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People have different methods of seeking and maintaining good health. Some go to the gym, others eat well, and a select number of people use essential oils. If you don’t know much about essential oils then it’s time to learn the basics and how oils positively influence the body inside and out.
Alter the Nervous System
Aromatherapy is associated with the effect of oils on the internals of the body. Aromas penetrate the bloodstream, affecting the brain’s limbic system. The limbic system controls memories and emotions. Moreover, essential oils have antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral qualities.
Scents can influence the biochemistry of the nervous system. A Japanese study found particular oils stimulate sympathetic nervous system activity while others calm it. The sympathetic nervous system influences heart rate, blood vessel constriction, and blood pressure.
Experimenters found that rose and patchouli oil resulted in a 40% decrease in sympathetic nervous system activity. Pepper oil induced an increase in plasma adrenaline concentration.
Lighten Moods
Essential oils influence moods. A Korean study found that lavender reduced insomnia in female college students. Another study found that orally administered lavender was effective in treating anxiety disorders. Moreover, research concludes jasmine can lighten moods and counter feelings of depression.
Use a Medley of Oils for Common Maladies
A range of oils are used as alternative ways to cure common maladies. Some oils serve multiple purposes.
- Lavender, lemon, peppermint, and pine lower stress.
- Lavender, chamomile, jasmine, rose, and sandalwood treat insomnia.
- Bergamot, rose, clary sage, lemon, orange, and sandalwood curb anxiety.
- Green apple, rosemary, peppermint, juniper, and eucalyptus help with headaches.
- Mint, ginger, lemon, orange, fennel, and chamomile curb feelings of nausea.
- Lavender, rosemary, peppermint, juniper, eucalyptus, and clary sage help with pain.
Learn more at thealternativedaily.com.
Use Essential Oils in a Range of Ways
You don’t have to inhale essential oils to get the effects. You can massage oils into the skin; add oils to bathwater; dab oils on hot compresses; heat oils in a diffuser; and, rub oils on pulse points. Leverage methods that are most convenient and elicit the most benefits for you.
Make Deodorizers and Cleaning Supplies
Some people don’t like the harsh chemicals in cleaning products. Whether you want to protect pets, small children, or be kinder to the environment, you can save money and use essential oils as deodorizers and cleaning supplies. Add a few drops of lavender or tea tree oil to baking soda to make a cleaning scrub. Add a few drops of your favorite smelling essential oil to water in a spray bottle for an alternative to store-bought deodorizers.
Do Away with Dryer Sheets
Dryer sheets are expensive and toxic. The average sheet emits more than 600 volatile organic compounds through the dryer vent. Do away with sheets and add a few drops of essential oils to wet laundry before placing clothes in the dryer. You can also place a few dabs on an old sock and use it as a ‘dryer sheet,’ which is just as effective but safer for you and the environment.
Clean the Pores
Teens and adults clean pores with store-bought products, yet some make cases of acne worse or inspire allergic reactions. Rather than spend money on store products, deep clean pores with a few drops of lavender or eucalyptus mixed with hot water. Dabbing these oils in a sink filled with steaming water will help clear nasal passageways. Alternatively, dab the oils on the floor while taking a steamy shower. The created steam mixed with the oils will clear airways and clean pores. Furthermore, tea tree oil helps dry pimples. Lastly, make your own facial toner with a few drops of oil and distilled water.
Make Insect Repellent
Depending on your location and time of year, the amount and activity of insects can take away from your enjoyment. Soak peppermint oil in cotton balls and leave them in your immediate area, or rub the oil onto your skin. Alternatively, try cinnamon leaf oil to kill mosquitoes. You may have seen citronella candles sold to deter insects, but you can create the same effect by rubbing citronella oil on your skin.
Now you know some basic uses for an array of essential oils. Oils can be used to treat major maladies such as anxiety and depression as well as target headaches and stuffy noses. Moreover, you can replace a number of costly and otherwise unhealthy cleaning products. Start enlisting oils as you save money, get healthier, and treat a number of major and minor ailments.
Rosie Matthews has been involved in holistic medicine most of her life. She likes to live simply, and as close to nature as possible in this modern world. She writes about essential oils, herbs and natural treatments for a growing online audience.