8 Types of Essential Oils And How To Use Them

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Essential oils are popular for their potential health benefits and versatile uses. Derived from plants, these concentrated oils possess distinct aromatic properties and can be utilized for various purposes, including promoting relaxation, alleviating discomfort, and enhancing overall well-being.

If you are dealing with conditions like stress, nasal congestion, or even acne, chances are one of these essential oils will help if you use them properly.

1. Lavender Oil

Lavender oil promotes relaxation and stress relief. Many notice that it calms them without any of the sedating properties of benzodiazepines and other anti-anxiety medications. You can add a few drops of lavender oil to a diffuser to promote peace in your home. You can also mix it with a carrier oil and apply it to your temples or pulse points for a calming effect. Some people even add a few drops of lavender to their bathwater for a soothing soak.

Essential Oils Lavender Oil
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Beyond its calming effects, lavender oil is a diuretic and can help with digestion issues. For this, you should combine lavender oil with coconut or olive oil and rub it on the stomach to relieve digestive disorders. You can also add a few drops of lavender oil to your bath water to ease stomach pain.

2. Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus oil can ease respiratory congestion and silence coughs. If you are dealing with a cold, allergies, or an upper respiratory infection, add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to hot water and inhale the steam. You can also mix it with a carrier oil and apply it to the chest and throat to promote clearer breathing.

3. Peppermint Oil

Like lavender oil, peppermint oil is another herbal remedy that aids digestion. It helps the muscles of your bowel wall relax and relieve stomach cramps or flatulence. You can dilute peppermint oil with a carrier oil and massage it onto the abdomen in a clockwise motion.

Peppermint oil is also an excellent solution for frequent headaches and migraine attacks. Because peppermint oil contains menthol, it can help ease tension and relax muscles. To alleviate headaches, apply a few drops of peppermint mixed with a carrier oil to the temples or back of the neck.

4. Lemon Oil

Essential Oils Lemon Oil
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Lemon oil energizes the body and uplifts your mood. All you need to do is add a few drops of lemon oil to a diffuser to create an invigorating atmosphere. You can also add a few drops of lemon oil to an essential oil diffuser bracelet and wear it for a mood boost.

5. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil possesses antibacterial and antifungal properties. This makes it an outstanding natural hand sanitizer and antiseptic for minor cuts and scrapes. To use it for either of these purposes, simply dilute your tea tree oil with a carrier oil and apply it topically.

You can also use tea tree oil to combat dandruff or soothe an itchy scalp. If you wish to use it for this purpose, add a few drops to your shampoo or purchase a specially-formulated shampoo for your hair type that already contains tea tree oil as an ingredient.

6. Frankincense Oil

Frankincense oil can help with various health conditions, including inflammation and sleep issues. If you want to take advantage of its anti-inflammatory properties, mix with a carrier oil and apply to your skin. Otherwise, you can diffuse frankincense oil using a diffuser or essential oil burner.

7. Clary Sage Oil

Clary sage oil can help lower blood pressure. It can also help with eye health and vision.

You can use clary sage oil in several ways, including in an essential oil diffuser or orally. If you want to diffuse it, put it in your diffuser with the recommended amount of water. If you prefer to ingest it, add a drop or two to your tea or a smoothie once daily.

8. Sandalwood Oil

Sandalwood oil is an excellent natural remedy for skin conditions like acne, eczema, or psoriasis. It should never be applied directly to your skin on its own, so always mix it with a carrier oil or dilute it in some other way. Once you do, you can apply it to the affected area for relief.

Essential Oils Sandalwood Oil
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If you have never used sandalwood oil before, be careful. Some people can experience allergic reactions, which will counteract your attempts to clear up your skin. When in doubt, consult a dermatologist before using this essential oil.

Take Care of Your Body and Mind With Natural Elements

Essential oils are a great way to care for your body and mind naturally. They are derived from naturally occurring plants and earth elements and rarely contain chemicals or other artificial ingredients. This makes them a perfect homeopathic health aid.

You can also combine essential oils with other healthy lifestyle changes to improve your physical and mental health.

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Megan Glosson

Megan Glosson is a passionate writer based in Nashville, TN. She enjoys writing about topics related to health, wellness, and everyday life, especially when the topic has a personal connection to her own life. Megan is currently published on over a dozen websites, including YourTango, Feel & Thrive, Moms.com, and The Mighty. Megan also serves as a content editor for Unwritten, a digital publication focused on millennial lifestyles.