Over the last several years, there has been a lot of talk about natural essential oils. These oils are the compounds that have been extracted from plants, and they capture the scent of the plant. There are a few ways that the oils can be extracted from the plant, such as a distilling process. These oils can also be extracted mechanically. When the chemicals have been extracted from the plant, they need to be mixed with what is known as a carrier oil, which produces the essential oil.
How Do Essential Oils Work?
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These oils are not designed to be swallowed, and they can actually be harmful. There are a few ways that the oils can be delivered to your body in a safe and effective manner. The first is through direct contact with the skin. Upon direct contact, the plant chemicals are absorbed. When it comes to absorbing the oils into the skin, some people believe that using heat will change the effect; however, there is very little evidence to prove this. To achieve the benefits of the oils, all you need is skin contact. The other method is through inhaling the oil. Inhaling the aroma can stimulate your limbic system. This is the part of your brain that triggers your emotions, long-term memory, behavior, and sense of smell. Have you ever noticed that certain scents can trigger memories? This is due to your limbic system.
What Are the Health Benefits?
Many people swear by these oils in treating certain health issues. Many people prefer not to take prescription medication and have found relief through these oils. There is also some evidence that oils and aromatherapy can be very beneficial. Here is a look at a few of the most common issues that can be treated using oils.
Stress and Anxiety
Most people live with some sort of stress in their lives. Whether it is due to work, family, or finances, most people have some level of stress and anxiety in their lives. According to a recent study, 43 percent of people surveyed said that using essential oils has helped them reduce their stress and anxiety. Studies have also shown that the smell of the oils, also known as aromatherapy, can be very beneficial when used in conjunction with traditional therapy. This is why many massage therapists use oils and aromatherapy while working with their clients. When choosing the best oils that are effective in relieving stress and anxiety, you should go with lavender, sandalwood, bergamot, rose, and chamomile.
Headaches and Migraines
Chronic headaches and migraines can be debilitating. These conditions can make it difficult for you to handle everyday tasks. Two studies were performed in the ’90s, where participants were told to dab essential oils on their temples when they were suffering from a headache or migraine. Most of the participants reported pain relief. Recent studies have shown that applying oils to the skin can help with headaches and migraines. The most effective oils for headaches and migraines include Ylang-Ylang and lemon. There is also evidence that the combination of chamomile and sesame oil applied directly to the temples can treat headaches and migraines. This is a traditional Persian headache remedy that has been used for centuries.
Sleep Issues and Insomnia
Many people suffer from sleep issues and insomnia. Some people struggle to fall asleep at night. It can be hard to shut your mind off at the end of the day, which results in you tossing and turning. Some people can fall asleep, but they cannot stay asleep. Over the years, there have been at least 15 studies that found that smelling the oils can have positive effects on sleep habits.
Further studies have shown that essential oils can be beneficial to women after childbirth and patients with heart disease. The best essential oil to promote sleep is chamomile. Sandalwood is one of the best essential oils to help calm your nerves, which can help you fall asleep at night.
Reducing Inflammation
There is some evidence that certain oils can help with inflammatory conditions. So far, there have been no human studies to prove this, but there have been animal tests that have shown some serious promise. During one study, a mouse with colitis was given a combination of thyme and oregano oils, and it induced remission. Two similar studies were performed on rats, and they were given rosemary oil, and the same results were reported.
Other Uses Of Essential Oils
There are a few other great uses for other types of oils. Peppermint is excellent in boosting energy and aiding indigestion. Sandalwood can help with focus. Rose can improve your mood, and tea tree can fight infections and boost immunity. As we mentioned earlier, Ylang-Ylang can help with headaches, but it can also reduce nausea and help with skin conditions. Jasmine is excellent oil that has a few different purposes, including helping with depression, assisting with childbirth, and boosting your libido. Finally, lemon also has multiple uses. It can aid in digestion, improve your mood, and treat headaches.
If you are looking for an all-natural way to treat medical conditions, you should buy essential oils. There has been evidence that these oils work, but many people swear by them. Whether using direct skin contact or aromatherapy, you can treat medical issues that have been plaguing your life. In some cases, using these oils in conjunction with traditional therapies can be extremely beneficial.