Essential Oils 101

essential oils 101

I’ve always loved the scent of essential oils, especially during spa visits, massages and after my neck adjustments. My chiropractor sometimes rubs a bit of peppermint on my neck and it feels so soothing. However, prior to finding alternative ways to deal with my chronic pain issue, I never really understood the full benefits of essential oils.

Even though essential oils have been around for thousands of years, the amount of options can be really intimidating. I always played it safe with lavender or chamomile until a friend of mine, who works for Young Living Essential Oils, stopped by to give me a 101 and an intro their starter kit, which I photographed below. 

essential oils 101

Would you like a 101 as well? Here are a few things to know about the benefits of essential oils:

First, let’s briefly go over what they are. Essential oils are highly concentrated aromatic liquids found in plants (roots, flowers, seeds, bark). The oils are taken from the plant through a process called distillation, which results in a fragrant oil filled with healing properties. 

To get the full benefits, it’s important to buy pure, therapeutic-grade quality. You don’t want it mixed with alcohol and other chemicals. 

How are they used? 

Aromatherapy

Don’t you just love going to a spa and inhaling the soothing scent of lavender or chamomile? The aromatic properties of essential oils stimulate the senses affecting our mood. You can apply the oils on your hands, body or use a diffuser. I keep one in the living room so that we can all enjoy the benefits. Right now, Thieves is on repeat. It’s a powerfully rich and spicy aroma combined with clove, lemon, cinnamon, eucalyptus radiata and rosemary. It’s perfect for this time of year. 

Topical application

Like I said at the beginning of this post, my chiropractor applies peppermint to my neck after she adjusts it. She says it helps the brain take its focus away from the soreness. In fact, it is used quite often for sore muscles because of its cooling and calming effect. It is known for being a natural painkiller and muscle relaxant. 

You can also ingest them but I would be sire to carefully read the label to make sure you can. 

essential oils 101

If you’re not sure where to start, here are 5 you should definitely have on hand: 

Lavender – Many of my fellow TMJ sufferers swear by lavender oil. They apply it to their jaw joints before bed. It’s known to promote better sleep, reduce inflammation and decrease anxiety. 

Peppermint – You already know why I love peppermint oil but did you know that it can also boost your energy level and improve focus? It’s a great one to apply or drop into your diffuser during work hours, especially when that mid-day fatigue hits. 

Lemon – This is another good one to have handy as a pick-me-up. You can also use it to clean!

Chamomile – Who doesn’t love chamomile tea? lotion? body wash? I mean, it’s a staple in my house especially the essential oil. When you need to take a breather, rub a few drops on your temples and relax. 

Frankincense – This essential oil is used for everything from pms to digestion. It is even used topically to reduce scars. This is a great one to have in your beginners collection as well. 

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