Humans have long used natural ingredients as supplements, fragrances, flavoring, and any number of remedies. Essential oils, which are obtained from organic matter such as trees, flowers, herbs, and fruits, are still used in many industries today. They’re typically used in one of three ways: diffused in the air, applied to the body, or ingested. This varies widely based on the type of oil and its properties, as some are better suited to one method than another, because they may not be appropriate for all manners of use. Essential oils have a number of use categories, including skincare, mood effects, discomfort relief, deodorizing, and pest control.

What to Know About Essential Oils

Methods of Application and Use of Essential Oils

One of the most popular and well-recognized ways to use essential oils is through diffusion. This is performed with non-heat-based devices that distribute small molecules of the oil into the air. Most diffusers have a reservoir of water that has a small vibrating plate in it that creates a mist. When drops of essential oil are added to the water, they diffuse with the mist and float through the room in small particles. These tiny bits of the essential oil stimulate the olfactory system, which is the sense of smell and its pathway back to the brain. Stimulation of the brain through this route can evoke mood and emotion changes; for instance, the diffusion of lavender oil has been studied extensively for its role in relaxation.

Essential oils can also be applied topically, meaning directly to the skin. Depending on the essential oil, it may need to be diluted with a carrier oil; otherwise, it could cause irritation of skin or mucous membranes. Carrier oils are fatty oils such as coconut oil that help reduce the concentration of the essential oil. The benefit of topical application for essential oils is that it can create a local effect on the area, such as when treating dry skin, used as a beauty product, or during massage. Using the best natural essential oils for topical use helps prevent side effects on the skin that occur when oils are packaged with unnecessary additives.

Certain essential oils can also be taken orally, but this is a method that requires caution; only certain essential oils are “Generally Recognized as Safe” by the FDA. For oils that are considered ingestible, they are often used as dietary supplements or flavoring in recipes. Only all-natural essential oils that have not been diluted with other substances should be considered for this method of use.

Next, we’ll cover a short list of essential oils and their uses. Remember, the varieties and methods are widespread, so there’s far more than could ever be captured in one blog!

What Are 5 Uses of Essential Oils?

1. Skincare

Common in products for beauty and for supplementing the treatment of dermatological conditions, essential oils are a common ingredient in skincare products. Cedarwood oil has been studied for its effects on general skincare as well as conditions involving inflammation, dryness, and flaking. Similarly, tea tree oil has been included in anti-fungals for decades, and ongoing studies have noted its effectiveness for a number of skin conditions. Geranium is commonly found in skincare and beauty products and may play a role as a healing agent for many skin conditions due to its soothing nature. It also has an impact on the moisture balance of skin, including the appearance of signs of aging. Rosemary essential oil is often an ingredient in scalp products to manage dandruff and improve the environment for hair growth.

2. Mood/Relaxation

Perhaps the most well-known essential oil is lavender. As one of the most extensively studied essential oils, there is a large body of research showing that lavender has a positive impact on anxiety and mood disruptions, as well as on the biomarkers related to anxiety, such as blood pressure. Citrus oils such as lemon oil have also been studied for their ability to uplift spirits and brighten a room. The crisp scent of peppermint has often been looked at for its effects on alertness and memory enhancement and has been linked to higher scores on mood assessments.

3. Discomfort Relief

Commonly recognized for its clean scent, eucalyptus is a natural essential oil that has been linked to improved pain tolerance as well as anti-inflammatory effects in animal studies. It is also a common ingredient in congestion relief and muscle soreness balms. Clove oil was historically used for dental conditions, and research has supported such properties.

4. Refreshing Scent

A happy home is one that smells great! Scents are personal, so what one person finds attractive, another may not. Pure essential oils are one of the best ways to make a room smell incredible. Commonly diffused non-toxic essential oils for deodorizing include citrus, peppermint, and lemongrass.

5. Pests

Essential oils can be effective ways to repel insects in your home and on your property. Citronella, lemongrass, peppermint, tea tree, and cedarwood have all played roles in natural pest deterrence. Since they generally have a low toxicity impact on mammals, essential oils have grown in popularity as an alternative to standard pest control methods. This has a huge impact on agriculture and in homes, where exposure and residue of the more usual toxic products can lead to health disruptions in humans. They’re also commonly found in natural forms of bug repellant to be worn when outdoors without the potential issues that can occur when the skin absorbs more common repellent ingredients.

There are even more potential uses for natural essential oils, with ongoing research being conducted across the globe. Give your body and your health the products it deserves for wholesome wellness and beauty with Natural Ginesis. Our line of products contains only 100% all-natural oils, unspoiled by added ingredients. You’ll never have to doubt the quality of essential oils from Natural Ginesis; safe, all-natural remedies are the thing we care about most.

Start with one of our convenient essential oil packs tailored to different types of uses and needs, or purchase them individually. Not sure what you need? Call us at (615)-790-6122, and we’ll have the all-natural solution you need headed your way in minutes.