What are Essential Oils? – Their Benefits & Side Effects

What are Essential Oils? – Their Benefits & Side Effects

 

You must have heard the name of essential oil. But this is what and how it works, it is also important to know. Essential oils are extracted from many different types of herbal plants. These essential oils are used in aromatherapy and as natural remedies in alternative health practices. However, there is some controversy about the health benefits associated with these oils. In this case, you need to know about their health effects before using them.

 

What is an essential oil?

 

Essential oils are liquid extracts of beneficial plants. Compared to the plants from which they are made, the oils made from them have a stronger smell. In addition, active ingredients are also present in high levels in them. There are several methods of extracting essential oil such as steam or water distillation or mechanical methods such as cold pressing.

 

Essential oils are liquid extracts of beneficial plants. Compared to the plants from which they are made, the oils made from them have a stronger smell. In addition, active ingredients are also present in high levels in them. There are several methods of extracting essential oil such as steam or water distillation or mechanical methods such as cold pressing.

 

How do essential oils work?

 

These oils are most commonly used in aromatherapy, in which the oils are taken through the breath in many ways. These oils are not swallowed because the chemicals present in essential oil can interact with the body in many ways. At the same time, it is applied to the skin, by which they are absorbed and benefited inside the skin. By inhaling their smell, the areas of your limbic system are stimulated which are a part of your brain. They play roles in emotions, behavior, sense of smell, and long term memory. The limbic system works to create memories. The limbic system also plays a role in controlling a number of unconscionable bodily functions, such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. Some people believe that these essential oils can also cause physical effects. However, more studies are required on the subject to verify this claim.

 

Some Famous Essential Oils and their Health Benefits

 

Each of these essential oil has its own special smell and its health benefits. Here are some of the most famous oils and their associated health benefits –

 

Lavender oil

 

Lavender is known to have therapeutic and curative properties. It is used for the treatment of parasite infection, insect bites, burns, and spasms. Lavender oil works as an effective medicine in the treatment of many neurological disorders. It is also a great stress buster.

 

Sandalwood Essential Oil

 

Its anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, antioxidant, anti-tanning, anti-viral properties are found to be beneficial for health. Its use may be helpful for people struggling with sleep problems. It is also beneficial in calming the nerves and concentrating.

 

Peppermint essential oil

 

Peppermint is a great herb that has been used since ancient times that has antiseptic, antibacterial, antiviral, antispasmodic, antioxidant, myorelaxant, analgesic properties. Peppermint essential oil is used to boost energy and helps with digestion.

 

Bergamot essential oil

 

An orange family tree (Citrus bergamia), consisting of round or pear-shaped fruit, from which the peel is made of essential oil. There is extensive use of Bergamot essential oil in aromatherapy. It is used to reduce stress and improve skin problems like eczema.

 

Chamomile oil

 

Used to correct mood and improve relaxation.

 

Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil

 

This essential oil is used in aromatherapy and is believed to be effective in treating depression, high blood pressure, and anxiety.

 

T-Tree Essential Oil

 

It is used to fight infection and promote immunity.

 

Jasmine Essential oil

 

It can be used to reduce depression and increase libido.

 

Lemon essential oil

 

Properties like anti-microbial and anti-oxidants are found in it and hence it is widely used in the pharmaceutical industries. It is also used to treat indigestion and headache.

 

Safety and Side Effects

 

There are many other essential oils like allspice essential oil, apricot oil, camphor oil to name a few which are beneficial for health. Even if these oils are made using naturally occurring herbs it doesn’t make it safe for everyone to use. People with certain medical conditions including pregnant women should refrain from using these essential oils or consult a doctor before you do.

 

Some of the side effects of these oils can be seen like-

 

  • Rashes
  • Headache
  • Allergic reaction

 

Applying essential oil made from citrus fruits on the skin and exposure to sunlight can cause irritation. Usually, there is no harm by mixing essential oils with a base oil or by inhaling them on the skin, but it is recommended to consult your doctor before using the doctor if you have some medical condition in order to avoid unwanted side effects.

Leave a Comment