An Introduction to Essential Oils and their Uses

Essential oils are extracted from the flowers, bark, leaves and fruits of plants. They are organic volatile compounds in high concentrations. Depending on the plant one drop of essential oil can equate to more than a kilogram of that particular fresh flower or leaf. Because of this essential oils are used sparingly and highly diluted.

Essential oils are extracted through steam distillation, cold pressing and solvent extraction and have been used since antiquity for a variety of purposes. Properties include: antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, relaxant, detoxifying, anti-fungal, healing, etc. Lately Aromatherapy has become very popular with essential oils being added to cosmetics, candles, soaps, etc.

How to apply essential oils

Topical application
Essential oils have a very small molecule, so they can be absorbed through the skin. Some oils are capable of entering the blood stream to treat different areas of the body.

Oral
Some essential oils like peppermint, lavender, lemon, grapefruit, and frankincense oil can be ingested to relieve common ailments. However, note should be taken that essential oils are very powerful and like with any medication it is advisable to seek professional guidance. It is also important to use Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils and buy from a trusted supplier, to ensure they are not adulterated with harmful chemicals.

Inhalation
Essential oils can be absorbed by the bloodstream when inhaled. You can use with a diffuser or humidifier.
Lavender oil is great for relaxation and the relief of stress. Eucalyptus oil helps decongest and clear the lungs and air passageways.

How to buy essential oils

It is not easy to purchase unadulterated essential oils. Steam distillation and cold press are very expensive procedures, hence about 98% of the oils in the market are obtained by using solvents or carbon-dioxide which leave a toxic residue.

To complicate matters, in most countries, there are no standards for testing oils and no regulations in regards to production and labeling.

The quality of the oil will depend not only on the species of plant used, but where the plant was grown, if it was grown organically and at what time of the year.

Price is a good indicator because, for example, to make a drop of therapeutic rose oil you need around 40-60 roses which makes it very expensive.

Having that in mind here are some things you should look for when buying therapeutic grade essential oils:

• The company must use steam distillation
• The company must use organic grown plants
• The oil should come in a sealed dark glass container.
• The label should have the common and scientific name as well as the chemotype of the plant, say that it is 100% pure therapeutic grade oil, usage instructions and company information

Essential oils and what they are good for:

Basil: Good for infections and muscular pain. Clears the mind

Bergamot: Relieves stress, good for colics and arthritis

Cardamon: For a healthy digestive system, helps with diarrhea and gas.

Carrot Seed: Good for digestion and as a natural sunscreen against UVB rays

Clove: Supports a healthy immune system, good for tumors and detoxifying.

Coriander: Supports a healthy digestive system. Good for muscular pain.

Eucalyptus: good for coughs and colds, supports a healthy respiratory system. Eases muscle aches. Natural insect repellent.

Frankincense: it supports a healthy immune system and skin. Anti-inflammatory, reduces scars.

Geranium: Great for a healthy skin, it also have a calming effect and it is good for jet lag.

Ginger: Helps with the digestive system, good for low libido and vertigo.

Grapefrui: Good for weight loss and detoxing

Jasmin: for hormonal balance and relaxation

Lavender: good for burns and insect bites, support a healthy skin, eases stress and helps in relaxation

Lemon: Increased energy, healthy circulatory system, cleansing

Melaleuca (Tea Tree): Great for a healthy skin, also good for the immune system.

Oregano: Helps fight infections and supports the immune system

Peppermint: Great for a healthy digestive system

Rose: For healthy skin, aphrodisiac

Rosemary: Mental clarity and memory. Healthy hair.

Sandalwood: Good for Alzheimer and deep relaxation.

Thyme: Supports the immune system and helps fight infections and tumors

Wild Orange: Helps with digestion and fights anxiety.

For more information:

http://www.experience-essential-oils.com/
https://www.facebook.com/EssentialOilUniversity
https://www.facebook.com/LearnEssentialOils
http://livingtraditionally.com/thyme-essential-oil-shown-kill-98-percent-breast-cancer-cells/
http://www.aromaticscience.com/?s=frankincense%20%2B%20cancer

Disclaimer:
Any information in this site is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or medical condition. Always consult and follow your Doctor's advice.