Essential oils have been used for healing for thousands of years. The use of these highly concentrated plant extracts can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and Rome. The Egyptians, in particular, were known for their use of essential oils in medicine, cosmetics, and religious ceremonies.
In ancient Egypt, essential oils were used for a variety of purposes, including as a form of medicine. They were used to treat a wide range of ailments, including skin conditions, respiratory problems, and digestive issues. The Egyptians also used essential oils in cosmetics, such as perfumes and makeup, and in religious ceremonies, where they were used to anoint the bodies of the deceased.
The ancient Greeks and Romans also made use of essential oils for medicinal purposes. The Greek physician Hippocrates, known as the "father of medicine," used essential oils to treat a variety of illnesses, including respiratory and skin conditions. The Romans, too, used essential oils as a form of medicine, as well as in perfumes and cosmetics.
In the Middle Ages, essential oils continued to be used for medicinal purposes, but their use in cosmetics and perfumes declined. During this time, the Catholic Church also began to use essential oils in religious ceremonies.
During the Renaissance, interest in essential oils was renewed, and their use in perfumes and cosmetics increased. Scientists and physicians of the time also began to study the properties of essential oils, and their use in medicine continued to grow.
In the 19th century, a French chemist named Rene-Maurice Gattefosse began to study the healing properties of essential oils. He discovered that lavender oil could be used to treat burns, and this led to further research on the medicinal properties of essential oils.
Today, essential oils are still used for a variety of purposes, including in medicine, cosmetics, and perfumes. They are also used in aromatherapy, which is a form of alternative medicine that involves the use of essential oils to promote healing and well-being.
In conclusion, the use of essential oils for healing can be traced back to ancient civilizations, and their use has continued throughout history. Today, essential oils are still widely used for medicinal, cosmetic and perfumery purposes, and in alternative therapies such as aromatherapy. Despite the advancement of technology and modern medicine, the use of essential oils is still a popular and effective form of healing.
Here are the 10 best essential oils for healing and how to use them:
1. Lavender: Known for its calming and relaxing properties, lavender can be used to reduce stress and anxiety, promote sleep, and alleviate headaches and migraines. Use it in a diffuser, add a few drops to your bathwater, or mix with a carrier oil to use as a massage oil.
2. Tea Tree: Known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, tea tree oil can be used to treat skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Dilute with a carrier oil before applying to the skin or add to your shampoo or conditioner for a deep cleanse.
3. Peppermint: Known for its cooling and refreshing properties, peppermint can be used to alleviate headaches, nausea, and sore muscles. Use it in a diffuser or add to your bathwater for a relaxing soak.
4. Eucalyptus: Known for its respiratory benefits, eucalyptus can help to clear congestion, sinus pressure, and relieve asthma symptoms. Eucalyptus is a powerful antibacterial, antispasmodic, and antiviral agent that the Aboriginal people of Australia used liberally for the majority of illnesses in their settlements. The effectiveness of eucalyptus essential oil against Staph infections is significant. Amazingly, a recent study from the VIT University in India demonstrated (in real-time) that Staph aureus completely lost viability after only 15 minutes of exposure with eucalyptus oil!. It's also regarded as one of the greatest essential oils for respiratory discomfort, and most people enjoy the scent of it.
Use it in a diffuser or add to your bathwater for a soothing experience.
Use it in a diffuser or add to your bathwater for a soothing experience.
5. Rosemary: Known for its stimulating and energizing properties, rosemary can help to improve memory and concentration, boost circulation and relieve muscle pain. Use it in a diffuser, add a few drops to your shampoo or conditioner, or mix with a carrier oil to use as a massage oil.
6. Frankincense: Known for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety, frankincense can also help to improve respiratory function and reduce inflammation.
Frankincense, is now receiving the recognition it deserves as one of the world's most effective medicinal substances. The MCF-7 and HS-1 cell lines, which are responsible for breast and other malignancies, are specifically mentioned in a study published in the journal Oncology Letters late last year. Additionally, digestive, immunological, dental, respiratory, and anxiety/stress-related problems have all been successfully treated using frankincense essential oil. Researchers have been able to confirm that boswellic acids possess a potent ability to affect the immune system in addition to its typical healing effects of illness prevention and anti-inflammatory capabilities.
Use it in a diffuser, add a few drops to your moisturizer, or mix with a carrier oil to use as a massage oil.
7. Lemon: Known for its detoxifying and energizing properties, lemon can help to boost the immune system, improve digestion, and reduce stress. Use it in a diffuser, add a few drops to your water or tea, or mix with a carrier oil to use as a massage oil.
8. Oregano: Known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, oregano can help to fight off infections and reduce pain and inflammation. Use it in a diffuser or mix with a carrier oil to use as a massage oil.
9. Chamomile: Known for its calming and soothing properties, chamomile can be used to reduce stress and anxiety, promote sleep, and alleviate menstrual cramps. Use it in a diffuser, add a few drops to your bathwater, or mix with a carrier oil to use as a massage oil.
10. Ylang Ylang: Known for its calming and uplifting properties, ylang ylang can help to reduce stress and anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve mood. Use it in a diffuser or mix with a carrier oil to use as a massage oil.
It is important to keep in mind that essential oils should be used with caution, and always be sure to read the label and follow the recommended usage instructions. It is also important to always use the highest-quality essential oils and to dilute them with a carrier oil before applying to the skin.
Applications & Uses of These Therapeutic Essential Oils
The greatest essential oils must also be diluted in some way due to their high potency. Some typical examples of how to use them properly are as follows:
Baths: 10 drops combined with 1/2 cup coconut milk and 1 cup salt provide an excellent aromatherapy blend for circulatory, muscular, respiratory, skin, and sleep issues as well as nerve-soothing benefits. In general, calming oils like eucalyptus, lavender, and sandalwood are preferable than powerful ones that could irritate the skin, like cinnamon, oregano, or clove.
Compresses: 10 drops in 1 Tbsp of 190 proof alcohol added to 4 oz. of water. Soak a cloth and apply for bruises, infections, aches and pains.
Inhalations: 5 drops in a diffuser or in hot water for sinus or headache relief. Choose your more soothing oils for hot water inhalations usage, like in steam bowls, as hot oils could become quite irritating to the nasal passages when used this way!
Salves: A 2% dilution is recommended, which is 12 drops per 1 ounce of oil, for relaxation and to alleviate joint/muscle soreness.
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