(And 9 Ways To Use Them!)
Please note that I am not qualified as a medical professional. I am simply recounting and sharing my own experiences on this website. Nothing I express here should be taken as medical advice and you should consult with your doctor before starting any diet or exercise program. I expressly disclaim any and all liability of any kind with respect to any act or omission wholly or in part in reliance on anything contained in this website.
I have been using essential oils to treat illnesses and to scent my home for many years now and I am always amazed at how well they work! I always think to myself, “Why doesn’t everyone use these!” They are non-toxic, smell great and can be used in numerous ways.
Therefore, I’ve composed a short list for you of the 10 best starter oils to have on hand, as well as how to use them. It’s best to stock up on a few of these gems for when an illness hits. That way, you will be prepared and know just what to do with them!
The Best Essential Oils
There are several brands on the market, including doTERRA, Healing Solutions, Plant Therapy & Young Living. My favorite brand, by far, however, is Edens Garden (i.e. Effective, Dedicated, Educated, Natural and Safe) because it is a Non-Multi-Level Marketing (Non-MLM) company, which helps them keep their prices down. They source their oils from farms around the globe, where the plants yielding essential oils are growing in their natural habitat.
Whichever brand of essential oils you choose to purchase, be sure that the oils are 100% therapeutic grade and are free of synthetics. It is also important to know whether the oils have been extracted using chemicals, steam distillation or cold-pressing. Oils extracted using a chemical process are NOT considered true essential oils. In order to be sure a company’s oils meet your standards, you may need to take a close look at the company.
In any case, following are the 10 best oils to have around your home for cleaning, treating illnesses and creating diffused scents in your home.
1. Clary Sage
Clary sage oil (Salvia Sclarea) is known for its ability to regulate hormones and provide PMS relief. In fact, a 2012 study revealed that clary sage is an effective treatment for relieving menstrual pain and cramping.
Furthermore, a 2014 study, showed that clary sage was effective in lowering cortisol levels in postmenopausal women in their 50s, as well as improving thyroid hormone levels.
Clary sage is thought to have antidepressant effects and can promote stress reduction, relaxation and emotional stability. It is antibacterial, astringent, antiseptic, and can help improve circulation. It is a wonderful oil to have on hand!
2. Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus oil (Eucalyptus Globutus) has the ability to kill fungus, bacteria, insects, mites, and weeds. It can also help boost your immune system, act as an expectorant and ease the respiratory system. It has immune-stimulatory, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, and spasmolytic properties. In fact, it is thought to be a natural antibiotic for several infectious diseases. It may clear sinuses and relieve congestion, helping you breathe through a stuffy nose.
“Eucalyptus is best known as a mucolytic agent – which clears and thins mucus – and as an expectorant – which helps us cough out mucus out – and as an all-around antimicrobial.”
– Amy Galper, Aromatherapist
It is a very powerful essential oil and should be in everyone’s medicine cabinet.
3. Fighting Five
Fighting Five (previously Four Thieves) is a synergy blend of Lemon, Cinnamon Leaf, Moroccan Rosemary, Clove Bud, Eucalyptus Globulus and Eucalyptus Radiata essential oils.
According to legend, four thieves robbed the homes of several deceased victims of the plague. They were eventually caught and claimed that an herbal tonic protected them from the plague.
This oil blend is composed of oils from herbs similar to those used in the thieves’ original formula and is aimed at boosting the immune system. It has anti-bacterial, anti-infectious, anti-viral and antiseptic properties and is known to aid in eliminating symptoms from colds and the flu quickly. It can also be used to combat chest congestion, stuffy noses, sore throats, and reduce fevers naturally.
4. Immunity
Immunity oil is another synergy blend of Sweet Orange, Lemon, Eucalyptus, Moroccan Rosemary, Tea Tree and Frankincense essential oils.
Like Fighting Five, the combination of oils in Immunity help to fight off viruses and ease the annoyance of congestion.
5. Lavender
Lavender oil (Lavandula Angustifolia) is a powerhouse, in that it has sedative, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, anesthetic and immune-boosting properties.
Although there are 39 different species of lavender, they all contain large proportions of linalool, linalyl acetate, eucalyptol and camphor. It relieves stress, fatigue, depression and headaches, all while promoting restful sleep.
“Lavender is best known as an anti-inflammatory, and for wound healing and sedating the central nervous system.”
– Amy Galper, Aromatherapist
When my children are sick or have difficulty sleeping, this is the first oil I think of. I rub it on their chest and feet to promote healing and a restful sleep.
6. Oregano
Oregano oil (Origanum Vulgare) is known to be an effective natural antibiotic, even against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. It has antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-parasitic properties.
Oregano oil relieves sore throats and can combat viruses and infections, including Candida and yeast infections. It may also improve your gut health, help you lose weight, lower your cholesterol levels and fight cancer.
7. Peppermint
Peppermint oil (Mentha Piperita) is made up mostly of menthol and menthone, which is great for managing pain. It is a stimulant, analgesic, antispasmodic, antiviral, antimicrobial, antifungal, and antioxidant.
It can be used to soothe tension headaches and migraines, as well as soothe nausea and aid digestion. Peppermint oil can also boost energy levels and has been shown to improve concentration and memory. But it doesn’t stop there! This oil can also relieve chest congestion, reduce fevers, relieve coughs, relieve sinusitis and fight throat infections. Moreover, it can also be used to combat bad breath, as an effective mouthwash.
When anyone in my home comes down with a fever, I always rub this oil on their feet and chest. It helps the body fight various infections and bring down a fever naturally, often times, within a 24 hour period.
8. Purify
Purify oil is a synergy blend of essential oils that combines Grapefruit, Eucalyptus, Lemongrass, Lime and Lemon essential oils. These oils, alone, are very beneficial. But in combination, they become a powerhouse.
The scent of this oil is a very uplifting, happy scent that is helpful in reducing anxiety. It is also very energizing and can increase alertness and mindfulness.
It is a great antioxidant, antibacterial, astringent, antiseptic and antiviral agent. In fact, all of the oils in this blend are purifying and help promote a healthy immune system by helping to clear toxins from the body. It is even able to limit the growth of antibiotic-resistant bacteria strains. Purify is often my go-to oil for diffusing and disinfecting when there is an illness in the home.
In addition, this oil blend aids digestion, relieves headaches and can aid the healing of skin irritations.
9. Tea Tree
Tea Tree oil (Melaleuca Alternifolia) has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, anticancer and antiviral properties.
Tea tree leaves have traditionally been used by native Australian cultures to treat coughs and colds, heal wounds and alleviate sore throats and skin ailments. The oils extracted from these leaves today are used similarly.
Tea tree oil is a great expectorant and is often used to fight infections and boost immunity. It kills oral bacterial and the influenza virus. It can also be used to treat bug bites, dandruff and acne. In fact, tea tree oil is great for eliminating rashes of all kinds.
10. Thyme
Thyme oil (Thymus Vulgaris) has antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. In addition, in a 2011 study, it was shown to be extremely effective against several strains of bacteria, including those that are antibiotic-resistant.
Thyme oil is very effective in fighting respiratory infections, such as those caused by the common cold. It also reduces inflammation, can repel insects, soothes achy muscles, can be used to treat acne and hair loss and can be used to remedy nervous conditions.
Ways to Use Essential Oils
Essential oils have been used for aromatherapy for over 6,000 decades. They are a key component in alternative and holistic medicines in healing both the mind and the body.
Although it is possible for an essential oil to cause a rash, asthma attack, headache or allergic reaction, this is very uncommon. They are generally considered safe when diluted with a carrier oil. If you are worried about having such a reaction, do a patch test on the body before using.
Following are the 9 most common ways to use essential oils for healing.
1. Inhalation
Perhaps the easiest way to enjoy the benefits of essential oils is to simply smell them. You can either smell a scent right from the bottle or add a few drops to a cotton ball or tissue and deeply inhale.
Inhaling the essential oils can stimulate areas of your limbic system, located in your brain, and enhance emotions, behaviors, sense of smell and long-term memory, as well as have a physical effect on your body.
That is why deep breathing is one of the most effective ways to calm yourself and regain composure during hectic times. Adding essential oils to this type of deep breathing may help you harmonize your nervous system and reduce stress in your life.
2. Skin Application
Since essential oils are fat soluble, they are immediately absorbed by the skin. However, they are very potent and should never be applied directly to the skin without being diluted with a carrier oil.
The general rule is to mix 5 to10 drops of essential oil to two tablespoons of carrier oil, such as coconut oil, avocado oil, almond oil or jojoba oil.
Once diluted, oils can be applied anywhere on the body. The most beneficial place to apply oils is most notably the feet, since many acupuncture meridians are located on the bottom of each foot. However, oils can also be applied to the chest to relieve a respiratory infection, on the temples or forehead to relieve a headache and even the on wrists, behind the ears or behind knees.
3. Diffuse or Freshen Air
Diffusers are designed to disperse a super fine mist of essential oils into the air. In just minutes, they fill the air with the wonderful smell of your essential oil(s) of choice and provide healing benefits.
The number of drops you add to your diffuser will depending on the diffuser you own. However, you generally fill your diffuser first with warm or cold water, then with oils of your choosing. The oils will circulate throughout your room for hours.
And diffusing is not just limited to your home or office. You can ditch your toxic air fresheners that hang from the rearview mirror of your car and use a diffuser in your car, instead!
You can also make your own room sprays to freshen the air in your home. Try making these Energy Clearing Room Spray, Pumpkin Spice Room Spray or Winter Room Spray recipes. They are great for giving a room a quick spritz of freshness.
4. Steam Inhalation
Steam inhalation, alone, is a great way to add moisture to dry throats and sinuses and break up chest congestion due to a cold or the flu. It is an old remedy that still works wonders today. However, adding a drop or two of essential oils to your steaming bowl of hot water will kick up the benefits another notch!
To get the maximum benefits from steam inhalation, boil 2 to 4 cups of water. Pour the water into a wide bowl. Add just one to two drops of essential oil to your bowl of hot, steaming water. Then place your face over the bowl approximately 6 to 12 inches from the water. Be sure to cover your head and the bowl with a large towel so that the steam does not escape. Inhale deeply for 15 minutes.
Obviously, if you experience any discomfort or irritation, you should stop inhaling immediately. However, this method can be very effective, if done properly.
5. Soak
Adding essential oils to your steam inhalation works wonders, but adding them to your bath works wonders, too!
People have been taking hot baths for centuries. They enhance the body’s blood flow and enable improved blood vessel function. It is also a great way to relax and unwind from a busy day and can be combined with meditation for even more benefits.
Start by drawing your bath of warm or hot water. Measure 1 to 2 cups of Epsom salt or magnesium flakes and, before adding the salts or flakes to your bath, add 10 to 20 drops of essential oils to them. Let the oils mix with the salts or flakes well, then dissolve the mixture in your bathwater.
The essential oils will dissolve much better when combined with Epsom salt or magnesium flakes, as opposed to adding the oils directly to the bathwater.
6. Massage
Massage is a great way to relax tight muscles, as well as the mind. It is recommended by many doctors and can be very therapeutic.
As noted above, essential oils should never be applied to the skin directly. However, they can be added to a carrier oil, such as avocado oil, almond oil or jojoba oil, and massaged into the skin.
Up to 20 drops of essential oils can be added to 1 ounce of carrier oil. Proceed to massage the oils anywhere on the body, such as the back, arms, legs, feet and even the head. Remember to always massage towards the heart for maximum benefits.
7. Oral
Essential oils are very effective at combatting bad breath, especially those in the mint family. And they are a great alternative to toxic mouthwashes. Simply add a drop or two of your oil of choice to a half glass of water and swish the solution around in your mouth. Be sure not to swallow the mixture, to avoid internal harm.
Essential oils are also wonderful in relieving painful sore throats. They can be used in a gargle, where the essential oils come into direct contact with the problematic area. Simply add one to two drops of essential oil to half a glass of mildly warm water and gargle for a minute or two. The oils can be added to plain warm water or water containing salt, baking soda or apple cider vinegar for added healing benefits. Again, be sure not to swallow the mixture, to avoid internal harm.
Please note that essential oils should NEVER be ingested, unless specifically instructed to do so by a professional. Ingesting essential oils, even the best on the market, can cause harm to the body internally, potentially aggravating your digestive tract.
8. Compression
Using compression, whether it be hot or cold, can be a very effective treatment for muscular pain, sprains and increasing circulation, as well as reducing pain and congestion of internal organs. Compression can also relieve lymphatic and fluid congestion.
Hot compresses are used to treat old injuries, muscle pain, rheumatic pain, menstrual cramps, boils and toothaches. To make a hot compress, add 4 drops of essential oil to a pint of hot water. Wet a bandage or small towel in the solution and wring out the excess water. Place the bandage or towel on the wound snugly. You may want to add a piece of plastic wrap around the bandage and another towel to keep the warm moisture in. Replace with a new compress as soon as the old one has cooled to body temperature.
Cold compresses, on the other hand, are used for recent sprains, bruising, swelling and inflammation, fever and headaches. They can also be used to help you feel more alert when you are feeling tired. To make a cold compress, similarly add 4 drops of essential oil to a pint of ice cold water. Use the solution the same way as with a hot compress and replace the bandage when it heats up to body temperature.
9. Cleaning
Essential oils are also a great addition to your daily cleaning regime. They can help boost the cleaning and disinfecting power of your products, especially if you make your own and use other natural alternatives to commercial cleaning products. The general rule is to use 10-20 drops of essential oils for each 2-3 cups of cleaning solution.
How Essential Oils Work
Essential oils work by supporting the body’s innate ability to heal itself. They help balance the body and mind, supporting our wellness. They have been widely used, since the middle ages, to fight bacteria, viruses, fungus, parasites and insects. Other medicinal properties include being used as an analgesic, sedative, anti-inflammatory and a local anesthetic.
Remember that a little goes a long way! Essential oils are heavily concentrated plant extracts or “essences”. In fact, one drop of peppermint oil is equivalent in strength to 28 cups of peppermint tea! This is why only a drop or two is sufficient to see real results.
“Essential oils are made of hundreds of aromatic molecules, and when we inhale and smell them, they have a profound effect on our emotions, psychology, and physical well-being.”
– Amy Galper, Aromatherapist
How to Store Your Essential Oils
Oils should always be stored in a cool, dark place. I keep the bottles I use most often in a cabinet nearby. Essential oils that I use less often are stored in a wooden box or a soft bag. The soft bag is great for storing larger 1 ounce (30 ml) bottles that do not fit well in wooden boxes.
If stored properly, essential oils should last for years, as they do not turn rancid like carrier oils. But, hopefully, they won’t last that long, since you’ll use them often!
If you are new to using essential oils, I hope that you have gained some knowledge as to which oils are good to start with and how to use them. They will be a great addition to your home and to your health and well-being.
Do you own essential oils? How do you use them? Please share below.
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- Pumpkin Spice Room Spray
- Winter Room Spray
- DIY Disinfectant Spray
- DIY Peppermint Lip Balm
