Essential Oils – What’s the Big Deal?

Essential Oils – What’s the big deal?

If you’ve been anywhere near a blog, Facebook or any other social media site, I’m sure you’ve seen posts about essential oils. Someone is using them to help them relax.  Another person is using them to help fight off colds. And someone else is inviting you to a class. You might have wondered if they are a viable option for your family.  My opinion is YES!

My experience with essential oils has been nothing but wonderful over the past couple of years.  They’ve completely changed how I live my life. I use them to make Diaper Wipes, as air fresheners and even in my food.  I use them to diffuse in the air, to clean, and I even rub them on my children – YES – I am treating my kids naturally whenever I can. Instead of grabbing over the counter medicine first – I go to my cabinet and grab a bottle of essential oil.

People are using essential oils to replace everyday items in their homes for cleaning, laundry, headaches, stress and so much more and they’re doing so without harmful chemicals, additives and side effects.

So what exactly is an essential oil? 

Essential oils are natural aromatic compounds found in the seeds, bark, stems, roots, flowers, and other parts of plants. They can be both beautifully and powerfully fragrant. They are very clean, almost crisp, to the touch and are immediately absorbed by the skin. Pure, unadulterated essential oils are translucent and range in color from crystal clear to deep blue.

Essential oils are used for a very wide range of emotional and physical wellness applications. They can be used as a single oil at a time or in complex blends depending on what you need. Essential oils are usually administered by one of three methods: diffused aromatically, applied topically, or taken internally as dietary supplements.

Let’s talk about the differences.

Aromatic
Certain essential oils, when diffused in the air, can be very stimulating, while others can be calming and soothing. Beyond emotional benefits, diffusing essential oils can purify air of unwanted odors and some airborne pathogens.

Topical 
Application of essential oils can have immediate, localized benefit to the target area of application. They have restorative and calming properties and can be used effectively with massage and beauty therapy. They are also natural disinfectants.

Internal 
Essential oils can also be used as dietary supplements supporting a variety of healthy conditions. Some essential oils have powerful antioxidant properties while others help support healthy inflammatory response in cells. Many essential oils are generally regarded as being safe for dietary use, but some oils should not be taken internally.

If you want to learn more, I suggest doing your research and even checking in with someone you know and trust (or me!) and have them point you in the right direction for information.  Remember – not all essential oils are created equal and you definitely want to use one that is safe for you and your family. Be sure to do your research and ask friends what is working for their family.