Essential Oils are non-water soluble phytochemicals extracted from different herbs and plants. They are what Hakems (traditional herbologists) in old age used to treat diseases with. They used to take these herbs and crush them into quantity needed. With the advancement of science, we’ve forgotten the old wisdom of past generations. As antibiotics work faster but they do have side effects.
I am excited to see an increase in the use of essential oils again. Essential oils are very potent and the one we get now are highly concentrated so don’t forget to dilute them into a carrier oil (like Coconut oil or Jojoba oil). They are gonna look very expensive but trust me a little goes a long way. If you know how to use them correctly.
Here are the ones that I love. I will also share at the end how to use these oils. (I took the pic of only few of them)
Frankincense
It is an oil that nourishes mental health. It is known for it’s therapeutic and healing properties as part of the practice of aromatherapy. It helps reduce stress, anxiety or any negative emotion. It also has anti-ageing properties and this is the part where I tell you why I add it into my skincare regime. It has defence mechanisms against bacteria or blemishes and appearance as someone ages. It may help tone and lift skin, reduce the appearance of scars and acne, and heals wounds.
They also help boost the immune system by killing bacteria, viruses and even CANCER! Lastly, it also helps by balancing hormone levels for women by regulating estrogen production and may reduce the risk of a tumour or cyst development in premenopausal women.
You can inhale it through the diffuser (but by just adding few drops in it) or apply it on the skin by diluting it with carrier oils mentioned above.
Ylang Ylang
Ylang Ylang is one of my favourites. It is known as an antidepressant, antiseborrheic, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, nervine, and sedative substance. It is also used for lowering high blood pressure. You will be able to find it in cosmetics and fragrances a lot (Chanel No.5)
What I use it for though is for its hair thickening quality. So once a month you can treat your hair to coconut oil 7 oz to few drops of Ylang Ylang essential oil. Put it on your hair and wait for 1 hour. You will feel calmer trust me :p Wash it off and you will definitely notice a difference in hair thickness plus a smooth shine.
BTW it’s pronounced EE-lang EE-lang so don’t make the same mistake that I did while ordering it.
Castor Oil
If you follow my blog then you would know how often I suggest Castor Oil for hair treatment. It does wonders for hair growth especially if you are noticing an increase in hair fall. Again it is important to dilute Castor Oil (2 spoons) in an olive oil or coconut oil bottle. Leave it in your hair for 2 to 3 hours then wash it off. In severe cases, you can leave it overnight as well.
It has other benefits too like fighting acne, locking in moisture etc. It’s safer to use compared to other essential oils which should never be applied to skin without diluting with carrier oil!
Bergamot Essential Oil
This is a tricky oil so be careful when applying it and going in the sun. Apply it to the area that won’t be exposed to sunlight for next 24 hours as it can cause irritation. It belongs to the citrus family!
Few drops of it can be added to cooking as well. It is known for the emotional healing part. Here are few of the benefits that I found from my research.
. Calming and soothing aroma
. Promotes healthy, clear skin
. Frequently used in massage therapy for its calming benefits
. Releases emotional pain
. Works as a powerful antidepressant
. Relieves joint and muscle pain
. Aids digestive system
. Soothes skin irritations
. Works as a sedative
Cleanses oily skin
. Kills germs and bacteria
. Relieves stress
. Reduces a cough
Lavender
I love Lavender oil! Oh, it’s smell is heavenly.
The health benefits of lavender essential oil include its ability to eliminate nervous tension, relieve pain, disinfect the scalp and skin, enhance blood circulation, and treat respiratory problems. It is mostly used to help with sleeping problems. Just a few drops on your pillow and you will have less trouble falling asleep. It de-stresses me so easily especially when added to the diffuser.
Geranium
Geranium oil is known for its detoxifying properties. It’s so good for your skin. Add a drop to your facewash and you will get rid of issues like acne or trouble spots. Geranium oil promotes cell regeneration, ensuring the skin gets renewed regularly. Increasing collagen, the connective tissue protein underlying the skin, it helps maintain the smoothness and elasticity of the skin. WHY DID NO ONE TELL US ABOUT THIS?! That was my reaction when I found out how good it is for the skin.
It is also antibacterial. Can stop bleeding and balance your hormones too!
Application:
Even if you are smelling it through diffuser still it is just as effective as directly applying on the skin. I avoid application on the face as my skin is sensitive but I do put my mixture in a roll on and rub it on my foot before sleeping. I do it few times a week. My mixture includes few drops of Geranium, Lavender, Ylang Ylang in a coconut oil bottle (as you can see in the pic above). This mixture helps me with mood, skin and hair. In addition, I do apply Ylang Ylang on hair mixed with coconut oil or castor oil mixed with olive oil once a month. You can do this more often, I am just lazy with applying oil in hair. Thanks to my busy routine
Also, few (by few I mean 1 or 2) drops of any of your oil that is needed for your issues can be used in a diffuser. It adds a very soothing feel to the environment. I love the way they all smell! Just make sure to not on the diffuser for more than 5 hours. After that, you need to let your body process it. So don’t overdo it. Remember as little as possible is gonna get your better results.
Do your own research as these oils are very powerful and highly concentrated in the form that we get. It will be very hard to find these in the first place. I am still looking for Clary Sage & Fennel Essential Oil in Islamabad and failing 🙁 Do let me know if you know where to find them.