Beginner's Guide to Essential Oils

Are you wondering what all the hype is about these hippie oils? Do you have questions but don’t know who to ask? Are you wanting to take control of your own health but don’t know where to start? Then you’ve come to the right place to learn about essential oils and natural solutions that are safer, cheaper and more effective than traditional remedies!

For several years now, my husband and I have been working toward a more natural and simple lifestyle. Then a few years ago I began having issues with skin sensitivity on my face. It got to the point my face burned and was red from anything I put on it except water. So, I started removing all of the sensitive skin products that I always used and started looking for natural alternatives for my skin care. Eventually, this got me intrigued with natural alternatives for the daily products we used in addition to my skin care. During the time of my researching, an online friend introduced me to lavender, lemon, peppermint, and Melaleuca. I was so impressed with the quality and smell of the lavender compared to what I had purchased somewhere locally that I began using essential oils daily. It is my intention to educate and empower you as we explore these oils.

History of Essential Oils

Did you know plants have been used for their therapeutic benefits since the history of human civilization? In the early 1900’s, modern medicine came onto the scene and things started to change. Essential oils are not a new discovery!

WHAT is an Essential Oil?

Essential oils are the natural aromatic compounds found in the seeds, flowers, bark, rind, and leaves of plants, extracted and distilled for health benefits. You know how fragrant a field of lavender is or the smell of a fresh-cut lemon? You just experienced the aromatic qualities of essential oils. Essential oils not only provide plants with their distinctive smell but they also provide plants with protection.

WHY Use Essential Oils?

Essential oils are safe, quick and effective. They work with the body to address issues and root causes on a cellular level. Hundreds of different compounds in each drop provide the complex and versatile ability to combat threats without building up any resistance.

The outer membrane of a cell is oily and you know that oil and water don’t mix. Essential oils can penetrate the cell wall so they can not only be effective on the outside threats, but on the inside threats as well.

And you DON’T become immune to the benefits of essential oils!

When was the last time you were told that antibiotics would not be prescribed for your illness because it was a viral infection? Or that the medicine you were taking was becoming less effective?

Would You Like to Know My Favorites?

Lavender is tops on my list for its amazing aroma and how much it has helped my skin sensitivity combined with coconut oil. Lavender also has a wonderful soothing and calming quality and can aid with stress or sleeping.

My second is Oregano for immune enhancing benefits. If I feel the slightest tickle in my throat and that “feeling” that something is coming on I rub 2 drops of Oregano on the bottoms of both feet for a couple of days. In no time, the tickle or feeling is gone and I do not get down with whatever it was.

Last but not least is another favorite, Clary Sage for hormonal support during my menstrual cycle which helps with lower back pain, cramps, and mood. I roll a little on my lower back and abdomen during the peak days of my cycle. It is also helpful for those menopausal for occasional hot flashes, forgetfulness, and trouble sleeping. No matter your age, Clary Sage supports hormone balance throughout the different phases of a women’s life. Thinks about a life emergency that you would like to be prepared for.

How Do You USE Essential Oils?

Aromatic

Apply a drop to your hands, rub them together, cup your hands over your nose and inhale. Another method is to use your essential oils in a diffuser. A diffuser allows tiny oil particles to attach to a fine water mist that is released into the air. This is an awesome way to purify the air in your home, to combat threats, or to manage moods. You can also wear it around your neck on a diffuser necklace.

Topical

For children and adults with a skin sensitivity, you will want to use a carrier oil when applying essential oils. (A carrier oil can be fractionated coconut oil, olive oil, sweet almond oil, etc.) Most people can apply an oil ‘neat’ which is applying directly to the skin. Be aware of ‘hot’ oils such as oregano, thyme, cinnamon, and clove. Always use a carrier oil when using those essential oils as you may experience a burning sensation.

Internal

Only pure therapeutic grade oils can be safely ingested. Even then, some essential oils are safe to ingest while other are not. As this is a beginner’s overview we will not list them all here. However, please do your research before ingesting. You can ingest essential oils by placing a drop directly under the tongue, in a capsule, in a shot glass of water or juice, or in cooking. Because essential oils are so potent and effective, only a drop or two are needed per use. Less is more! ALWAYS keep essential oils away from the eyes and ears. Consistency is the key when treating a chronic or on-going condition. For an acute condition, application every 15-30 minutes is recommended.