The Many Beneficial Qualities of Essential Oils

Essential oils, fragrant oils derived from an assortment of plants, have long been known for their beneficial qualities. Aromatherapists and practitioners of alternative medicine use essential oils to treat a variety of ailments. From lemongrass to oils derived from grapefruit, essential oils are natural remedies often used to treat both body and mind.

Relaxation

• Essential herbs, such as those obtained from the Angelica root, Cedarwood Atlas, Cinnamon and Galbanum, are often used by aromatherapists and alternative medicine practitioners to treat anxiety and promote a feeling a relaxation. The highly fragrant oils derived from these and other essential plants are often used by aromatherapists in massage treatments or as part of deep breathing exercises to impart feelings of calmness, relieve stress and promote a sense of well being.

Treatment of Depression

• Essential oils have also been used by practitioners of alternative medicines and aromatherapists to treat mental ailments such as depression and the treatment of mood swings. Oils derived from plants such as Anise, Bergamot, Rosewood, Roman Chamomile and Frankincense have all been used as natural alternatives to traditional antidepressants, and are often used in pill or liquid forms as daily dietary supplements. These oils are also often used in massage or aromatherapy sessions to help promote a sense of enlightened mood and reduce irritability.

Scar Treatment

• Essential oils derived from plants such as Roman Chamomile, Rosewood and Elemi are sometimes used by practitioners of alternative medicine as a method of scar treatment. Scars caused by conditions such as acne, stretchmarks and those obtained as a result of injury are treated by rubbing the oils directly onto the affected area as part of a daily skin care regime to help lighten scars and reduce their appearance over time.

Treatment of Wrinkles

• Essential oils are also used as natural alternatives to anti-aging skin care products. Oils derived from plants such as Galbanum, Jasmine, Linden blossom, Neroli and Bitter orange are used to treat issues related to maturing skin such as wrinkles, dry patches and fine lines around the eye area by applying the oils directly onto the skin as part of a daily skin care routine. Regular use of these essential oils is also used in the treatment of skin conditions such as acne and eczema.

Weight Loss

• Essential oils obtained from plants such as Fennel and Juniper Berry are often used by practitioners of alternative medicine to treat obesity and weight-related conditions. When taken as daily dietary supplements or rubbed directly into the skin, these oils are used to treat water retention, reduce the appearance of cellulite and control appetite. In addition, use of the essential oils found in Juniper Berry reduces toxins found in the blood caused by poor diet.

Treatment of Ilnesses

• Essential oils are often used to treat a wide assortment of medical conditions. Oils found in plants such as Frankincense, Lavender and Myrtle are used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis and irritations to the lungs caused as a result of the common cold. In addition, the oils derived from Lavender have been used to reduce the pain associated in child birth, the treatment of whooping cough and for the treatment of cystitis, chicken pocks and the reduction of colic in infants.