3 Ways to Use Essential Oils for Better Health
By Amber Page
Essential oils, once the territory of "crunchy" types, have gone mainstream. Everyone from Gwyneth Paltrow to Dr. Oz is singing their praises -- and using them to feel better.
While there's not a ton of scientific evidence to back up some of the wilder health claims people make about essential oils, there is proof that they can help in some circumstances -- and when used correctly, they definitely won't hurt you.
Give them a try and see for yourself -- essential oils may be the thing your medicine cabinet is missing.
Try Aromatherapy for Better Sleep
Studies have shown that the right aromatherapy blend can help you sleep better. Lavender is the star here -- it's soothing scent can lull you to sleep. But it's not the only essential oil with a sedative effect. Chamomile, sweet orange, ylang ylang and clary sage are just a few of the other oils that can help you find dreamland.
Try putting two drops each of lavender, chamomile and sweet orange in your diffuser before bed.
Add Oils to Your Bath to Clear Sinuses and Ease Congestion
Whether you're fighting a cold, battling the flu or dealing with allergies that just won't quit, soaking in a warm bath laced with essential oils can help open your sinuses, clear your head and even ease some of the pain.
Eucalyptus, peppermint, tea tree and rosemary oils can all help -- and they smell good, too! To use, just add a few drops -- either alone or in combination -- to your bath as you fill the tub and enjoy a good soak.
Use Essential Oils During Massage for Extra Benefits
There's nothing like a good massage to ease tension, banish stress and melt away aches and pains.
Adding essential oils to your massage oil can make the experience even better. The aromas can help you relax -- and could even help to soothe away tension and pain.
To ease muscle pain, try adding eucalyptus, rosemary or yarrow. Just want to relax or improve your mood? Turn to lavender, bergamot or clary sage.
For topical application, simply add a few drops to a carrier oil like coconut oil or sweet almond oil before the massage begins. Alternatively, you could use a diffuser for an aromatherapy-aided session.
These are just a few of the many ways you can use essential oils to feel better. If you're hungry for more options, a little googling will give you all the recipes you could ever use!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Valencia, Calif.