Essential oils are something that have played a role in my life ever since I was little and honestly were something I used to find really weird and "hippyish." For a long time I had really weird recollections and experiences of them which deterred me from enjoying all essential oils have to offer. Apparently, as a small child, I thought they smelled really weird and these memories were usually paired with being forced to attend yoga classes, old people, and some really funky birthday gifts. It is funny to look back on small child me because I love yoga now and appreciate what it does for my mind and body. Likewise, I love and preach essential oils to friends and family now. Unfortunately, I find the funky gifts I received as a child to still be super weird. Sorry, not sorry! But seriously, it's right in the name. Essential oils. They are essential.
1. Essential oils are great for cleaning
Essential oils are actually full of fungus, bacteria and virus-fighting properties that can help ward off illnesses or just freshen up a living space. Not only does it make the room smell good and fresh, it literally helps clean the air. Just throw it in a diffuser and clean away.
*Great oils for this are rosemary, lemon, frankincense or tea tree.
2. Great natural deterrent for insect repellent
Bugs also don't like certain essential oils. Which sounds and smells better than most marketed bug sprays. And it probably tastes better because let's be honest, we have all accidentally inhaled bug spray and it's horrible. It is also a super safe option for young children because it is all natural!
*Dilute with water with a blend of oils like lemongrass, clove, rosemary, or peppermint.
3. Can be used to relieve pain
Essential oils can be used as anti-inflammatories for joint pain, muscle aches, or headaches. I've used it for my headaches before by just rubbing some on my temples and neck. It can also be mixed with lotions and used for massaging out sore body parts.
*A combination lotion and oils such as lavender, bergamot, and chamomile, peppermint, eucalyptus, and rosemary would be a great choice.
4. They increase cognition and brain performance
Some oils are proven to enhance memory and increase awareness. I personally like to use some oils to help me focus while studying or reading, or when I'm just feeling like my brain is all over the place.
*Some of my favorites, but not limited to, are rosemary, lavender, lemongrass, peppermint, and frankincense.
5. Essential oils improve sleep
For me, this has probably been the most important reason for using essential oils. I love diffusing oils while sleeping. Essential oils are known for their calming effects and can positively impact the quality of sleep.
*Lavender and chamomile are great to diffuse during sleep.
6. They improve your mood
Sometimes you might be sluggish, cranky, or moody. Essential oils are a great remedy for a little pick-me-up during these tough days. A little essential oil diffusing to get you through those afternoon classes or the rest of the workday might be exactly what you need.
*Try diffusing lemongrass, orange, or vanilla.
7. They can help ease congestion and swelling
Essential oils are great for getting through cold season. Stuffy noses, coughs, and sore throats suck. Diffusing some minty or eucalyptus oils in the air can help clear your airways and reduce throat inflammation.
*Feeling sick? Diffuse spearmint, peppermint, or eucalyptus. Or mix them all together. Also, throw a few drops in a hot bath. Eucalyptus + steam = being able to smell again!
8. Great for relaxing
Life is stressful. Not only do some oils do great things like reduce heart rate and high blood pressure, but also to diffuse those oils means I am taking some time for myself for self-reflection and to unwind.
*If you are feeling anxious, stressed or down, try diffusing lavender, chamomile, or frankincense.
If you feel like you are needing a booster or a change in your life, try essential oils. It is such a tiny bottle, but it can produce a lot of good. And if you are using essential oils, try some new combinations! These are a lot of my personal preferences and scents that work best for me. Essential oils are by no means the cure-all to life's problems, but they can help ease the hardships. One huge takeaway is that essential oils have reminded me to take time for myself. I fully believe in the power of oils and how they help me, but I also believe that half the battle is usually me. Lavender might help me relax and destress but diffusing lavender while I do a little bit of yoga, read a good book, or write in my journal is also great medicine. So whether essential oils are for you or not, take time for yourself. Decompress. Reflect. Take care of yourself! I promise you will find yourself happier this way!
Editor's note: The views expressed in this article are not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
