Everyone, by now, has heard someone tout the positive affects of essential oils. With a new Netflix docuseries called Unwell diving into a series of wellness claims, including essential oils, here’s our take and a few facts.
We believe in holistic treatments used in conjunction with western practices, and we’ve had mixed results with essential oils. We’ve personally experienced benefits but we’ve also had some claims fall short of producing results. The things that work find their way into some of our treatments and enhancers, and we’ve created blends for our house made sugar and salt scrubs and our Champion Salve to aid with aches and pains and inflammation. BUT. . .
Essential oils cannot perform miracles. They won’t cure cancer or prevent disease. Despite claims to the contrary, there are no proven studies to support them. In fact, while some studies show promising attributes like working to kill Lyme bacteria better than antibiotics, many of the studies have mixed results when tested on humans. Essential oils work and don’t work differently for different people.
So, should I try it at home, or should I not try it? Is it worth any investment?
My answer is… a qualified yes (if you are as big a fan of Evita as I am, you heard that in song). While I would not encourage you to go out and invest a bunch of money in a large stock of essential oils; I would push you in the direction of trying one or two and seeing how they work for you. There are many reasons people use essential oils, but the most common is likely as a mood booster or a mood relaxer. Even if that’s all they ever did, that would be worth something.
Here are some of our favorites and how to use them. . .
Anxiety/Stress Calming/Sleep Invigorating/Rejuvenating
Chamomile Lavender Peppermint
Bergamot Sandalwood Grapefruit
Sweet Basil Valerian Rosemary
Frankincense Cedarwood Eucalyptus
The easiest ways to use essential oil is to diffuse it or create a topical. Both promote well-being through aromatherapy, but using a topical can also introduce added benefits through absorption.
IMPORTANT! Always use a carrier oil when applying essential oils to your skin. Avocado, Sunflower, Grapeseed, or Olive Oil all work great. 10% of the total volume at most should be essential oil.
Try applying a little to your wrist to reduce stress. Rub some Lavender or Sandalwood on the soles of your feet before bed at night, or try a few drops of peppermint in your morning shower for a boost of energy.
(Ingesting essential oils is not recommended.)
Creating blends
As you get familiar with essential oils more and more, you can play around with blending. Like perfume or candle fragrance, essential oils have top, middle, and base notes. The right mix can give you a signature scent that’s just right for you!