavouring.
There are many types of essential oils in the market. The most popular ones are peppermint oil, lavender oil, tea tree oil, Bergamot oil, eucalyptus oil, chamomile oil, frankincense and Cedarwood.
Why are they so popular?
Essential oils have been very popular not only recently. They are mostly known to be used in aromatherapy, which one of the methods is their steamed were inhaled.
But, you can also apply some of the essences to your skin.
The reason they are so popular could be due to its unique scents and most importantly their benefits.
The Potential Benefits
There are many reasons to use essential oils. You can use it for oral hygiene, improve skin clarity, promote a better digestive system, purify the air, improve breathing and respiratory system, and many more.
Since many centuries ago, the users believed that essential oils can provide unique health benefits to them.
For example, if we inhale the essential oil, it will trigger certain areas in our brain (which is called the Limbic system) that can stimulate positive effects on our emotions, behaviour, and promote better brain health.
Not only that, but studies also find that the use of essential oil can help to increase brain function and memories.
Moreover, many have claimed the improvement in their physical well-being. This could be true as the Limbic system also plays a key role in many physiological functions such as heart rate, blood pressure and breathing.
How to use Essential Oils
There are many ways to use this incredible oil. The most popular way is by inhaling them.
You can do this by directly inhaling the scents from the bottle or you can dilute it in the water and inhale the steam using the diffuser or humidifier.
Another way is, you can dilute it with a carrier oil such as olive oil or almond oil then you can apply it to the skin for massage or beauty purposes.
Be creative with your essential oils:
There is no limitation on how you can use the essential oil. All you need to do is to be creative.
You can mix it with your shampoo, body washes, and body scrub to not only give a lovely scent but also alleviate the mood during the application.
Other than a lovely scent, essential oils are known for its antimicrobial power.
With their potent qualities, they can diminish harmful pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. This is why you can add a few drops of essential oils to water or your cleaner detergent for cleaning purposes.
For example, you can mix tea tree oil with water for a multi-purpose kitchen and toilet spray. Or, add a few drops of lavender oil to your laundry detergent to keep your cloth fresh for longer.
The Use of Essential Oils for Mental Clarity and Anxiety
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If you are experiencing stress or anxiety recently, you may want to adopt essential oils into your daily routine.
This is because essential oils are proven to help reduce stress, help to improve mental clarity and manage anxiety.
Scientifically could be like this; when you inhale the scents that come out from the essential oils, it helps you to feel relaxed.
Once you are relaxed, the brain will release more hormone serotonin that helps to alleviate mood, promote a happy feeling and you will be calmer.
You may try lavender, lemon, bergamot, or rose essential oil as your stress reliever.