Essential Oils
What exactly are ‘essential oils?
Essential oils are natural oils that have the characteristic smell of the plant/resource it was extracted from. There are 8 groups that essential oils can fall into. It is valuable to know the 8 groups and what kind of oils go into each group because it can aid you in finding one or alternatives that fit your specific needs.
What are the 8 groups?
The first group is Antiseptic Essential oils which are great for disinfection and usually have a very pungent smell. Examples of oils in this group would be Tea Tree and Eucalyptus.
The second group is Citrus Essential Oils which have a very refreshing and stimulating scent. Examples of oils in this category would be Lemon, Lemongrass, Grapefruit. Lime, Orange, and Mandarin.
The third group is the Fresh Essential Oils which also have a very stimulating and refreshing smell. Examples of oils in this group would be Cypress, Pine, Peppermint, and Spearmint.
Our fourth and next group is the Floral Essential Oils and is split into two subsets. Ones that a lighter, more relaxed smell like Lavender, Chamomile, Geranium, Juniper, and Palmarosa. Then ones that have a stronger more fragrant scent like Rose, Jasmine, Rose Otto, Rosewood, and Neroli.
The fifth group is the Herby Essential Oils which includes Basil, Clary Sage, Fennel, Marjoram, Aniseed, Oregano, and Rosemary.
The Spicy Essential Oils are warm and homey smelling. This group includes Black pepper, Cinnamon, Clove, Ginger, and Nutmeg.
The last group is the Earthy Essential Oils which have lovely woodsy smells that come from nature all around us. This includes Ylang Ylang, Cedarwood, Vetiver, and Myrrh.
Particularly Useful Oils
Focus and Concentration - Peppermint
Good Sleep - Lavender, Vetiver, Ruta, and Valerian
Waking Up - Lemon, Rosemary, and Peppermint
Calming Nerves - Lavender, Lime, and Ocotea
Confidence - Black Spruce and Clary Sage
Easy Breathing - Spruce and Cypress
Anxiety - Lavender, Rose, Ylang Ylang, and Chamomile
Benefits Of Essential Oils
Essential Oils are incredibly versatile, they can be used for pest control to making personal care objects that can be used in things like self-care kits. They are often found in luxurious items for skincare and hair growth along with being commonly used in bath bombs. Essential Oils are, in fact, now used commonly in hospitals because its a great, non-invasive way to aid with many medical conditions.
Resources to check out about Essential Oils
https://draxe.com/essential-oils-guide/
https://doterra.com/US/en/what-is-an-essential-oil
https://naha.org/explore-aromatherapy/about-aromatherapy/what-are-essential-oils/
@Idonotthinkanyonecares Great post! I love how you outlined essential oils. I personally use peppermint for nausea, it can't hurt, smells nice, and can be a good distraction. Do you use any oils?
@sunnytea
I wanted to talk about their experiences of using essential oils this year. I have great help here this recipe:
8 drops of jojoba oil
4 drops of ginger essential oil
4 drops of lemon essential oil
Directions: In a clean, dark-colored glass bottle, blend the aromatic oils with jojoba oil. Then add a few drops of the mixture to your aromatherapy diffuser, and mist the atmosphere of your room (source)
Be sure to try this recipe - it is safe and effective
@logansanders
Awesome, thanks for the recipe! :)
I use essential oils most of the time.
@Doglover1991
That's cool. Do you have any favorites?
This is prob a stupid question- but how does one use them? Massage into skin? Put into Tea? Use as Potpourri?
@ChromeLotus
Sniff and rub on your pressure points
@Idonotthinkanyonecares
awesome post , thank you for sharing
great post!
Thanks so much!
I use oils daily to help with my moods.
Mix them myself according to what I am desiring - mood or what not....
current oil : letting go oil :
base oil: sweet almond
sweet orange oil
lime oil
geranium oil
patchuli oil
ylan ylang oil
rose otto
(flower oils):
honeysuckle
willow
star of bethlehem
* amazing oil to let go of that which holds you back<3 Really helps you movr forward and feel better too <3