Essential oils are plant extracts derived from flowers, leaves, bark, and fruits. They're made through a process of steam distillation or pressing to capture the plant's natural fragrance.

In fact, it can take several pounds of plant material to produce just one small bottle of essential oil. Aside from their delightful scents, these oils serve other functions in the plant world, helping plants survive and thrive.

<h3>How Does Aromatherapy Work?</h3>

Aromatherapy involves using essential oils for therapeutic benefits. This practice has been around for centuries. When we inhale the scent of essential oils, the molecules travel through the olfactory system directly to the brain. They have a strong impact on the amygdala, which is the brain's emotional center, helping influence our moods and feelings.

Essential oils can also be absorbed through the skin. Many massage therapists add essential oils, like wintergreen, to their oil blends, which can help relax tight muscles. Similarly, adding lavender to bath salts can create a calming soak for us to unwind after a long day.

<h3>What Are Essential Oils Good For?</h3>

Although essential oils are often touted as natural remedies for a variety of conditions, there's still a lack of conclusive research to definitively prove their effectiveness. While laboratory studies, like one from Johns Hopkins, show promising results — such as certain oils killing Lyme bacteria more effectively than antibiotics — the results in human clinical trials have been more mixed.

Despite this, essential oils are commonly used to alleviate conditions such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, nausea, and even low appetite. While results may vary, many people find these oils to be effective in managing mild symptoms or enhancing their well-being.

<h3>How Can You Use Essential Oils Safely?</h3>

Not all essential oils are created equal, and their quality can vary significantly. Some products may contain cheap fillers or ingredients not listed on the label, which is why we should be cautious. For instance, essential oils should never be ingested, as some compounds can be harmful when consumed.

Johns Hopkins also recommends avoiding essential oil diffusers in households with multiple people, as the scent can affect everyone differently. For instance, peppermint is great for headaches but may agitate young children or people with heart conditions. Therefore, it's essential to use oils in moderation and consider how they might impact those around us.

<h3>Best Practices for Using Essential Oils</h3>

If we want to enjoy essential oils safely, there are several ways we can use them. Here are a few ideas:

• Aromatherapy accessories: You can use necklaces or bracelets designed to hold essential oils, allowing us to carry the scent with us throughout the day.

• Body oils: Combining essential oils with a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut can create a soothing body oil to massage into the skin. This is a safe way to enjoy their benefits without irritation.

• Aroma sticks: These small, portable inhalers have an absorbent wick that soaks up essential oil. We can take these with us anywhere to inhale the fragrance whenever we need a pick-me-up.

<h3>Potential Allergic Reactions</h3>

Though essential oils are generally safe, some people may experience allergic reactions or irritation. Those with sensitive skin or a history of allergies are more likely to react. Oils like oregano, cinnamon bark, and ylang-ylang are among the more potent oils that can trigger reactions. Always dilute oils in a carrier oil to minimize irritation.

If you develop a rash or irritation after using an essential oil, it's important to stop using it and consult a doctor to ensure it's not an allergic reaction.

<h3>Which Essential Oils Are Best for You?</h3>

Choosing the right essential oil depends on what you hope to achieve. Popular oils include:

• Lavender: Known for its calming effects, it's ideal for reducing stress and promoting restful sleep.

• Tea tree: Often used for acne and skin issues, this oil has natural antibacterial properties.

• Peppermint: This oil is commonly used for headaches and irritable digestive tract syndrome (IBS) symptoms.

• Lemon: With its fresh, uplifting scent, lemon oil is known to boost mood and is often used in cleaning products.

<h3>How to Choose Quality Essential Oils</h3>

When shopping for essential oils, quality is key. Since there's no formal grading system in the U.S., it can be challenging to determine whether an oil is pure. Here's what we recommend when shopping:

• Check the label: It should list the Latin name of the plant, the purity of the oil, and where it was grown.

• Buy from reputable sources: Choose well-known aromatherapy brands with a track record of quality products.

• Glass containers: Since essential oils are potent, they should be stored in dark-colored glass to preserve their integrity.

• Avoid "fragrance oils": These are often diluted or mixed with synthetic chemicals and should not be used in aromatherapy.

By keeping these tips in mind, we can ensure we're using high-quality essential oils that will provide the full range of benefits.