Essential Oils
Essential Oils have been around for thousands of years, dating back to 35oo B.C. at that time they didn’t have the products, antibiotics or miracle creams like we have. They relied on these powerful, potent oils to aid in beauty, healing and in some cases used for religious or burial.
So what is essential oils? Essential oils are called “the oil of the plant” the “oil of life,” found directly in the plant itself, the bark, flower, stem, root or other parts. The oil of the plant is a volatile compound, made up of small molecules that change quickly, allowing for protection and for pollination of the plant. Depending on the type of plant, the variety or species it has natural properties like antimicrobial, or antifungal. When extraction occurs, we harness the protection and healing power allowing for maximum benefits. Oils are extracted either distillation or cold press process.
Different types of oils
- Therapeutic grade- These oils are of high quality in a concentrated form. Derived directly from the plant, no modifications, alterations, or dilutions have been made, which is why some oils need to be diluted. They have such a high level of concentration.
- Oils made for fragrances and food are usually man-made synthetic and altered. Trying to use these oils for the same benefits would be futile.
Essential Oil Quality
If you plan to get all the advantages of essential oils, it is important to purchase a therapeutic grade oil. Remember to read the labels; they can be misleading. It might say “natural.” Natural doesn’t mean it came from the plant, or even how much came from the plant. It can be labeled natural but be made in a factory, no regulations currently for labeling and the use of “natural”. Dont be fooled.
Uses of Oils
- Topically applying to the skin, oils are transdermal which means they can be absorbed into our skin directly. Other oils like vegetable oil would only sit on the skin. With the ability for your body to soak in the oils you receive direct benefits from the oil quickly. You can apply oils to wrists, temples, feet, forehead, back of the neck.
- Inhale/diffuse another great way to use your oils. When we inhale the oil, it travels through our nose to our receptors and our limbic system, affecting the brain, heart rate, blood pressure, breathing and stress hormones.
- Internally by adding a few drops of oil to drinks or food.
- Beauty, cosmetic or cleaning DIY
Oils for cleaning
These oils are perfect for general all purpose cleaning, Non-Toxic which means you don’t need to worry about your kids or pets. All you need is a spray bottle, water, vinegar (optional)and a few drops of oil. Use for anything from countertops to vegetable fruit wash.
- Lemon
- thyme
- OnGuard
- Melecua (tea tree)
Oils for skin
These oils have wonderful benefits for age spots, calming skin irritations, wrinkle help and more.
- Lavender-calming skin
- Frankensisense- age spots
- Myrrh-wrinkles
- Melaleuca(tea tree)-acne
- Rose-even skin tone, healthy complexion
Oils for calming
Have a baby that’s restless? Rough day at work? Want to just relax and unwind? Try some of these oils for that. Does a detox, or relaxing bath, sounds good?
- Lavender-calming, peaceful sleep
- Chamomile-mood, calming
- Rose-uplifting
- Eucalyptus-relaxation, clear breathing
oils for common issues
These oils are a great go to if you have motion sickness, bug bites, sunburn, blisters, cuts, muscle aches and pains
- Lavender-Bug bits, cuts, stings
- Peppermint-Bug repellent, breathing, muscle pain
- Eucalyptus-sinus, allergies
- Chamomile-calm irritation
- ginger-motion sickness
These are just a few oils and their usages. If you’d like to learn more about essential oils or how to make your DIY products contact me mydoterra.com/abundantlivingmommy
