Essential Oils for a Healthy Mind and Body

Essential oils have become very popular over the last few years. Many people are motivated to enhance their health through natural methods, improving themselves from the inside out. But what exactly do essential oils do?

Essential oils can be beneficial in fighting off infections, easing aches and pains, improving your mood, increasing energy, fighting insomnia and fatigue, and so much more.

Are you ready to see how essential oils can help improve your quality of life?

What Are Essential Oils?

Essential Oils are strong aromatic oils that come from nature. The concentrated liquid is extracted from specific plants known to have potent fragrances and natural health benefits.

These oils are well-known in the holistic world for their healing properties and calming effects. Those who prefer not to turn to modern practices for specific ailments often use these oils in their place. (Think of it as nature’s medicine.)

What Are Essential Oils Used For?

You can use essential oils for various purposes, from mental health issues to the common cold or flu. Some people choose to use them simply because they enjoy the smells that permeate the room.

To keep things simple: If you have a symptom, there is an essential oil for that.

Immunity Support (Fights off Infections)

If you are struggling with a nasty cold that won’t go away or an infection that doesn’t want to clear up, essential oils can help.

How? Many essential oils have potent antioxidants that have proven to be effective at boosting your immune system, destroying various viruses, bacteria, and fungus infections, and possibly fighting off certain types of cancers.

Some Essential Oils Used for Immune system Support:

  • Lemon grass
  • Peppermint
  • Oregano
  • Eucalyptus
  • Frankincense
  • Cinnamon
  • Ginger

Mood Enhancement (Turn that Frown Upside Down)

It is not surprising that more people are stressed out and depressed now than ever before. According to a study conducted by the Cleveland Clinic, essential oil massages were used on a group of cancer patients in their self-help groups. The results showed that all participants benefited from the aromatherapy. The patients stated they felt calmer and more relaxed, an improvement in coping skills, and increased self-acceptance.

These positive feelings and mood-boosting experiences are not just for those with severe health conditions. Those experiencing these mental health benefits are noted across the board, from overwhelmed celebrities to those struggling with financial issues and even just someone having a rough day.

Some essential oils for mood enhancement:

  • Jasmine
  • Sweet orange
  • Peppermint
  • Rosemary
  • Lavender
  • Ylang-ylang
  • Bergamot

Alleviates Physical Pain (Including migraines)

Nothing is worse than having a nagging pain that won’t go away no matter what you do. If you suffer from chronic aches, pains, migraines, arthritis, etc. There are essential oils you can use to help achieve the relief you are looking for.

Many studies over the years have proven that essential oils (on their own or blended) can provide the same amount of relief as modern medications for discomfort associated with menstrual cramping, kidney stones, migraines, post-surgical pain, nerve disease, osteoarthritis, carpal tunnel, gastrointestinal issues, toothaches, and so much more.

Some essential oils for pain reduction or relief:

  • Lavender: General pain, migraines, inflammation
  • Ginger- general pain, reduces inflammation, cough relief
  • Peppermint and Wintergreen- Muscle pain, migraine, sinus pressure
  • Rose Oil- Menstruation cramps, kidney stones
  • Clove- toothaches and general pain
  • Lemongrass- arthritis, headaches, and migraines
  • Bergamot- Nerve pain, food poisoning, inflammation
  • Eucalyptus- Inflammation, congestion, sore throat

Boost Energy and Helps You Sleep (Not at the same time.)

Essential oils are prevalent among those who have insomnia, chronic fatigue, and lack of energy. Athletes use essential oils to improve their performance and reduce over-exertion or exhaustion.

Some essential oils have the natural ability to stimulate your brain, which will boost your energy levels and even your success in the gym.

On the flip side. If you struggle to wind down at night and just can’t sleep, essential oils can help with that as well. Some essential oils are known for their calming effects and the natural ability to make you sleepy and relaxed.

Essential oils for energy boosts

  • Lemongrass
  • Lemon
  • Rosemary
  • Eucalyptus
  • Grapefruit

Essential oils as a natural sleep aid:

  • Lavender (most popular by far)
  • Chamomile
  • Clary Sage
  • Bergamot
  • Peppermint

We have only scratched the surface of how beneficial essential oils can be to your health and overall well-being. However, this is a good starting point for you to dive in and give each of the options a try.

How to Use Essential Oils (3 Great Ways)

Now that you know what essential oils you need. You are probably wondering exactly how to use them.

Note: You should NEVER put concentrated essential oils directly on your skin. Because these oils are so potent, they are known for causing rashes, irritation, and burns.

Topical (Rub it on Your Skin)- You can buy topical essential oils in a diluted state, whether in oil form or a lotion. Simply rub this into your skin near the target area or all over in a massage.

Inhale it- You can add a few drops into an oil diffuser and let the aroma fill the air you breathe. You can also inhale the oil from the bottle or wear it as perfume or inside a pendant around your neck.

Ingest it– (ONLY SPECIFIC OILS ARE OKAY FOR INTERNAL USE: TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE INGESTING ANY OILS) Essential oils that can be safely ingested can be taken in a capsule, or you can add a few drops to your bottle of water or tea or place under your tongue.

A few essential oils that are safe to ingest include peppermint, spearmint, orange, lemon, and Eucalyptus.

Final Thoughts

Essential oils are nature’s medicine; the earth is gifting you a safe alternative to medication you might not want to take or don’t even work. However, these aromatic miracles are only effective in their purest forms.

If you want to give essential oils a try, make sure you are getting genuine products. Check the label before buying to ensure the oils are pure, coming directly from the plant.