Today, it is undeniable that essential oils are taking the front stage. Some consider collecting essential oils as a hobby they can enjoy at home while others treat aromatherapy as part of their healthy self-care routine and lifestyle. If you experience headaches, insomnia, sore throat, or allergies, or even anxiety, there is nothing essential oils cannot solve. There are several essential oils you can choose from and they each have their distinct healing prowesses.
Although considered as pseudoscience and possible placebo, enthusiasts have testified to its effectiveness after consistent usage. People use essential oils in many ways. Some apply it topically while others use essential oils for their scent as it claims that the scent alone helps soothe headaches and calm anxiety.
What is Aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is the use of therapeutic oils derived from different plant parts that promote wellness to the mind, body, and spirit.
Aromatherapy is a method where essential oils are inhaled or massaged into the skin. Essential oils can be absorbed by the skin, going into the circulatory system. They can also be inhaled and pass through the bloodstream through the lungs.
Sense of smell is one of the strongest senses that can influence brain activity. Inhaling essential oils can activate the hypothalamus and this catalyzes the other changes that can occur in other organs in our bodies such as blood pressure and digestion, to name a few.
Essential oil enthusiasts purchase diffusers so the scent can linger in a room or space for some time. Smelling essential oils help ease tension at home or even at stressful places like the workplace. If you are considering getting into essential oils, this article manual will help get you started.
At first glance, essential oils are costly if we’re looking at the price and the amount of oil we get from the small vials available in the market. But health and wellness do not have price tags. You must invest in things that will help you long-term. You can think of it as purchasing a luxury house and lot and that one day you will reap the benefits of investing in them.
Before you purchase any oil, make sure you’re buying pure and not synthetic essential oils. Synthetically produced oils do not yield the same results as the pure ones therapeutically since they are lab-created oils.
It is also important to note that you’re not supposed to apply essential oils directly to your skin. Essential oils are potent and can cause irritation if directly applied to the skin. Mix them first with carrier oils to dilute the concentration.
Make sure you do a patch test before applying any essential oil to your skin.
Best Essential Oils for Relaxation
1. Peppermint
Peppermint essential oil is a well-known ingredient in many products today. It is not surprising how famous it is on its own.
The first on our list is peppermint oil. It is a popular ingredient for cosmetic and hygiene products. It gives off a clean, cool, and minty feeling. Using peppermint essential oil on its own has benefits. The topical application of peppermint essential oil can relieve tension headaches because of its main component, menthol.
Menthol desensitizes pain fibers, therefore decreasing the pain sensation. The cooling effect of peppermint also serves as pain relief. If you are taking a break from work or feeling lethargic, have a whiff of peppermint essential oil and you might find yourself reinvigorated and relaxed after just a few minutes.
You can apply the essential oil to your temples or add a few drops of this essential oil into your diffuser. Not only does it help alleviate our mood but also makes our room fragrant and luxurious.
2. Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is originally native in Australia but eucalyptus trees are now thriving around the world and are widely used for medicinal purposes.
The second essential oil on our list is famously called the “powerhouse” among all essential oils. Eucalyptus essential oil has antiviral and antibacterial properties. It is a common ingredient of decongestants and steam inhalers. Eucalyptus has the ability to loosen mucus buildup in the airways, claiming its ability to regulate cold and cough.
Similar to peppermint, its menthol component helps in pain relief. Eucalyptus is a vasodilator and that if you use it religiously, your blood vessels will expand and will therefore improve overall blood circulation.
One of the famous methods of using eucalyptus is rubbing the oil on your chest for respiratory relief. This works if you have asthma, bronchitis, or the common cold and cough. You can also use this for your diffuser as the scent alone helps clear the nasal passages.
3. Lavender
Lavender is a notable essential oil and is recognized as the holy grail and saving grace for insomniacs and those who want to calm their nerves before enjoying a good night’s rest.
Lavender essential oil is one of the most famous essential oils out in the market. Its claim to fame is to help people to get better quality of sleep. Anchored to this, lavender helps reduce anxiety especially during the times when you’re experiencing restlessness in the night.
Studies have shown that lavender activates the limbic system. The limbic system is responsible for emotions where the hypothalamus and hippocampus are found. The hypothalamus is where anxiety signals are sent and the hippocampus helps regulate anxiety. Lavender does not get rid of your anxiety but it helps relieve its symptoms such as insomnia, muscle tension, and worry, to name a few.
Do you find yourself restless and bombarded with many thoughts at night? If yes, then you should try diffusing lavender because it calms the nervous system and assists in combating fatigue and stress. A full night’s sleep will relax you and make you energized and productive for the next day!
4. Cardamom
Cardamom essential oil gives an invigorating scent that promotes increased airflow in the lungs. Studies have shown that it may be helpful for treating asthma.
The next item on the list of our essential oils is Cardamom. It is a close relative of Ginger and is recognized for relieving stomach discomfort. Other than its digestive benefits, Cardamom also promotes a healthy respiratory system because of its high 1,8-cineole content.
Essential oils rich in 1,8-cineole are always an attractive factor for enthusiasts because this chemical component can reduce airborne microbes in the air. Experts in the field recommend this essential oil if someone at home is sick or if there are large groups of people in your workplace. Just whip out your trusty diffuser and let the Cardamom mist clear the air.
This essential oil is also a go-to solution for headaches, nervous exhaustion, and is good for improving one’s mood. It’s proven to be effective for those who need a quick pick-me-up when stuck in a creative rut and those who just want to lessen sluggishness.
5. Bergamot
The scent of Bergamot oil can alleviate tension and anxiety levels. This mood booster has a sweet, light citrus and floral scent that promotes cheerfulness.
The fifth item on our list of essential oils for relaxation is Bergamot. Bergamot belongs to the citrus family and just like peppermint and eucalyptus, it is also a common ingredient found in cosmetic products. Known as the “feel good” oil, Bergamot is used to treat anxiety and stress.
Studies have shown that Bergamot oil contains alpha-pinene and limonene that allow it to generate a feeling of calmness and relaxation. It lowers cortisol levels, also known as stress hormones, and also uplifts the mood. Compared to its other citrus relatives, Bergamot is unique because of its sweet, slightly spicy, and floral aroma.
6. Frankincense
Frankincense essential oil has a sweet, warm, and stimulating scent that has been part of ancient rituals and ceremonies. Photo courtesy: Wikipedia.org
Coined as one of the “most prized and precious essential oils,” Frankincense traces its fame and health benefits from the Bible. In ancient times, Frankincense was used as perfume or serum to soothe the skin. Frankincense is one of the pricier essential oils you can acquire because sourcing its raw materials is far more complex and challenging.
When applied topically, Frankincense promises rejuvenation because of its beautifying properties. When inhaled or diffused, this “king of essential oils” assists the healthy functioning of several body systems such as respiratory, immune, digestive, and nervous. Frankincense is sourced from Boswellia trees so expect its aroma to emanate a fragrant, earthy, with a hint of spice and citrus scent.
If you’re the type who wants to experience the opulence and relive the time you bought a luxury house, then Frankincense is definitely a bang for your buck.
7. Ylang-Ylang
Ylang-ylang is derived from the flowers of Cananga Odorata, which is originally found in Southeast Asian countries and Australia. Photo courtesy: Wikipedia.org
Last but not least in the list of our essential oils is the Ylang-ylang. This essential oil is sourced from flowers of the Ylang-ylang tree and because of its pleasant smell and protective components, it is the choice scent of many luxurious skincare and hair care products.
Ylang-ylang is distinguished as the “flower of flowers” because it produces one of the most potent essential oils today. In Aromatherapy, Ylang ylang essential oil creates a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere. It sets a serene mood for the room and is ideal for relieving feelings of stress, fatigue, and even insomnia.
If you are into rich, fruity, and flowery scents, Ylang-ylang essential oil might be the choice for you!
Luxury is in the details
Summing it all up, there are many essential oils available in the market but you should always be wary and be well-informed before purchasing. Essential oils are good for one’s well-being whether it’s inhaled or absorbed through the skin. Not only does it promote physical wellness but also mental and spiritual restoration.
As mentioned earlier, the sense of smell is one of the strongest senses we have that can influence the brain. We are constantly reminded of things when we smell a particular scent. The same goes for luxury. Not all scents remind us of luxury. Here at Brittany, our luxury homes are so close to nature that you can literally smell it.
Crosswinds by Brittany, the premier destination for leisure and luxury living in Tagaytay City, is a Swiss-inspired real estate development surrounded by over 35,000 lush pine trees. No amount of essential oils can beat the natural scent emitted by this haven of greenery. The same goes for Brittany Sta. Rosa, which is a thriving 300-hectare community in Laguna with an abundance of verdant landscapes and wildlife.
Brittany Corporation remains to be unparalleled when it comes to delivering luxury that encompasses all five senses. Learn more about its luxury house and lots and luxury condominiums here.
