Essential oils, what are they?
Probably many of us wonder what are essential oils and why are they so fashionable now? Essential oils are a natural product obtained from a single plant species. It is important to know that not all plants are able to produce essential oils.
How are essential oils made?
There are two main and most popular ways of obtaining essential oils from plants. The first is distillation and the second method is extraction, particularly used with citrus oils. However, the method gaining popularity is CO2 extraction.
One essential oil - many possibilities
Essential oils are a product that can be used in many different ways. Due to their unique ingredients, they have been used for years in cosmetology, dermatology and natural medicine. Most often, essential oils are used for aromatherapy and are sprayed into the air. How? Sometimes an oil heater is enough, sometimes a more professional atomiser. Sometimes a simple fireplace is enough, which is used to heat and release the essential oil. The tool is not important, what is important is the effect. This is because from the air, the oil has to reach the body, where its effects will be revealed.
However, essential oils are just as often a unique remedy used during a massage. There is nothing better than a soothing massage for the muscles enriched with a stunning scent, which relaxes the body and takes your mind far away from problems. The oil itself not only facilitates the massage, but also further enhances the effect achieved by applying pressure to the relevant parts of the body.
Essential oils are also compresses. Its ingredients instantly penetrate the skin pores, eliminating ailments. The scent itself, which lingers on the skin, also has a therapeutic effect, relaxing or soothing headaches. For this reason, it is just as often used as an addition to an aromatic bath. There is no better way to relax than in a bathtub filled with hot water, a few drops of oil that moisturises the skin and fills the bathroom with a unique scent. It's a remedy for the autumn blues or a bad day at work. It is also a unique version of a home spa and a nurturing and therapeutic treatment. A few minutes in such a bath is enough to regain energy and strength to act.
More and more often during a cold or catarrh we reach for natural medicine preparations. They can be essential oils, which during inhalation in the form of steam particles are able to easily reach the nasal mucosa, throat and eventually the bloodstream, thanks to which their action is fast, effective and brings immediate relief.
It is worth remembering that essential oils can also be used orally, but - beware! - only if this information is included on their packaging. Only if the manufacturer allows it, the oil can be used as a mouthwash. However, it is usually better to limit oneself to other ways of using oils.
Fragrance oils can do a lot of good... as long as it's good on its own. The fewer ingredients on the label, the better. That's why it's a good idea to start with the label, and end up choosing the oil whose scent you like best. After all, aromatherapy is supposed to be pure pleasure.
Essential oils and their health benefits
Natural essential oils can find use in both physical and mental ailments. On a molecular level, these oils contain beneficial compounds, including antioxidants, terpenes and esters, which can help improve wellbeing.
It has been shown that essential oils can be used:
- reduce nausea
- relieve muscle pain
- help in the fight against migraine
- cope with senility
Basil oil
Basil oil, which is distilled from a very popular herb used in cooking, can soothe coughs and curses, improve mood, or increase alertness and relieve muscle pain.
Bergamot oil
This citrus oil gives Earl Grey tea a distinct flavour and is often used to relieve anxiety. Bergamot is also being studied for its cholesterol-lowering potential.
Cinnamon oil
Research shows that this oil of the ever-popular vice that is cinnamon can improve circulation, relieve stress, pain and fight infections.
Lemon oil
Well known and often recommended, lemon oil is recommended for mood enhancement. In addition, lemon oil also has antibacterial and tonic effects.
Eucalyptus oil
Known for centuries, eucalyptus oil is particularly helpful in inhalation treatments to treat a cold or runny nose.
Lavender oil
It is perhaps one of the most recognised and loved essential oils and no wonder, as its spectrum of action is extensive. Lavender oil is commonly used for anxiety, stress or insomnia. It is not only used for medicinal purposes, but is also used as an ingredient in cosmetics.
Tea tree oil
Produced from the extract of the leaves of the tea tree, found in Australia. It exhibits antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, in particular this natural essential oil is very helpful in acne skin care.
Pine oil
Pine extract is characterised by its antibacterial and antifungal properties. This is all thanks to the terpenes found in the oil, which serve the tree to protect it from pests and pathogens, and can help us in the fight against acne or other skin problems.