Aromatherapy with essential oils has been used for centuries for its therapeutic and holistic healing benefits. Essential oils are highly concentrated, volatile compounds extracted from plants, trees, and flowers, and are known for their powerful therapeutic properties. In this article, we will discuss the numerous benefits of aromatherapy with essential oils, including its ability to reduce stress and anxiety, aid in relaxation and sleep, provide relief from pain, and improve overall health and wellbeing. We will also explore the different types of essential oils available and how to use them safely and effectively. Finally, we will discuss the potential risks and side effects associated with aromatherapy and essential oils.
What are essential oils?
Essential oils are concentrated, natural substances extracted from the stems, leaves, flowers, roots, and other parts of plants.
Are essential oils safe to use?
Yes, when used properly, essential oils are generally safe and can be used to provide therapeutic benefits.
What are essential oils used for?
Essential oils are used for a variety of purposes, including aromatherapy, massage, skin care, and natural home remedies.
Can essential oils be used with CBD?
Yes, CBD and essential oils can be used together for their health benefits. The combination of the two can provide enhanced therapeutic benefits.
How do I use essential oils?
Essential oils can be used in a variety of ways, such as through topical application, diffusers, and inhalation. Always consult a doctor before using essential oils.
We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. The popularity of complementary and alternative medicine CAM has increased over the past few decades, and essential oils are a part of that. In fact, according to the Global Aromatherapy Market Analysis, Companies Profiles, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast to , the global aromatherapy market is projected to grow by 8 percent between and But what exactly are essential oils? For those new to this trend, these incredibly potent oils some of which have been around for centuries are extracted from plants to capture their flavors, scents, and overall beneficial properties. They make for a great addition to your skin, hair, and healthcare collection, and can also be used for aromatherapy. Keep reading to see which oils can best meet your needs. This incredibly popular oil has all kinds of benefits. This subtly floral scent can help people to relax and sleep. Moreover, breathing it in has been found to help with alleviating headaches , while the use of the oil topically may help reduce the itching and swelling from bug bites. Safety There are a few known side effects. These include nausea, headaches, chills, and vomiting. It can also irritate the skin if you have an intolerance. Featuring a combination of a light floral and herbal aroma, this oil has the potential to put your mind at ease when diffused and inhaled through steam. Safety Anyone allergic to daisies, marigolds, and ragweed should avoid using this oil altogether. Its antioxidant properties have also been found to help treat acne and improve complexion for an overall younger look. Safety Skin irritation can occur when used topically, so make sure to use more of the carrier oil if you want to reap the skin care benefits of rose oil. This earthy, herbal, and sweet-scented essential oil can be used on the skin to help to minimize scarring , decrease inflammation, and act as an overall healing agent. This flowery oil emits a spicy but sweet aroma, and has been suggested as an aid in relaxation , a self-esteem builder , and it even may act as a repellant toward certain insects. Safety Myrrh should never be taken orally. More serious side effects include heart irregularities and lower blood pressure. It can also increase the risk of miscarriage if taken by people who are pregnant. The smoky, sugary scent of vetiver is often used in tranquil aromatherapy to boost your overall mood and calm your nerves. The aroma of this one may smell like the holiday season to you, but it also has all kinds of astringent, digestive, antiseptic, and disinfectant properties. It may prevent oral issues like bad breath, toothaches, cavities, and mouth sores, and one study even suggests it can help improve skin health. Even though this is also derived from a citrus fruit the peel to be exact it has more of a bitter and fresh scent, and is a popular oil to use in a diffuser. Safety Again, similar to lemon, avoid UV rays from the sun when applying topically. Earthy and naturally woody-smelling, cedarwood is used for a number of topical beauty treatments. Studies have shown that these benefits include fighting acne, treating eczema, and reducing dandruff. On top of all this, it also allegedly helps to reduce arthritis and relieve coughing. When you inhale the minty herbal scent of this oil , some evidence has shown that it can relieve IBS symptoms. Likewise, a limited amount of evidence has found that this oil can help with headaches and indigestion. This can help with things like muscle pain and potentially help to increase exercise performance , sunburn relief , and itchy skin conditions like poison ivy or insect bites. So if you need to freshen your breath, just stick to actual mints. This other minty option is quite similar to peppermint in both aroma and benefits, therefore it can be used as an alternative. You will find that spearmint oil has a bit of a sweeter kick to its aroma and has been found to have antifungal properties. It also provides the same cooling effect as peppermint when applied topically, which makes it equally as useful for warding off unwanted insects and relieving bug bites. The essential oil extracted from basil has many topical and internal benefits. You can also add it to hair treatments to get rid of buildup and enhance shine. You probably know this oil by its more commonly used name tea tree oil along with its easy to identify medicinal scent. Safety You should only inhale or apply this oil topically never ingest it. If you do, you could experience digestive issues, hives, or dizziness. Tea tree oil comes in a variety of strengths. This citrusy oil is loaded with antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation, fight against anemia , boost energy levels, and relieve nausea. This lesser-known oil emits a woody scent and is said to help repel bugs and reduce stress.
