Essential
oils are the highly
concentrated subtle, volatile
liquids that are distilled from plants, shrubs, flowers, trees, bushes and
seeds. Essential oils contain the true essence of
the plant it was derived from. Science
is now re-discovering and acknowledging the incredible healing power of
essential oils, which are the life blood of the plant.
Essential
oils are used for various reasons including meditation, yoga, stress relief
and as a preventative medicine to prevent colds, the flu and other ailments.
Essential oils are wonderful for those wishing to practice natural health for
their holistic well being by using all natural products.
Essential oils are not to be confused with
perfume or fragrance oils. Essential oils are derived from plants
while perfume oils are artificially created fragrances or contain artificial
substances and do not offer the therapeutic benefits that essential oils
offer.
Additionally,
there are numerous companies that claim their products are Aromatherapy
candles, soaps, bath products etc. Don't be fooled, the majority of these
products are not therapeutic aromatherapy. They may make you smell good, but
they will not offer the therapeutic, healing benefits of aromatherapy.
Top
10 Essential Oils
Eucalyptus,
Eucalyptus globulus or Eucalyptus radiata: Helpful in treating respiratory
problems, such as coughs, colds, and asthma. Also helps to boost the immune
system, and relieve muscle tension.
Ylang Ylang,
Cananga odorata: Helps one to relax, and can reduce muscle tension. Good
antidepressant.
Geranium,
Pelargonium graveolens: Helps to balance hormones in women, good for balancing
the skin. Can be both relaxing and uplifting, as well as antidepressant.
Peppermint,
Mentha piperita: Useful in treating headaches, muscle aches, digestive
disorders such as slow digestion, indigestion, and flatulence.
Lavender,
Lavandula angustifolia: Relaxing, and also useful in treating wounds, burns,
and skin care.
Lemon,
Citrus limon: Very uplifting, yet relaxing. Helpful in treating wounds,
infections, and house cleaning and deodorizing.
Clary Sage,
Salvia sclarea: Natural pain killer, helpful in treating muscular aches and
pains. Very relaxing, and can help with insomnia. Also very helpful in
balancing hormones.
Tea Tree,
Melaleuca alternifolia: A natural anti fungal oil, good for treating all sorts
of fungal infections including vaginal yeast infections, jock itch, athletes
foot, and ringworm. Also helps to boost the immune system.
Roman Chamomile,
Anthemus nobilis: Very relaxing, and can help with sleeplessness and anxiety.
Also good for muscle aches and tension. Useful in treating wounds and
infection.
Rosemary,
Rosmarinus officinalis: Very stimulating and uplifting, good to help mental
stimulation as well as to stimulate the immune system. Very good for muscle
aches and tension. Stimulating to the digestive system.