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Health Benefits of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy

Posted on by Paula Gallagher

lavender-fieldThe health benefits of essential oils are many, including aromatherapy, which is the use of essential oils from plants to promote a feeling of well-being. Although scent is a key component in the use of essential oils, some of them can also be applied directly to the skin for use in healing or in a massage, or used for other direct health benefits. Essential oils are concentrated extracts taken from the roots, leaves, seeds or blossoms of plants. Each contains its own mix of active ingredients, and this mix determines what the oil is used for. Some oils are used to promote physical healing – for example, to treat swelling or fungal infections. Others are used for their emotional value – they may enhance relaxation, or just make a room smell pleasant. At Village Green we carry essential oils from Plant Therapy, NOW and Aromaland. Diffusers are a convenient and safe way to use essential oils, and they have become increasingly popular. People are using them to improve health, increase energy, even to sleep better. We carry several Sparoom diffusers that are convenient and attractive, and personally, I think they would make very nice gifts. What I like most about aromatherapy is that anyone can benefit from it, and essential oils are easy to use. In particular, I think that everyone should have an aromatherapy kit that contains these three essential oils. 1. Lavender oil: Mostly used in perfumes or to add fragrant scent to linens, it also has many therapeutic benefits. Lavender essential oil has a calming scent which makes it an excellent tonic for the nerves, so it's great for stress, insomnia and anxiety. Place 5 drops in a small spray bottle with water and spray your linens before bed, for a restful sleep. 2. Tea tree oil: I know it is not going to win in the perfume stakes, but tea tree is antibiotic, antiviral, antiseptic, antifungal and also an insecticide. I have used this personally in a shampoo to deter fleas and ticks on our dog. I have also used a drop in shampoo to help with children’s cradle cap. 3. Eucalyptus oil: The health benefits of eucalyptus oil can be attributed to its anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, decongestant, deodorant, antiseptic and antibacterial properties. If you are congested, a couple of drops in a humidifier or a bath can help open up the sinuses and enhance breathing. With Valentine's Day around the corner, the following combinations from NOW are perfect ways to add some sweetness or romance to your day. Love is in the Air Add the following oils to a diffuser: 1 drop patchouli oil 3 drops jasmine oil 5 drops geranium oil Sweet Romance Add the following oils to a diffuser: 2 drops cedarwood oil 2 drops clary sage oil 7 drops vanilla oil 1 drop orange oil Botanical Bliss Add the following oils to a diffuser: 5 drops rose oil 2 drops ylang ylang oil Note: Natural essential oils are highly concentrated and should be used with care. Only diffuse essential oils in a well-ventilated area. For adults only. Keep out of reach of children. Not for internal use. Avoid contact with eyes. If pregnant/nursing, consult your healthcare practitioner before using. Not intended for use with pets. Essential oils blended with carrier oils may clog diffusers; please clean thoroughly after each use. (NOW) Photo from here, with thanks.
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