{"id":5786,"date":"2019-04-23T10:38:25","date_gmt":"2019-04-23T10:38:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.io\/?p=5786"},"modified":"2021-11-10T14:22:58","modified_gmt":"2021-11-10T14:22:58","slug":"20-most-useful-essential-oils-you-should-have-at-home","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.io\/20-most-useful-essential-oils-you-should-have-at-home\/","title":{"rendered":"20 Most Useful Essential Oils You Should Have at Home"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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You just can\u2019t seem to get away from it. Absolutely everyone these days is caught up in the hype about essential oils.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Natural and highly concentrated, essential oils are directly extracted from things like flowers, leaves, fruit, bark, seeds, or roots and used to remedy a whole host of things around the home and in terms of a person’s health. Baths, massages, and diffusers are some of the most popular used of essential oils within the home, but what are the most useful essential oils?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This list explores not just the most well-known oils but focuses mainly on those which are of most use. Their uses are so wide-ranging that some of them may be perfect for removing a stain from upholstery, whilst others could be ideal for treating anxiety and depression, which could be argued is stain removal also. Depression often lingers like a stubborn sign it is said. Here are those useful oils then, listed and detailed below. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

1.     Bergamot<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Carefully distilled from the fruit peel of the bitter orange, bergamot extract<\/a> is most widely known as a traditional and tasty flavoring to Earl Grey Tea. The extract is also widely used in some versions of the decadently delicious Turkish delight. The essential oil is similarly full of beautiful aromas, ranging from citrusy to more floral and herbal undertones. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you know the Earl Grey or the Turkish delight incarnation of bergamot, you\u2019ll recognize its signatures in the oil. In terms of its application in the home, bergamot can be an effective mood balancer, whilst possessing miracle skin healing properties. Chest congestion can be relieved with its use, as can pain relief and the treatment of a few other common ailments. The list of these ailments includes mild fevers and digestive problems. A miraculous little oil indeed is this, and anything that conjures images of Turkish delight has to be a good thing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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2.     Clove<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Coming from the dried-out, exceedingly aromatic buds of a flower native to a group of Malaysian Islands, this essential oil<\/a> is totally tropical. The evergreen tree, which is native to these islands, produces an essential oil to warm the cockles and tantalize the taste sensors with its powerful spiciness and gentle woody fragrances. Using this oil in a diffuser blend is something that will be repeated time and time again, whilst several other uses make it a must-have for the home. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Widely recognized for its pain-relieving applications, clove oil is medically respected. Reducing inflammation, relieving acne flare-ups, and solving digestive problems are all in a day’s work for this clever little clove. As if that wasn’t enough, bouts of nausea can be addressed, as can nausea-inducing bad breath. Many people swear by clove oil, not to be confused with cloves of garlic. Using garlic oil for freshened breath could be just about the worst mistake you could possibly make with essential oils.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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3.     Eucalyptus<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Arguably everyone\u2019s favorite essential oil, eucalyptus oil<\/a> may be taken from any of the trees in the eucalyptus family. There are a number of different trees in this family and it is entirely reliant on which particular one is used, as to which fragrance and health benefits are experienced. Each oil is as unique as the tree it comes from, despite the overarching links of the family tree. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, the oil that comes from the infantile stems and leaves of the Eucalyptus globulus <\/em>is examined. A fresh and minty aroma that reminds one of chewing gum, is so familiar that the most common uses are perhaps even more well known than the source. Decongestant chest rubs and vapors are widely used by athletes and parents alike, all of which feature the unmistaken whiff of eucalyptus. Sometimes applied as a natural insect repellent, eucalyptus has about as many different purposes as there are essential oils, numerous and varied.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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4.     Frankincense<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Not just for baby Jesus! This essential oil is one of the oldest known to man and is derived via extraction from one of four species of a rather hardy, wild-growing tree. Arid woodlands along the vast Arabian Peninsula, stretching into Egypt are where these trees are found, making the resin highly sought after throughout the whole of the world, from the furthest west reaching corners of Europe, too faraway China in the east. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Spiritually, religiously and culturally, the essential oil is of great significance to a great many people, but how is it useful in the home? A stress-reducing relaxant with anti-inflammatory properties, frankincense <\/a>is also an excellent complement to virtually every other essential oil you can think of, making it the ideal base note in diffusers. Scars can be faded and wounds healed faster with the topical application of the oil, proof that at least one of the Three Wise Men was well in the know about his essential oils.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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5.     Lavender<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Conjuring images of English meadows, the liberal use of lavender essential oil means that it is amongst the best known and most loved varieties of oil in the world. It might shock people to know that its power stretches way beyond the realms of merely providing a lovely scent. Healthwise, lavender can be a miracle worker. Ringworm<\/a> and eczema can be aided in the healing process by this nifty little oil, just as acne scars can be helped along the way. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The relief of the symptoms of skin conditions is fantastic, but the positives don’t stop there. People struggling with digestion or from the nagging pain of sore muscles might also benefit from using lavender oil, as would those seeking an oil with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Jock Itch and Athlete\u2019s foot can also be kept at bay via topical application of the oil, given its antifungal properties. This really is an all-weather oil, not just for an English springtime as its scent suggests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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6. \tLemon<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

No introduction is necessary for this little beauty. Performing wonders before your very eyes, the lemon <\/a>essential oil has long been used as the key ingredient in everything from furniture polish, to air fresheners and soaps, filling our homes and nostrils with an unmistakable citrusy freshness. It wouldn\u2019t surprise many to hear that lemon is actually the most widely used essential oil in the world. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The antimicrobial properties of this powerful essential oil are well known, and well harnessed in its application as a household cleaner. It also has a few tricks up its sleeve though, acting as a natural painkiller and fungi-fighting foot fixer. Some people use it to alleviate nausea or to reduce the effects of morning sickness, whilst others rely on it as a stress and anxiety reliever. It can also enhance concentration, not forgetting the humble but remarkable capability to naturally add blonde streaks to your hair.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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7.     Oregano<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Definitely not as popular or widely used as the previous oils, oregano essential oil<\/a> is a little more niche. The scent is earthy, leaving a feeling of warmth and comfort behind when used in diffusers, either as base oil or within a concoction of your choosing. Comfort is a welcome feeling for those using the oil to relieve menstrual cramps and other associated menstrual problems. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It can be a woman\u2019s best friend for these types of things. In the fight against acne, oregano essential oil is a trusty sidekick, whilst eczema is no match for its natural might either. Topical applications of this oil have so many benefits, and even psoriasis can be kept at bay with regular use. It can be used to help alleviate cold and flu symptoms such as mild fever and headaches, but perhaps its most surprising application, is as a parasite deterrent on pets and livestock.
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8.\tPeppermint<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The humble peppermint <\/a>plant, a favorite in the world of gardeners and essential oils fans, brings with it a copious amount of potential applications. Healthy and beautiful fanatics rejoice at the mention of its name, given the miraculous potency on its leaves in clearing up skin conditions. Invigoratingly minty, this essential oil can give you an unexpected lift, relieving pain and improving digestion at the same time with much more of a kick than even the mintiest stick of gum. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The common cold and the flu are afraid of its refreshing ability to clean whilst parasites run in every other direction following its topical application. If you suffer from excess gas or even bloating, peppermint essential oil can help with that too, cooling and soothing wherever it is used. This really is an essential oil that people keep coming back to. Many try and compete, few succeed. Peppermint oil is the business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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9. Tea Tree<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Adding tea tree oil<\/a> to your bathroom collection of essential oils is a good move. Tea tree oil effectively boosts skin health, soothing and healing several skin conditions and disorders. Tea tree oil is a potent formulation, and you will need to mix it with a carrier oil if you want to apply it to your skin\u2014direct application of the oil to your skin results in irritation and inflammation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Blend tea tree oil with olive or coconut oil as the carrier in a ratio of three to five drops per teaspoon of oil. Avoid using tea tree oil around your eyes. The potent polyphenols in the oil have the same effect on your yes as eucalyptus, creating severe discomfort, redness, and inflammation affecting your vision and the tissues around your eye. Some people are more sensitive to tea tree oil than others. You can use the patch test to check your sensitivity to tea tree oil. Mix some of the oil with a carrier in a strong solution. Rub the patch on the inside of your wrist and with 15-minutes. If your skin doesn’t show a reaction, it’s safe to use the oil.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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10. Grapefruit <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Grapefruit <\/a>isn’t only for breakfast anymore. This citrus fruit’s essential oil is a great choice for relieving the symptoms associated with various health disorders. Steaming with grapefruit oil or using a topical application lets you take advantage of the limonene polyphenols’ potent health benefits found in the oil. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Grapefruit oil affects the limbic system, which directly influences the health of the central nervous system (CNS). Aromatherapy with grapefruit oil can help assist with regulating heart rate and maintaining stress levels. There is also a prominent effect on regulating blood pressure while opening up the airways for more oxygen consumption. Add a few drops of the essential oil to your diffuser, put a towel over your head, and breathe in the steam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The limonene polyphenols found in grapefruit may interact with some medications, increasing the potency. Check with your doctor before using grapefruit essential oil. If you take any diabetic or blood pressure medications, make sure grapefruit oil doesn’t cause any unexpected drug interactions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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11. Thieves Oil<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Thieves oil <\/a>is another popular blended essential oil to add to your collection. The oil has a potent medicinal effect, and it’s a trusted oil for relief from symptoms caused by various health disorders and conditions. Thieves oil contains a combination of the following ingredients. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cinnamon \u2013 Featuring extractions from the bark and twigs of the cinnamon tree.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Eucalyptus \u2013 Extracted from the leaves of this Australian tree.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Clove \u2013 Extracted from the underdeveloped buds of the Eugenia caryophyllata clove species.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rosemary \u2013 Extracts derived from Rosmarinus officinalis, the rosemary tree.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lemon \u2013 Extracted from the rinds of the lemon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thieves oil helps boost the health of the immune system, and it also offers antimicrobial protection against viral, bacterial, and fungal pathogens. Thieves oil fights nasal congestion, opening up blocked sinus when steamed with a diffuser. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thieves oil also promotes optimal cardiovascular and respiratory health, and it’s a great choice for clearing an upper respiratory tract infection. Diffusing with thieves oil also has a positive effect on enhancing mood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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12. Jasmine<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Jasmine oil is incredibly fragrant, with a delicious scent. The oil comes from the extracts of the white flowers found on the jasmine tree. Experts believe the jasmine tree may originate in Iran, and it spread through tropical climates around the globe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jasmine has a popular and well-known fragrance. Manufacturers use it as an addition in everything from green tea to body lotions or aerosol sprays. The romantic, sweet scent of the flowers also features in some of the most well-known perfume brands, such as Chanel No.5, and it’s also a popular ingredient in desserts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jasmine essential oil is a good choice for diffusing, spreading the polyphenols’ scent in the oil across your room. Jasmine has a slightly intoxicating effect, relieving stress and reducing feelings of depression. Diffusing with Jasmine essential oil is also an effective antispasmodic therapy, and it’s a fantastic aphrodisiac. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jasmine also has antiseptic <\/a>and antimicrobial properties. These features make it a good choice for diffusing when you have an upper respiratory tract infection. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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13. Chamomile<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you have a hard day at the office, go home, and draw yourself a hot bath. Add a few drops of chamomile essential oil to the water, and feel your stress melt away into the bathwater. Chamomile <\/a>is a natural nervine agent with a soothing effect on the central nervous system (CNS). The essential oil comes from the plant’s fresh extract, including flowers, buds, and petals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chamomile essential oil comes from two different varieties of flowers, Roman chamomile or German chamomile. The two types have a slight difference in appearance and color, and they have minor differences in the chemical composition of the essential oil extracted from the plant.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There is plenty of research available on both chamomile strains, and chamazulene is the polyphenol in chamomile with the most research behind it. Chamomile has a rich history of use in civilizations, extending back to Greece and Ancient Egypt. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Diffusing with chamomile oil can resolve issues like digestive discomfort, nausea, and gas. It also has a powerful calming effect on the CNS, reducing anxiety and tension. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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14. Ylang Ylang <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Ylang ylang essential oil comes from the extract of the yellow star-shaped flower on the <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cananga tree (Cananga odorata). This tropical tree species is native to lands around the Indian ocean, including the Philippines, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the northeastern parts of Australia.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The ylang-ylang flower gives off a potent aromatic scent that is somewhat overpowering and sweet. Ylang-ylang oil<\/a> is available in different concentrations to suit your needs, with the higher concentrations having an aromatic scent. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The extract from the ylang-ylang flower is another popular ingredient used in perfume formulations. The oil provides perfumes with a medium base note in the scent profile, and it’s also a popular ingredient used in scenting hand soaps and skin lotions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Diffusing with ylang-ylang oil can help to boost your mood and lift depression. It’s also great for alleviating anxiety and decreasing cardiovascular stress. Ylang ylang essential oil also has uses in resolving digestive distress and the pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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15. Lemongrass<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Cymbopogon citratus, or lemongrass <\/a>oil, is another popular essential oil used by alternative health practitioners. When used in topical administrations, lemongrass has a soothing effect on the skin and muscular system, providing relief from tension. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The potent polyphenol antioxidants found in lemongrass oil have a potent anti-inflammatory effect on the body. You can diffuse with lemongrass oil to get relief from headaches and reduce inflammation in the upper airways. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lemongrass essential oil is native to South-eastern Asia, and it’s a popular addition to meals for its delicious aromatic scent. Western culture also enjoys shots of lemongrass juice to detox the body. Diffusing with lemongrass essential oil also enhances the limbic system’s efficacy, the part of the brain that sends messages to the central nervous system (CNS).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lemongrass essential oils can also help with mitigating acne outbreaks while speeding up the skin’s healing process. Lemongrass is also useful for calming anxiety and for treating headaches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\r\n

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