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Oils That Heal the Body

Oils come in a variety of forms and can be made from plants or animals. According to the University of Minnesota Center for Spirituality and Healing, they can be used internally or externally to help make the body stronger and heal or soothe a variety of ailments. Some oils are used in aromatherapy to help calm or rejuvenate a patient.

  1. Vegetable Oil

    • Monounsaturated fatty acids are found largely in vegetable oils, particularly in avocados, nuts, olives and cooking oils like canola oil. These oils have moderate anti-inflammatory properties and also lower the bad cholesterol in the blood.

      Some vegetable oils have antioxidants, which help prevent and fight cancer cells.

      Olive oil is a vegetable oil that is a big part of the Mediterranean diet--a diet recognized for its health benefits. The oil helps to fight obesity, boost the immune system, and lower high blood pressure and high cholesterol, according to an April 2010 study conducted by the University of Cordoba in Spain.

    Fish Oil and Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids

    • Polyunsaturated fatty acids are found in the oil of fish, seafood and some vegetables (like flax). These oils include Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids--oils that help brain development and fight diseases.

      Eating the proper amount of polyunsaturated Fatty Acids can help asthma and arthritis patients, according to the University of Michigan's Healing Foods Pyramid. It can help the cardiovascular system and have a positive effect on cancer patients.

      Salmon oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. It is recommended by the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine as a supplement for people with attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). According to the University of Maryland, the acids can help the mood-balancing hormones and improve brain function.

    Essential Oils

    • Essential oils are removed from plant materials using a distillation process. Some common essential oils are lavender, tea tree, ylang ylang, peppermint, citronella and lemon balm. These oils are usually used externally on the skin or their fumes inhaled. Some oils can be ingested.

      Essential oils are used on the skin to help treat conditions like eczema and acne, according to the University of Minnesota Center for Spirituality and Healing. Many essential oils can irritate or harm the skin if applied directly, however. They are mixed with a base, or carrier, oil before being used. Carrier oils are usually a mild vegetable oil like canola or olive. Other more expensive oils include jojoba, almond or grapeseed oils.

      Lavender is an example of a multipurpose oil that is readily available. It can be applied directly to the skin and is used in aromatherapy and as a topical treatment. The University of Maryland states on its website that lavender can be used to help treat insomnia, alopecia areata (a balding condition), nervousness, skin conditions and muscle pain.

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