Thursday, November 12, 2009

Essential Oils To Wake Up

Some essential oils help perk you up and increase alertness.


Essential oils are naturally-occurring plant essences extracted by distillation, cold pressing or solvent extraction. Many types of plants, herbs and citrus fruits can produce wonderfully smelling essences. Essential oils have been used for centuries in holistic health care. Each essential oil has different properties and can be used to naturally treat health conditions. Some essential oils have stimulating properties, to be used as a pick-me-up when you're tired.


Cautions Before Using Essential Oils


Essential oils are very concentrated, and should not be used directly on the skin. However, there are some ways to safely use essential oils to wake up. Add a few drops of essential oil to 1 tbsp. carrier oil such as grapeseed or almond oil and massage into the skin. Another method is to open the bottle of essential oil and hold under the nose. Inhale slowly and deeply a couple of times to breathe in the aroma. A few drops of essential oil can be added to a diffuser to infuse the aroma throughout the room. Natural bath and body products that have been scented with essential oils, such as handmade lotion or soap may also be used. Some essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy. Do not use essential oils on young children. Everyone has different scent preferences, so try a few of these essential oils from the lists below or even blend some together to see which work best for you.


Essential Oils from Herbs


Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is a sharp smelling essential oil, with camphoraceous undertones. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) has a very strong herbal scent. If possible, purchase linalool thyme, as this is the most gentle. Peppermint (Mentha piperita) is one of the most well-recognized aromas, with fresh and bright minty top notes.


Essential Oils from Citrus Fruits


Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) is a bright, clean, light citrusy scent that blends really well with peppermint. Taking a quick whiff of this oil directly from the bottle can instantly make you feel more alert.


Essential Oils from Spices


Avoid using these essential oils if you have sensitive skin, or use at a very low percentage to avoid skin reactions. Ginger (Zingiber officinalis) has deep, fiery spicy undertones making this an intriguing essential oil. Black Pepper (Piper nigrum) has hot, spicy top notes, which allows this to blend well with most floral essential oils, but only in small amounts. Clove bud (Eugenia caryophyllata) is a warm, spicy and aromatic oil. Cinnamon leaf (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) is another often-recognized scent that blends well with orange or mandarin essential oils.

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