"People could close their eyes to greatness, to horrors, to beauty, and their ears to melodies or deceiving words. But they could not escape scent. For scent was a brother of breath. Together with breath it entered human beings, who could not defend themselves against it, not if they wanted to live. And scent entered into their very core, went directly to their hearts, and decided for good and all between affection and contempt, disgust and lust, love and hate. He who ruled scent ruled the hearts of men."
Essential Oils as Home Medicine
Some essential oils are really handy to have around the home or with you when travelling. I use these five essential oils often, and I never travel without them. They can be easily used for a variety of ailments:
**Remember, essential oils can be very strong. Many essential oils need to be diluted with a carrier oil before use. If using them “neat,” be sure to test a small area of skin first. Read more about essential oils and aromatherapy here.
Chamomile
There are many different types of chamomile oil available. I suggest using “roman chamomile”. Chamomile is helpful for many reasons, but it is particularly useful for insomnia. If you have trouble sleeping, put a few drops in your palms, rub them together, and inhale and exhale deeply into your cupped hands. The medicinal properties will enter your body and help calm your body and mind. You can do this repeatedly throughout the night if you need to.
Tea Tree
Tea tree is antiviral, antibiotic, anti-fungal, and an antiseptic. It is incredibly powerful yet non-toxic to humans. You can use it “neat” (except on very sensitive skin) for sunburns, bites, fungal infections, and other infected areas. Keep it in your first-aid kit or in the kitchen for emergencies.
Lavender
Lavender is another oil everyone should have around the home. It is an antibiotic and antiseptic, unmatched in its healing capabilities for burns and scrapes. It prevents scarring and stimulates the immune system. In addition, it is very calming and has been shown to alleviate depression and shock. Lavender is a wonderful oil to add to beauty products like creams and lotions for its skin benefits and pleasing scent.
Peppermint
Peppermint essential oil is a great oil to keep in your purse or desk drawer for digestion. You can take a few drops in your mouth (just be sure you have real essential oil and be careful not to drip too much or get it on your lips because it will burn for a second!). This will help with an upset stomach, nausea, flatulence, and bad breath. You can also use peppermint for clear thinking and headaches — just breathe it in and feel refreshed and lighter.
Eucalyptus
There is a wide variety of eucalyptus species, and many uses for eucalyptus oil. But one of its best-known uses is for respiratory conditions. When inhaled, it helps clear the airways quickly, making it a go-to remedy for coughs and colds. For this purpose, look for the varieties “eucalyptus radiata” and “eucalyptus ravensara”. They can also be used by asthmatics looking to reduce the need for inhalers. To use, dilute with a carrier oil, apply to the throat and upper chest, inhale through cupped hands, and/or add to a steam bath.
I hope this gives you some ideas for using essential oils around the house!
