Essential oils can be used for a variety of ailments and reasons from immune support to creating a spa like experience during your next bath or shower. They can be used to create natural household cleaners, natural bug replant and even all natural cosmetic products. Beyond creating all natural household products; essential oils can be used daily on their own to reduce stress, improve immune function, reduce cravings, promote energy and cognitive function and more. It is important to take caution when using essential oils you do want to ensure quality and organic sourcing - similar to food and supplements too. Being extremely concentrated; essential oils do need to be diluted in alcohol or a carrier oil such as coconut or almond oil. Also keep in mind that like medications; supplements, foods and even essential oils can have profound effects on the body and these effects are based on the individual. Below are a list of some of my favorite essential oils I use around my house and their common properties.

Chamomile

Chamomile can be used to promote sleep and relaxation and has specific nervine properties making it great for reducing anxiety and stress. Chamomile is also said to promote digestion and reduce blood pressure. I personally love combining chamomile with lavender or ginger and lemon in an essential oil diffusor.

Geranium

One of my favorite scents! For this reason I actually dilute it in coconut oil and apply the mixture topically for an all natural yummy smelling all over body moisturizer. I also apply this mixture to the nape of my dogs neck to protect him from fleas and ticks as the lauric acid in coconut oil deters fleas as does geranium oil. Geranium oil is also said to promote hormone balance in the case of PMS and menopause, reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation.

Ginger

This essential oil is extremely beneficial for the gut and can work to reduce nausea and support digestion by putting a drop of food grade essential oil in water or tea. Ginger can also be used to relieve anxiety and boost mood and energy levels. I enjoy mixing 2-4 drops Ginger and 2-4 drops Lavender essential oils together in a carrier oil such as almond or jojoba oil to use to apply topically and inhale to reduce travelers fatigue during long flights or car rides.

Lavender

Probably the most commonly used essential oil and for good reason. This oil is best for promoting relaxation and reduction of stress. For this reason it is best known to promote restful sleep. Lavender is also known to promote blood circulation, respiratory function and even treat burns. I enjoy placing a few drops on the insides of my pillow cases before bedtime or adding it to a nighttime essential oil diffusor. You can sprinkle a few drops into a bubble bath or sprinkle on to the walls of the shower to create a zen and spa like bath or shower experience!

Lemon

Lemon has antiseptic properties and can be used to make an all natural house hold cleaner by adding 4-5 drops , 1/2 cup vinegar and 1-2 cups filtered water to an empty spray bottle. Lemon also has astringent detoxing properties making it great for both the skin and digestive system. A few drops of food grade lemon essential oil to water to promote detoxification, speed metabolism and promote digestion. You can apply lemon oil topically onto your face by diluting 1-2 drops in oil or rose water and spritzing on to face and rinsing off. Lemon can make some individuals photosensitive so be sure to avoid sunlight after application. Lemon oil can also be used to promote alertness and concentration when diluted and applied topically or by inhaling.

Neroli

This essential oil can be used to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. It is also said to have mood boosting benefits as well as cortisol (stress hormone) reducing effects. Neroli can also work to reduce excess mucus production and prevent and treat skin infections. I have a bottle of neroli diluted in jojoba oil I purchased from Whole Foods that I keep in my car to treat my Houston Traffic anxiety... I also enjoy using this as sort of an au natural deodorant and or perfume as I am particularly drawn to this scent. This essential oil can also be used to make a moisturizing and antioxidant rich face mist by diluting 8-10 drops diluted rose water and rose hip oil.

Peppermint

Peppermint essential oil can be used to reduce tension or headahces and promote energy. It can also reduce sugar cravings. I enjoy using diluted peppermint oil on my wrists to inhale deeply in order to reduce cravings. This can also be diluted to apply topically to temples or base of neck for headaches or minor aches and pains. Be sure to avoid eyes and always dilute essential oils in carrier oils.

Rosemary

Rosemary essential oil has antibacterial, anti fungal, anti inflammatory and analgesic properties. Rosemary is also said to promote memory and cognitive function and can be inhaled or diluted and applied topically to your temples or wrists to promote concentration.

Sage

Sage has very powerful anti microbial and antisepctic properties. Sage is also said to stimulate the brain and regulate hormones. It can also promote digestion and support the intestinal tract and reduce constipation. Sage should be used with caution as it can stimulate the nervous system and also contains camphor which should be avoided during pregnancy. I find I use this oil sparingly and by mixing with neroli, geranium and lavender in my oil diffusor when I feel sick or have been exposed or might be coming down with a cold or virus.

Vanilla

Vanilla has calming and antidepressant and even aphrodisiac properties. It can also be used to reduce fevers and fight infections and reduce inflammation. Vanilla among other essential oils can make great all natural mosquito repellents. For a DIY mosquito repellent I mix 6-8 drops each of vanilla essential oil, peppermint essential oil and citronella essential oil into a 6-8 oz spray bottle with 2 oz of vodka and 4 oz of water.

Essential Oils for everyday use