Things Essential Oils Really Can Do

Essential Oils are currently the craze. Google searches for “essential oils” have nearly tripled in the past few years. Everybody has a friend, aunt or sister that swears by the oils, claiming they can help any and every ailment. Some of these claims ring true, while others have no grounds and no research to support them. While they’re not a “magic potion” that can cure cancer, ADHD, or destroy viruses, they do have a lot of health benefits and have been used for thousands of years. So what are things that essential oils actually can do? Read below for the four “must-have” essential oils, and what they can do for you.

Lavender

The world lavender comes from the Latin word “lavare,” which translates to “to wash.” Romans, Greeks and Persians used the lavender flowers in their bathwater to relax and to purify their skin. It does have antibacterial properties, and is often used in skin care or home cleaning. Lavender is a natural mood booster, and is effective in reducing anxiety. It can also help you relax, and can be especially helpful for those who have a hard time sleeping. It is also a flavor enhancer, and you can add it to your cooking to naturally boost the flavor.

Peppermint

Peppermint is most commonly used in dental care. Many toothpastes are mint flavored, as well as gum, mouthwash and, of course, mints. The flavor of peppermint will clean the palate, leaving the mouth feeling clean and refreshed. Peppermint oil is also known for easing tension headaches. Many people experience relief when peppermint oil is diluted and rubbed along the temples and forehead. The harsh fumes from peppermint oil are also effective in keeping rodents and bugs at bay. Peppermint oil can also help with indigestion. A study conducted in 2011 published in Pain showed that peppermint can activate an anti-pain channel in the colon, called TRPM8. However, peppermint is not helpful when it comes to heartburn, as it can relax the muscles that close off the esophagus and stomach, and can make heartburn worse.

Lemon

Lemon also has natural antibacterial properties, and that is why many cleaners use lemon in their formula. It is also a natural odor eliminator, and can be used to clean garbage disposals and cutting boards, especially after using them for onions or garlic. It can be used as a furniture polish, although, you should always test the oil in a small, discreet location before rubbing it all over your wood. Lemons also prevent other fruit from browning, and little bit of lemon sprinkled on your bananas and apples will keep them fresh longer. Lemon is also a natural mood booster, and some studies show that it can reduce stress. Lemon oil can also quickly remove crayon from the wall. A caution for lemon: it should not be used on the skin, especially the face, as the pH is very different than the pH of your skin and can damage the outer protective barrier.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil, or Melaleuca alternifolia, is oil that comes from the leaves of the tea tree, or the Melaleuca tree. The tree is native to Australia, and many primitive communities used the tree to treat many health conditions. It has been known to help with infections such as acne, athlete’s foot, and cuts and abrasions. You can use it to fresh up your laundry, or as a insect repellant. There have also been a few claims that it was the only thing that helped get rid of lice (although this claim is not widely supported, it wouldn’t hurt to try to get rid of those nasty pests)! However, tea tree oil is toxic and you should never ingest it.

While essential oils are great and have many benefits, be careful when it comes using them in the home. Tea tree oil is toxic, and you should never ingest it. Other oils need to be diluted Do your research and be careful when you hear promises from essential oil companies and consult with your doctor when it comes to major health considerations. They are more educated on health care than you are, and may know something you do not. In fact, a lot of traditional herbs and medicine have been used to create modern medicine. For example, you could go out and take willow tree bark to help your headache, or you could take an aspirin. While they are made of the same materials, aspirin is easier to take and contains a more concentrated dose.

Another benefit of peppermint oil according to this blog is that it can kill bacteria that leads to tooth decay, and is a great anti-inflammatory.

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