What are essential oils?
Essential oils have been used for thousands of years in ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, traditional Chinese culture, Vedic Indian culture, and in the Roman Empire. The oils were used in different religious and ceremonial rituals symbolizing purification and used in healing therapies.
These oils are highly concentrated aromatic extracts that come from various parts of a plant. These oils are most commonly steam distilled, but can also be expressed (cold pressed), percolated, extracted with a solvent, or extracted in a number of other ways. These potent oils are used in aromatherapy and often used in many other holistic healing modalities. But knowing how to use them properly is key in getting the most out of your oils..
How to Use Essential Oils
Essential oils are extremely versatile in the ways they can be used. They are wonderful when diffused in a diffuser around the home and can be used for many different parts of your day -- working/studying: rosemary for focus; preparing for bed: Lavender for relaxation; cleansing a room: Tea Tree to kill germs; the possibilities are endless! -- You can make your own room spray, use them topically in a carrier oil, add a few drops to a bath, do a steam inhalation, use in hair care and massages, and of course, in perfumes!
**It is important to remember how concentrated essential oils are when using them. They are quite strong and they also can be quite dangerous is they are not used in the correct manner. Here are some solid pointers on the dos and don'ts of essential oils:
Why Use Essential Oils?
Essential oils are used to enhance the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health of individuals. Using these oils is a magnificent way to help the body heal from a number of different issues including:
- Stress and Anxiety
- Headaches and migraines
- Insomnia
- Musculoskeletal problems
- Respiratory and sinus problems
- Hormonal Problems
- Arthritis and rheumatism
- Skin problems
- Chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, and other chronic circumstances