1. Lavender: One of the most popular and versatile essential oils used in aromatherapy. Distilled from the plant Lavandula angustifolia, the oil promotes relaxation and is believed to treat anxiety, fungal infections, allergies, depression, insomnia, eczema, nausea, and menstrual cramps. Best use is right before going to bed.
2. Lemongrass: A tropical, grassy plant extracted from the leaves and stalks of the Lemongrass plant, its oil is often found in soaps and other personal care products. Historically, it has been used by healthcare providers to treat digestive problems and high blood pressure. Lemongrass essential oil is a popular tool in aromatherapy to help relieve stress, anxiety, and depression.
3. Peppermint: Coming straight from the leaves of the peppermint plant, it's no wonder businesses use small amounts to add flavor and a refreshing quality to their products. Available in several different forms, Peppermint is commonly used to reduce IBS, relieve indigestion, and ease nausea.
4. Tea Tree: Used as a traditional medicine for centuries, native Australians crushed Tea Tree leaves to extract the oil and inhale it to fight coughs and colds. Containing a number of compounds that have been shown to kill certain bacteria makes Tea Tree oil a valued natural remedy for treating bacterial and fungal skin conditions, preventing infection, and promoting healing.
5. Eucalyptus: Extracted from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree, it was originally used as a remedy for fevers, infections, aches and colds. It is also a natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic which reduces any redness, muscle swelling, and pain. Additionally being an incredibly effective bug repellent and a home disinfectant makes this essential oil an all-around solid investment.
6. Rosemary: An evergreen shrub with needle-like leaves and a woody aroma. Although it is best known as a seasoning, it is one of the most popular aromatic and medicinal plants worldwide. In fact, using Rosemary oil can help prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine (a brain chemical important for thinking, concentration and memory), is utilized as a mild pain reliever, and has been known to stimulate and thicken hair growth.
7. Cedarwood: Steam-distilled from the wood chips of the Cedar tree. Studies have shown Cedarwood to have a plethora of vital uses, like being a natural pesticide, treating acne, relieving pain, stress, and anxiety, and promoting better sleep. Cedarwood helps to lower blood pressure and breathing rates for an easy drift into sleep, but also being a natural sedative aids in deepening and lengthening your resting experience.
