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What are Some Essential Oil Benefits?
Essential oil benefits can range from the relief of physical ailments to the treatment of psychological and emotional problems. The benefits of essential oils are often expounded by practitioners of aromatherapy, who largely believe that the scents of essential oils have a profound effect on the mind and body. Essential oils are used topically or orally. Different essential oils typically have different properties.
Topically applied, essential oils usually absorb easily into the body. That's because most essential oils dissolve in fats and alcohol, allowing them to penetrate the skin by dissolving in the body's own fatty tissues. Inhaling the oils may also allow them to penetrate the skin, as droplets of evaporation from the oil can come into contact with the lining of the nasal passages. Some essential oils are commonly taken by mouth.
Many who seek essential oil benefits do so for the sake of physical health. Essential oils are said to have a number of health benefits, including boosting immunity. The essential oil of the tea tree plant, for instance, is said to prevent colds and fungal infections of the skin when applied topically. The essential oil of eucalyptus is said to be effective in treating a number of viruses, including genital and oral herpes, chickenpox, and shingles. The essential oil of cinnamon is considered by many to be a powerful anti-viral agent.
Many types of essential oils offer multiple benefits. Eucalyptus oil, for instance, is also considered an effective treatment for respiratory congestion when inhaled. Peppermint essential oil benefits may include supporting digestion, reducing appetite, and invigorating the body. Rosemary essential oil benefits may include supporting hair and skin health, nervous system wellbeing, circulatory system support, and muscle support. The essential oil of myrrh is said to have anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects.
In addition to the physical benefits of essential oils, there are also believed to be a number of emotional and psychological benefits. Aromatherapists in particular generally believe that the aromas of many essential oils can bring about profound changes in mental and emotional states. The essential oil of lavender has long been prized for its alleged calming properties. Rose essential oil benefits are believed to include mental stimulation and enhanced mood. Valerian essential oil benefits are said to help calm the body and balance the emotions.
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![Essential oil.]()
By: wolfelarryEssential oil. -
![A jar of lotion containing essential oil.]()
By: picsfiveA jar of lotion containing essential oil. -
![Lavender is known to help with relaxation and anxiety relief.]()
By: Kimberly ReinickLavender is known to help with relaxation and anxiety relief. -
![Citrus essential oils are known for their uplifting scent.]()
By: viperagpCitrus essential oils are known for their uplifting scent. -
![Rose oil is believed to enhance mood and stimulate the brain.]()
By: dream79Rose oil is believed to enhance mood and stimulate the brain.
Discussion Comments
I know that some essential oils are taken by mouth for digestive problems or colds. My mother for example, used to take oil of oregano when she had a cold and upset stomach. It's supposed to kill harmful bacteria and treat colds fast. But oil of oregano is very strong and bitter. So in order to drink it, my mother would mix it with sugar and follow up with a glass of milk.
I actually think that it's a bad idea to take essential oils internally. If an essential oil is guaranteed safe for ingestion, one should probably take the smallest amount possible. Essential oils can actually be toxic in some quantities. They can damage the liver. And people who already have liver problems or other health conditions should avoid them because the risks are greater than the benefits for such people.
@serenesurface-- It actually depends on which ailment you want to treat. For example, if you are treating a respiratory condition or if you have an ailment that is benefited by breathing in the essential oil, aromatherapy is best. If you say, have pain in your joints, then topical application is best. So it depends on what the issue is.
I for example, suffer from stress and stress related headaches. I can use essential oils as aromatherapy for relaxation, and also topically on my forehead for pain relief. It works both ways. I use lavender essential oil as aromatherapy before I sleep and also rub some when I have a headache. Of course, I dilute it if I'm going to put it on my skin.
For the most part, manufacturers describe how an essential oil can be and should be used. You should also feel free to call and ask the manufacturer if you're not sure.
I know that essential oils have many benefits. I also know that each oil has a range of ailments that it can improve. But what I would like to know is, are they all equally beneficial when used topically or as aromatherapy? Or is it better to use some of these essential oils in a particular way?
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