Benefits of Essential Oils
Essential oils are most commonly used in aromatherapy, which is an alternative medicine that uses plant and herbal extracts in order to support well-being and general health. Essential oils are extracted from plants in a way that captures their essence. Once essential oils are extracted, they’re combined with a carrier oil for safe use.
When inhaled, the aromas from essential oils are thought to stimulate certain parts of the limbic system, which controls behaviors, emotions, and even long-term memory, as well as blood pressure, breathing, and heart rate. Aside from being inhaled, essential oils can also be applied to the skin.
If you’re interested in attending a college of natural health, you’ll want to know the ins and outs of essential oils and the benefits that they offer.
Stress Relief
There are many different oils that have proven to be effective in relieving stress. The most common essential oil that promotes calmness and relaxation is lavender essential oil. Lavender oil has been shown to lower heart rate and blood pressure, which puts the body at ease. The aroma of lavender is very calming, and it can even be used to improve sleep quality.
Other essential oils that help with stress relief include:
- Rose
- Bergamot
- Chamomile
- Jasmine
- Sage
So, when you’re feeling stressed and need a little relief, consider using an oil diffuser and breathing in the aromas to relax and put your mind and body at ease.
Pain Relief
Around 50 million American adults, which is more than 20% of the adult U.S. population, have chronic pain, which is pain that occurs most days and lasts for at least six months. While there are many different treatment options for pain relief, a natural option to minimize daily pain is the use of essential oils.
For pain relief, essential oils can be inhaled, applied to the body, or ingested. Peppermint essential oil has been shown to help with many forms of pain, including tension headaches, abdominal pain, and bloating.
Rosehip essential oil is another option for pain relief. This oil contains a high concentration of polyphenols and anthocyanins, which have been shown to reduce inflammation as well as joint paint. Rosehip essential oil is a great alternative option for people who can’t take over-the-counter pain relievers or for someone who wants a more natural approach.
Better Sleep
Many people are unable to get quality sleep each night. A natural option to get to sleep faster and stay asleep longer is the use of aromatherapy and essential oils.
There are many different oils that have been shown to promote better sleep, including lavender oil, valerian oil, sweet marjoram oil, chamomile oil, and bergamot. Inhaling these oils promotes a sense of calmness and relaxation, which puts you at ease when it’s time to hit the sack.
Reduce Anxiety & Depression
Many people experience depression and anxiety during their lifetime. While psychoactive drugs are most commonly used to treat mental health conditions, essential oils may also be helpful in relieving symptoms.
There are many different essential oils that decrease stress, relieve anxiety, and improve mood. Top options include lavender, wild ginger, jasmine, chamomile, and sweet orange essential oil.
The greatest benefit of essential oils is that they’re free of many of the side effects that are associated with other treatments used for mental illnesses. Essential oils, when used properly, are entirely safe and are unlikely to cause other side effects.
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This list only scratches the surface of what essential oils can be used for. These powerful oils are also effective in treating skin conditions, digestive issues, hair growth, and even lessening cold symptoms.
Want to learn more about how essential oils can be used as natural treatments? If so, consider earning a natural health degree from a holistic nutrition college. While there are many different holistic health schools online, the University of Natural Health is one of the best. We offer all sorts of degrees that can be obtained entirely online!