7 Health Benefits of Using Essential Oils

Countless studies suggest that essential oils can have a profound impact on your overall health and wellbeing. Different oils provide different benefits based upon their unique compositions, just as the best way to safely use each oil depends on its type. If you’re looking for reasons to incorporate essential oils into your holistic health plan, consider the following health and beauty benefits, as well as the oils that most commonly help you achieve them. 

1. Improved Mental Health 

In a hectic modern world, preserving your mental health can be a serious challenge, but some essential oils appear to help with the task. Basil oil, for example, has been found to relieve stress in some people when inhaled, while the citrusy orange oil reduces anxiety. Emerging research even suggests that essential oils such as ginger, bergamot, and lavender may have the properties similar to those found in common antidepressants.

2. Reduced Inflammation

Inflammation in the body usually occurs when your system is trying to combat an illness or injury. Essential oils, fortunately, may offer a natural solution to the problem. When inhaled, chamomile oil often produces an overall soothing effect on both the mind and body, while the antioxidant-rich lemon oil can be used topically to reduce the heat and swelling caused by inflammation. 

3. Better Sleep 

A growing number of people suffer from sleep issues such as insomnia and interrupted sleep, and many shy away from sleep-inducing medications which often have serious side effects. Lavender has long been used as a natural solution to this problem, as it calms the mind and body when inhaled. Similarly, ylang ylang and basil oil are frequently used in order to encourage relaxation. 

4. Less Pain 

Like sleep medication, drugs that combat pain can cause more problems than they solve, encouraging many to turn to natural remedies for help. Essential oils can relieve certain types of pain, however, particularly that of headaches and migraines. When applied to the temples, peppermint, chamomile, and other similar mixtures appear to relieve the intensity of headache and migraine pain. 

5. Fewer Harmful Bacteria 

As bacteria evolve, so must its treatments. Luckily, emerging research suggests that some essential oils have antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Grapefruit, which can be inhaled or applied topically, shows signs of antibacterial effects. Oregano, though more commonly known as an herb used in cooking, is not only antibacterial but also antifungal, believed to be a viable treatment for ailments such as athlete’s foot and warts. 

6. Clearer Skin 

Aging is a natural part of life, and unfortunately so are a number of other skin ailments. Tea tree oil, however, has quickly become a promising treatment for many of them. Since it is often used medicinally, it should be no surprise that tea tree oil leads the pack of skin-clearing oils, soothing inflammation on the skin when applied. Like tea tree oil, rose oil is used in countless skincare products, as it both fights acne and smooths fine lines and wrinkles.

7. Healthier Hair

Essential oils have invaded the beauty industry, and hair care products are no exception. Make your hair shine with basil oil, as it strips hair of any residual gunk left by typical shampoos and conditioners. Also commonly used in cosmetics, ylang ylang not only strengthens hair but even encourages it to grow more quickly. 

Though more research is necessary, studies continue to confirm that essential oils contain healing, medicinal effects. If you feel that essential oils may be right for you, do some research into the many different types and the endless benefit they offer. With the right oils, you’ll quickly find that natural remedies to life’s most common ailments can lead to an overall better quality of life.