Five Ways to Use Essential Oils at Home
Essential oils are a beautiful gift from nature. In a previous blog I looked at what essential oils are and here I share some practical uses for introducing essential oils into your life.
Essential oils are very concentrated so the rule being less is more. Undiluted essential oils should not be used on the skin.
Treat these wonderful oils with respect and you will enjoy many benefits of incorporating them into your life.
Bathing
One of the easiest and most pleasurable ways of using essential oils is at bath time. Try adding 5 to 10 drops of your chosen oil to the bath water when the tub is full.
Traditionally aromatic bathing has been used to treat a wide range of complaints including skin conditions, muscular aches and pains, rheumatism and arthritis.
Rosemary or pine can help soothe aching limbs and chamomile or lavender can help to relieve stress related conditions such as anxiety.
Improve Sleep
Sleep is something we all struggle with at some point whether it is quantity or quality or a combination of both. The key here is to prepare your body for sleep by relaxing before bedtime.
Lavender essential oil is the classic choice for relaxation and it is a great one to use in your bedroom to create a haven for winding down after a busy day. Try vaporising the oil in an aromatic diffuser to scent the room and help you drift off more easily.
Headache and Migraine Relief
A drop of both lavender and peppermint essential oil added to a carrier oil can bring welcome relief for a headache or migraine when applied to the temples. Lavender is a natural pain reliever and peppermint can help to relax and ease tension headaches.
Natural Insect Repellent
Citronella essential oil is a great choice to keep those little pests at bay. It has been a popular remedy against mosquito bites for many years prior to the introduction of modern insecticides. Combine one or two drops of the oil in a carrier oil such as olive oil or sweet almond oil and apply to any exposed areas of skin.
Natural Cleaner
The most powerful essential oil for cleaning is tea tree with its antiseptic, antiviral, bactericidal and fungicidal properties. As it is an overpowering fragrance on its own it is best combined with another essential oil such as lemon. Scientific studies have shown the antibacterial actions of tea tree and its promise in inhibiting certain viruses. For a simple cleaner combine a few drops of each essential oil with distilled white vinegar and use in a spray bottle.
Important
Please remember that essential oils are very concentrated and powerful oils and should not be used at home to treat serious medical or psychological conditions. If you are pregnant it is always a good idea to talk to your doctor or midwife before using essential oils.
