A Beginner’s Guide to Essential Oils: Benefits & Uses

Now that we own a working farm, I’m learning so much about the many gifts nature provides. One of those gifts is Essential Oils! They are used in many organic products and enjoyed in several ways. Because they are so versatile, it can feel overwhelming to try them. So, I put together A Beginner’s Guide to Essential Oils with their benefits and uses.

Benefits and Uses of Essential Oils

Essential Oils have been around for thousands of years and date back to Ancient Egypt. They were used in perfumes, ointments, and even medicines. Extracted from plants, they are known to curb several phytopathogens and human pathogens. Some show antimicrobial effects as well. Here are the most common reasons essential oils are utilized today:

• Headache Relief
• Energy and Mental Clarity
• Stress and Anxiety Relief
• Improved Sleep
• Nausea & Inflammation Relief
• Mood Boost
• Skin Improvement
• Antibacterial and Cleaning

A Beginner’s Guide to Essential Oils

There are probably 50 ways to use essential oils! However, I’m only diving into my five favorites to keep it simple. First, essential oils should not be used on bare skin unless they are pre-diluted. They are highly concentrated, and just a few drops can cause irritation. So, you will need to purchase a carrier oil if you plan to use them in this way. Personally, I like coconut, argan, or jojoba oils. Carrier oils allow you to cover a large amount of your skin by diluting the essential oils. They also keep them from quickly evaporating, so you can enjoy their effects for a longer period of time.

Aromatherapy

One way to effectively use essential oils is aromatherapy. In this case, they help with relaxation, sleep and stress relief, and can improve your mood. Different oils have different aromas, and inhaling these scents can positively effect our well-being and mental clarity. For example, try lavender, sandalwood, or eucalyptus oils to relieve stress. For energy and clarity, peppermint or lemongrass are better options.

You can also diffuse essential oils with a diffuser or add drops to a cotton ball and breathe in the aroma. Using a carrier oil, rub a few drops on the palm of your hands and cup them around your nose and mouth as well. Again, essential oils are very potent, so be sure to read the labels before use.

Bathing

Oils such as chamomile and ylang-ylang are known for their calming effects. Perfect for a warm bath, just add a few drops into your water to release the scent of the oils. Additionally, when using essential oils in bath water, it’s best to mix them in once the bath is full. This will prevent the oils from evaporating too quickly so you can relax for longer. I really love the Relax and Unwind oils from this Woolzies Stress Free Collection! They are pre-diluted, so they’re ready to add right to the bath.

If you need cold and flu relief, take a warm bath with essential oils like peppermint, tea tree, or lemon. The steam from the water aids with congestion and may make it easier for you to breathe. After a hard workout, you may want to consider rosemary or ginger oils rich with anti-inflammatory properties.

Beginner’s Guide: Direct Application

The direct application method can be used for targeted purposes such as treating skin conditions, insect bites, or muscle aches. You must use a carrier oil if you’re going to try this method. Especially if you already have sensitive skin. It’s best to perform a small patch test before going all-in with your face or body.

Direct Application Uses:

• Feeling Tense:  try using diluted lavender essential oil on your temples.
• Headaches:  peppermint oil has been known to work wonders!
• Face & Body Moisturizer:  plumeria and frankincense are great essential oils to try.
• Acne Relief:  tea tree or lavender oils have been known to help reduce inflammation and breakouts due to their antimicrobial properties.
• Bug Bites:  basil or cinnamon (camphor) oils may provide natural relief.

Massage

If you’re stressed, a massage with essential oils is for you! Massage allows the oils to absorb through the skin directly for relaxation and tension relief. Frankincense, bergamot, and lavender are often used in massage applications to improve mood and release feelings of depression.

Also, studies find that oils can help ease menopausal symptoms and menstrual cramps. Coriander oil reduces cramps in both muscles and the throat, which causes coughing. Secondly, it also promotes healthy digestive and circulatory systems. Geranium oil is another one that aids with menopause and cramps, improves circulation, and soothes the nervous system. Overall, essential oils are a great natural alternative for some aches and pains, and you get a massage out of it. Win-win!

Cleaning

Recently, I’ve been trying to reduce the amount of chemicals that I use in my home. Tea tree, lemon, and other essential oils have natural antimicrobial traits and can be used in homemade cleaning solutions. Mix a few drops with water, vinegar, or both for a pleasant-smelling cleaner. Generally, this effective cleaning solution is way less toxic when compared to the harsh chemicals of others.

I like to use orange and lemon essential oils for a great all-purpose cleaner. My current recipe is:

Above all, there is nothing like an essential oils bath or massage after a long day! These potent little drops go a long way and have so many options for use. And, once you get the hang of the different applications, there’s really nothing to be scared about. Check out my favorite essential oils collections here and let me know if you try them! What’s your favorite oils to use?

XOXO,