Essential oils have been used around homes for years and years now. In fact, essential oils have been harvested since ancient times for a variety of purposes like medicine, ointments, perfume and as paint for walls in caves. Nowadays, there are countless essential oil manufacturers to choose from and endless uses and benefits. If you’ve never used essential oils at home before, you can use them as a fragrance for your living space, to disinfect any space, cooking, for therapy, and even as an insect repellent. There are endless ways to make use and take advantage of their amazing properties.
What are essential oils?
Essential oils are natural extracts of plants, their aroma, properties, and chemical compounds, captured in a concentrated liquid. After extracting the essential oils, manufacturers add these concentrated liquids to a variety of products like candles, soaps, cosmetics, cleaning products, food, drinks, perfumes, etc. Essential oils are completely natural, but of course, some products may contain synthetic fragrances. It is important to look out for words like “fragrance”, “perfume” or “perfume” if you’re trying to purchase natural aromatic oils.
What are the best uses for essential oils?
Cooking
Essential oils can be used for cooking, but it is important to note that not all essential oils can be ingested. You should always make sure that they’re safe for human or pet consumption.
Essential oils are formulas that, in general, are highly concentrated. Therefore, just a couple of drops will be enough for any recipe. For beverages, such as teas or smoothies, you can add oils to enhance the flavors. Great essential oils for recipes include peppermint, ginger, lavender, orange, lemon, and basil. For example, you can use basil essential oil along with another vehicle, such as coconut, olive, or sunflower oil.
Cleaning
Essential oils are one of the best ingredients for scenting the home and killing and fighting germs and bacteria. They are also a great tool to keep your home clean and get rid of once and for all of all those chemicals with which you clean the house that only release toxic gases that in the long run only damage our health and that of our family.
- Lemon: It has a light and clean smell, and powerful antibacterial and antiviral agents. It is commonly used to degrease and get rid of stubborn stains.
- Tree tea: Fight germs, bacteria, and viruses. It is a great insect repellent, it helps prevent pests and even lice.
- Rosemary: It has antibacterial and antiseptic properties ideal for use in cleaning dishes and clothes. It works perfectly as a home fragrance.
- Lavender: Due to its smell and its antibacterial characteristics, it is one of the preferred and most used. Softens the smell of white vinegar-based cleaners. Also works as an insect repellent and disinfectant.
Yoga and Meditation
Essential oils have been part of the spiritual ceremonies of many cultures since ancient times. They can be used both for cosmetic purposes and to evoke a special state of connection during yoga and meditation. You can add a few drops of your favorite essential oils to a diffuser, and enjoy the smell during your practice. Some scents include jasmine, lavender, sage, and chamomile.
Frankincense has an earthy and balsamic aroma that was prized in ancient times for its ability to promote spiritual awareness and increase concentration. Diffuse it in the environment to facilitate a state of connection during your meditation practice. Use its scent when you need to elevate your mood.
Aromatherapy
Essential oils have been used for aromatherapy for centuries. Aromatherapy is practiced through inhaling essential oils. You can place a few drops of essential oil behind your ears or on your wrists and bring them to your nose to gently inhale the scent.
- Lavender essential oil: to relax and fight insomnia.
- Rosemary essential oil: to stimulate the ability to concentrate and reduce inflammation.
- Peppermint essential oil: To raise biorhythms and energy.
- Lemon essential oil: to concentrate better.
- Cinnamon essential oil: Enhance concentration.
Pets
Pets can benefit from the use of essential oils as well. Whether your dog is stressed during thunderstorms or needs digestive support, using essential oils can help your pets lead the best life possible. Some essential oils can be used topically to repel insects and ticks, soothe skin, and for relaxation.
Before using any product with or around your pet, it is important to note that not all essential oils are the same. Some essential oils can contain substances that are toxic to animals and should be avoided. Talk to your veterinarian before using essential oils on your pet and always proceed with caution.
Essential oil diffusers
You can find different types of diffusers to release the scent of essential oils. They function as a humidifier, creating a scented vapor that spreads all throughout your home. This way, the body can absorb these essential oils and all their benefits.
Soothing Bath
A relaxing bath at night based on essential oils is a luxury and the best option to clear the mind, eliminate tension, and rest, promoting a night of restful sleep.
To prepare for a relaxing bath we recommend you spare at least 30 minutes to enjoy it. The water must be warm to favor the relaxation of all the muscles and help relieve any contracture. If you wish to apply it directly to your skin, we recommend you combine it with a carrier like coconut oil. If you only wish to enjoy the relaxing smell, use a diffuser or apply the oil on your shower curtain or towels.
Linen Spray
You can use essential oils to refresh your linen and other fabrics. You can add some drops of your oil of choice to a water-filled spray bottle. Use this to spray on fabric, curtains, pillows, bedsheets, towels, rugs, etc. It will instantly give an amazing scent and create a relaxing ambiance in your home.
Author: Isabella Caprario, Content Marketing Specialist
