Essential oils are compounds that come from plants, seeds, or bark. The compounds are typically distilled and concentrated to unlock dozens of healing properties. For thousands of years, ancient cultures have used oils for health, meditation, relaxation, and beauty purposes. You too can glow using the healing and cleansing abilities of oils.
Using Essential Oils
Before purchasing oils, you’ll want to make sure they are the highest quality. Therapeutic grade is typically the standard for the essential oil industry. That means the oil is approved for use topically and you are able to ingest it. doTERRA is a great brand that also offers a lot of oil education.
Here are the most common ways to use oils:
Aromatherapy - Breathe it in. Add oil to a diffuser (either electric or candle) or add a few drops to a spray bottle and dilute with water to create your own mist.
Topical - Mix a few drops with a carrier oil (like grape seed, jojoba, or fractionated coconut oil) and apply directly to your skin.
Ingest - Mixing oils with teas, liquids, or even in foods it a way to get the benefits.
Around the House - Not just for internal health, you can use many oils for cleaning.
Every “body” is different. Oils may have more mild or pronounced effects depending on your diet, exercise, stress, and toxin levels. Start by using a small amount, and then add more once you feel comfortable with the results. Remember, since essential oils are a concentrated form, a little goes a long way.
Gloguide to Oils:
There are dozens of oils, and even more combinations. Where do you start? Here’s are the essentials:
Lavender - Most commonly used for stress and headache relief and meditation, who doesn’t need more of that?
Peppermint - Helps with focus, respiratory functions, natural anti-microbial, and can soothe sore muscles
Eucalyptus - Helps clear the mind and breathing. One step closer to being a koala...
Tea Tree (Melaleuca) - You name it, tea tree oil can cure it! Acne, bad breath, cold sores, some bacterial and fungal infections (always seek a doctor’s opinion first), and more!
Lemon - Antibacterial and anti-fungal properties make it great for cleaning. It’s also a great mood and energy booster.
These are just a few of hundreds of oils and oil combinations. I also recommend Dr. Axe’s website of all things oil!
