How do essential oils work?

Essential oils are most commonly used in the practice of aromatherapy, in which they are inhaled through various methods.

Essential oils are not meant to be swallowed.

The chemicals in essential oils can interact with your body in several ways.

Essential oils can be inhaled or diluted and applied to the skin. They may stimulate your sense of smell or have medicinal effects when absorbed.

What is Aromatherapy:

Aromatherapy is a holistic healing treatment that uses natural plant extracts to promote health and well-being. Sometimes it’s called essential oil therapy. Aromatherapy uses aromatic essential oils medicinally to improve the health of the body, mind, and spirit. It enhances both physical and emotional health.

Here’s a list of 10 popular essential oils and the health claims associated with them:

• Peppermint: This oil may help anger, arthritis, colic, depression, fatigue, food poisoning, headaches, hives, hysteria, inflammation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), liver problems, memory, morning sickness, nerves (regenerate and support), radiation exposure, rheumatism, elevate and open sensory system, soothe and cool skin (may help keep body cooler on hot days), toothaches, tuberculosis, and add flavor to water.

• Lavender: used to relieve stress It promotes consciousness, health, love, peace and a general sense of well-being.

• Rosemary: This oil may help arteriosclerosis, bronchitis, chills, colds, colitis, cystitis, dyspepsia, nervous exhaustion, flu, oily hair, the immune system (stimulate), otitis, palpitations, prevent respiratory infections, sinusitis, sour stomach, stress-related illness. Note: This chemotype is said to be best used for pulmonary congestion, slow elimination, candida, chronic fatigue, and infections (especially staph and strep).

SUMMARY

Aromatherapy isn’t the only use for essential oils. They can be used in and around the home, as a natural mosquito repellent, or industrially to make cosmetics.

Safety and side effects

Just because something is natural doesn’t mean it’s safe.

Plants and herbal products contain many bioactive compounds that may harm your health, and essential oils are no different.

However, when inhaled or combined with a base oil for use on your skin, most essential oils are considered safe. Be sure to consider others in your environment who might be inhaling the aroma, including pregnant women, children, and pets.

Nevertheless, they may cause some side effects, including

• rashes
• asthma attacks
• headaches
• allergic reactions