INTRODUCTION
Essential oils have been used for thousands of years in various cultures for medicinal and therapeutic purposes. It has been getting a lot of buzz recently for helping with everything from anxiety to sleep to depression. But do these concentrated plant-based oils actually work?
It can positively impact your health and well-being if used safely. Interested in trying essential oils? Discover what conditions they may help treat and how to find high-quality products, as not all are created equal. Learn about different types of essential oils, their specific benefits, the safest methods of application, and more.
AROMATHERAPY
Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils for therapeutic benefits, a practice that has been around for centuries. It can be inhaled or can also be absorbed through the skin. By inhaling, the scent molecules in essential oils travel from the olfactory nerves directly to the brain, particularly affecting the amygdala, the brain’s emotional center. It can be used in massage oils to help relax muscles or in skincare products to improve complexion.
MedBound Times connected with the aromatherapist Jirbie Go for her opinion on aromatherapy and essential oils.
Aromatherapy works directly with our brain’s limbic system—the part of our brain that regulates our emotions, behavior, motivation, and memory. For example, when you take a whiff of Rosemary or Peppermint essential oils, it can bring back certain memories—good or bad—or enhance your mental focus by interacting with this part of the brain. Some essential oils like Lavender and Ylang Ylang can work harmoniously with our parasympathetic nervous system to promote relaxation and reduce stress. When inhaled or applied topically, these oils stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which then helps your body to slow down your heart rate, lower blood pressure, and reduce feelings of stress.
Jirbie Go, CA, AIA (Alliance of International Aromatherapists) Board Member, Colorado, US
ESSENTIAL OILS
Essential oils are plant-based, as they’re extracted from plants. They’re concentrated extracts that are obtained by steaming (distilling) or pressing parts of plants. Each essential oil maintains its natural aroma due to a unique blend of chemicals, including alcohols, aldehydes, esters, ethers, ketones, phenols, and terpenes. The composition of an essential oil can differ between plant species and even among individual plants of the same species. Producing a single bottle of essential oil can require several pounds of plant material. Besides creating fragrance, essential oils also serve various functions within the plants themselves.
Lavender
Lavender oil is a renowned essential oil known for its calming and soothing properties. It is used to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and improve sleep quality. It can also apply for minor burns, insect bites, and skin irritations as an antiseptic. Its pleasant, floral scent makes it a versatile ingredient in perfumes, lotions, and home cleaning products. Before antiseptics were discovered, lavender was used as a cleaning agent in hospitals.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is known for its antimicrobial, antifungal properties, and antiseptic. It is commonly used to treat acne, dandruff, and minor skin infections. Its strong, fresh scent makes it a popular ingredient in skincare products, shampoos, and disinfectants. Additionally, tea tree oil can be used as a natural remedy for various conditions due to its potential to kill bacteria and fungi.
Eucalyptus oil
Eucalyptus oil is valued for its refreshing and invigorating scent. It is commonly used to relieve respiratory issues, such as coughs and congestion, due to its decongestant properties. It can be used for opening the nasal passage and giving relief from a stuffed-up nose. Additionally, its antiseptic qualities make it a popular ingredient in cleaning products and personal care items.
Rosemary oil
Rosemary oil is known for its stimulating and uplifting properties. It is used to improve concentration, promote hair growth, reduce dandruff, boost memory, and reduce stress. It’s also useful for relieving muscle pain and joint discomfort. It’s often used in cooking for added flavor. The aromatic, herbaceous scent of rosemary oil also makes it a popular choice in aromatherapy and natural cleaning products.
POTENTIAL BENEFITS
From soothing stress to enhancing skin health, these potent plant extracts offer numerous benefits for your mind, body, and home. Essential oils can be used in aromatherapy, a form of complementary medicine that utilizes scents to enhance health. They can be applied topically to the skin too.
Research has indicated that essential oils may help in:-
○ Enhance mood
○ Relieve headaches
○ Alleviate anxiety and pain
○ Reduce inflammation
○ Reduce nausea
○ Improve sleep quality
○ Upgrade mental clarity
RISK AND CONSIDERATION
Short-term uses can cause allergic reactions, immediate skin sensitivity or burns, and respiratory issues. While prolonged use can lead to chronic skin sensitivity, toxicity from accidental ingestion, and potential interactions with medications.
With several benefits of essential oils, there are risks and considerations to keep in mind:
○ Allergic reactions
If eucalyptus oil is swallowed, this oil may induce seizures. Nutmeg oil can cause hallucinations and even coma when ingested in high concentrations.
○ Interactions with medications
Essential oils may interact with some medications, potentially affecting their effectiveness.
○ Pregnancy and breastfeeding
While some essential oils are unsafe during pregnancy, others are safe for use in massages or diffusers. Researchers show that it may reduce childbirth anxiety. Always consult your healthcare provider before use.
○ Children and Pets
Essential oils can be risky for young children. Consult a healthcare provider first. For kids over 2, use highly diluted oils. Avoid peppermint under 6 and eucalyptus under 10. Keep oils away from children and never ingest them.
○ Quality and Purity
Not all essential oils are equal. Low-quality or adulterated oils may be ineffective or harmful.
○ Photosensitivity
Essential oils increase photosensitivity and cause skin burns if applied before sun exposure.
○ Overuse
Using too much essential oil, even when diluted, can cause adverse effects and reduce its benefits.
Always consult a healthcare provider before using essential oils, particularly if you have health conditions or are pregnant.
STANDARDS FOR QUALITY BUYING
When shopping for essential oils, product quality is crucial. Many brands use the term “therapeutic grade” as a marketing term. Many products may not be properly harvested or could contain unlisted ingredients. Low-quality or adulterated oils may not provide the same benefits and could contain harmful substances.
Here are some tips for selecting pure essential oils:
○ Check the label
Look for the Latin name, purity info, and origin
○ Evaluate the company
Buy from well-known companies
○ Choose dark glass
Protects oil from light and plastic
○ Avoid fragrance oils
Choose 100% pure essential oils
○ Compare Prices
Low prices for high-end oils may indicate they aren’t pure
SAFE PRACTICES
As the essential oil market grows, so do concerns about their safety. Many consumers may not realize the risks involved in using these concentrated extracts in any aspect. To avoid the risks, use it safely and take precautions.
○ Dilution
Essential oils should be diluted to under 5 percent. For a 1 percent dilution, use 6 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
○ Patch Test
Apply diluted oil to the forearm and wait 24 hours. Discontinue use if irritation occurs.
○ Internal Use
Only use internally with professional advice.
○ Aromatherapy
Inhale for respiratory issues and diffuse for mood.
○ For topical use
Use Neat (with supervision):
Chamomile, cypress, eucalyptus, lavender, tea tree, rose, sandalwood.
Dilute:
Bay, cinnamon, clove, citronella, cumin, lemongrass, verbena, oregano, thyme.
○ For diffuse
Safe to Diffuse:
Cedarwood, fir, grapefruit, lavender, lemon, spearmint, tangerine.
Use Caution:
Bay, cinnamon, clove, lemongrass, peppermint, thyme.
○ Safety Tips for diffusion
- Dilute oils properly
- Diffuse in a well-ventilated area
- Diffuse intermittently (30–60 minutes on, then off)
Keep essential oils away from flames as they are highly flammable. If unsure, dilute the oil to prevent skin rash and irritation. Always wash your hands after use to avoid contact with your eyes and ears.
If side effects occur, then there are some tips to follow:-
- Eyes: Use a fatty oil on the eyelid or flush with water.
- Skin Irritation: Apply a fatty oil or cream.
- Ingestion: Contact poison control, drink milk, avoid vomiting, and keep the oil bottle.
CONCLUSION
Essential oils have their benefits, but using them cautiously is significant. For any purpose, it has its pros and cons. It may interact with other medications and show diverse reactions. Always consult the healthcare provider before starting any essential oil regimen.
NOTE: This content is purely informational and isn’t medical guidance. It shouldn’t replace professional medical counsel. Always consult your physician regarding treatment risks and benefits.
References:
Clinic, Cleveland. “11 Essential Oils: Their Benefits and How To Use Them.” Cleveland Clinic, August 15, 2024. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/essential-oils-101-do-they-work-how-do-you-use-them.
Johns Hopkins Medicine. “Aromatherapy: Do Essential Oils Really Work?,” August 8, 2021. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/aromatherapy-do-essential-oils-really-work.
Pugle, Michelle. “Are Essential Oils Safe? 13 Things to Know Before Use.” Healthline, April 26, 2019. https://www.healthline.com/health/are-essential-oils-safe#side-effects.
