Essential oils have become more popular with the increased acceptance of alternative and complementary medicine. They are extracted from plants for their beneficial properties and used for aromatherapy.
Aromatherapy incorporates the absorption of essential oils through different methods, but the most common is using diffusers. You can get a mini diffuser for a room, car, or ultrasonic diffuser. Adding essential oil to the water in a diffuser can give your home a nice fragrance accompanied by different health benefits. The steam from the diffuser can also create a light mist with a relaxing effect.
If you have a diffuser in your home and need an essential oil for it, here are some essential oils and how they benefit your health.
- Lavender
Lavender oil has a floral scent that can make your home comfortable, helping you sleep and relax. When added to your diffuser, you can breathe it in and out, alleviating headaches. The topical application of lavender oil can reduce swelling and itching from bug bites. Although lavender has several health benefits, it may cause chills and irritation to the skin.
- Roman Chamomile
When diffused and inhaled via steam, roman chamomile can ease your mind. The light herbal and floral aroma has a calming effect and can treat skin conditions like eczema and inflammation. However, it may be unsuitable for people allergic to marigolds, ragweed, and daisies.
- Rose
Inhaling the sweet, floral scent of rose oil can reduce anxiety. The antioxidant property can improve complexion and treat acne.
- Vetiver
Vetiver has a smoky, sugary scent that improves overall mood and calms your nerve. It can also heal scars and enhance skin health.
- Frankincense
Frankincense has disinfectant, antiseptic, digestive, and astringent properties. It can prevent oral health issues like mouth sores, cavities, toothaches, and bad breath.
- Cedarwood
Cedarwood’s earthy and natural woody aroma has a calming effect. It relieves cough, while the topical application can reduce dandruff and treat eczema and arthritis.
- Peppermint
Inhaling the herbal scent of peppermint can relieve irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It can also alleviate headaches and indigestion. Its cooling effect can relieve muscle pain, sunburn, and itchy skin conditions.
- Spearmint
Spearmint and peppermint have similar aromas and benefits. Spearmint also has antifungal properties, helping to reduce fungi and molds in your home when used with a diffuser.
- Melaleuca
Melaleuca, popularly known as tea tree oil, has antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects. Ingesting tea tree oil is poisonous, but you can enjoy its benefits by inhaling it.
The topical application of tea tree oil can also treat eczema and bug bites and reduce allergic reactions to nickel.
- Arborvitae
This essential oil is less popular but can repel bugs and help you relax when used with a diffuser. However, inhaling large amounts can cause lung irritation.
- Cassia
Cassia essential oil is obtained from the Cinnamomum cassia plant. Its fragrance is similar to cinnamon but sweeter. Using cassia oil in your diffuser can warm up your home, leaving a feeling of tranquility.