5 Must Have Essential Oils and How To Use Them

The essential oil craze has taken off and you may be caught in the middle of all the frenzy. Let me start off by saying, welcome. I know it can be overwhelming, but take a deep breathe and let me walk you through the basics of these amazing natural elements.

Essential oils can be used primarily three ways: dietary, aromatic and topical.

Knowing offhand which essential oil is good for what would require a lot of study and a great memory. It never hurts to keep an article like this bookmarked for the sake of quick reference.

Here are 5 essential oils that will make a great start to your collection and pave the way for health and healing both inside and out. I’ve included details on which can be used where and for what.

1. Tea Tree

This plant extract native to Australia has been used for its antiseptic and anti-fungal properties for centuries. Tea tree oil is often shown to be as (if not more) effective at reducing symptoms of acne than 5% benzoyl peroxide.

Although it’s recommended as a topical treatment only and should not be swallowed, tea tree oil has been shown in some studies to prevent gum disease and can be added to all natural toothpastes using baking soda and coconut oil.

Tea tree oil is especially effective used as a natural cleaning solution when mixed with water and vinegar. If you’re a yoga fan, it makes a great all natural mat cleaner.

2. Sandalwood

Although not the cheapest of the essential oils, a little sandalwood can go a long way and perform a whole host of duties. Many perfumes use sandalwood for its sweet, woody, and warm scent.

With a long history in traditional chinese medicine, sandalwood oil can be supplemented orally in water to fight urinary tract infections and inflammation in the circulatory system.

Topically, its soothing qualities are great for rashes, sun burns, and eczema when mixed with coconut or olive oil. Run a warm bath and feel the difference a few drops make to your overall mood and wellbeing.

3. Lavender

This classic calming oil is widely available and should be a staple in your cabinet. It not only smells great but can encourage sleep for those who have trouble resting peacefully.

Therapeutic-grade lavender is highly prized as an excellent boost for skin, with healing properties powerful enough to minimize the scarring from severe burns.

4. Lemon

Food grade lemon essential oil is a great alternative to fresh lemon with many of the same health boosting benefits like antioxidants. Lemon oils also make excellent grease fighters in homemade cleaners and can help soothe stress levels when diffused into the air in your home.

The same antioxidants beneficial to your insides can work wonders when applied to the skin. Here are some great recipes for all natural beauty products which use lemon essential oils.

5. Peppermint

Last but most certainly not least is my personal favorite: peppermint essential oil. As a non-coffee drinker, peppermint serves to stimulate me in the morning. Clinically it can be used to treat nausea and calm the gastric lining to prevent diarrhea.

When applied as a massage oil, peppermint can help release tight muscles and boost energy. Some add it to all natural toothpastes leaving breath feeling so fresh and so clean.