By The Green Parent
01st August 2017
Did you know that sense of smell is perhaps the most powerful, but underused sense? Smells are proven to trigger the part of the brain that is linked to emotions and memories, so what can essential oils do for our mind, skin and body?
Safety is important, so please follow the link to the safest way to use essential oils, whether you are pregnant, have a child under 2, have a skin condition or suffer from asthma or epilepsy. Better to be safe than sorry! Also, be sure to check out an accurate “Blending Table” to make sure you are diluting the oils correctly.
The known history of essential oils goes as far back as the Egyptian times, where they famously used certain essential oils to embalm and preserve during the mummification process. Frankincense, myrrh, cinnamon and sometimes juniper essential oils, were commonly used.
This led to discoveries such as the healing powers of Lavender for example; this is the only essential oil you can place directly onto the skin without dilution. Lavender has been known to heal burns on the human body. Amazing right?
How are essential oils produced? Depending on the type of plant that is being used, essential oils are usually extracted by one of three methods: Steam Distillation, Extraction and Expression.
The main uses of Aromatherapy oils are massage, bath/shower, vaporization and inhalation. Organically and wildly grown plants are proven to be better for you, as they severely restrict the use of harmful chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
Everybody has their own preference when it comes to smell and essential oils are no different. Some tastes lend more towards the uplifting and citrus aromas that balance the mind and body like Organic Bergamot and others prefer the more relaxing and soothing feel that Lavender creates. Here are the top 10 essential oils and what they achieve:
Bergamot- relaxing, uplifting & fruity
Chamomile Roman- relaxing, calming
Frankincense- Relaxing, rejuvenating & fresh
Geranium- balancing, uplifting & floral
Grapefruit- energizing, refreshing and zesty
Lavender- Relaxing, cleansing & soothing
Rosemary- energizing, strengthening and toning
Tea Tree- cleansing, stimulating & medicinal smelling
Ylang Ylang- relaxing, sensual & floral
Personally, I’m a lover of the more uplifting and balancing scents that are energising and fruity, like bergamot, and citronella. I do love lavender, but I’m also love the anti-ageing effect of frankincense. Who wouldn’t? I have become surprisingly attached to frankincense now being aware of its amazing ability to preserve, which is why it is used throughout Neal’s Yard Remedies Anti-Ageing Frankincense Rejuvenating range. It doesn’t really smell of much to me, but I do respect the natural rejuvenating properties it can achieve.
Essential oils are the most natural fragrant essence extracted from flowers, leaves, bark, roots & berries. So why not use what the Earth has provided for us and give yourself what you need, as naturally as possible with the scents you love;-))
Emma H Harvey is founder of The Love Organics Company
