Essential Oils for Healing

When the information about essential oils started coming out, my interest was perked due to the aromatherapy aspect.  I LOVE to surround myself with wonderful smells. From soaps, to detergent, to candles and air fresheners, I want everything to smell good! 

I purchased my first kit mainly because it had a diffuser in it along with an assortment of oils.  Diffusing oils in my home gave it a fresh, clean scent and purified the air. As I read the information about the assorted oils, many of them could be used for healing.  As the oil journey deepened, I did more research and began using oils on scrapes, burns, sore throats, sinus infections and when our immune system needed a boost.  Essential oils, containing potent medicinal and cosmetic properties, are a versatile part of a natural medicine cabinet. They work to support the body’s own healing system, and when used correctly, may be able to take the place of conventional over-the-counter remedies.

I highly recommend purchasing a kit with various oils if possible.  Here is a list of the top 10 oils that can be used for healing.

1. Clove

Clove essential oil is commonly used as an antiseptic for oral infections and to kill a wide spectrum of microbes to keep disease at bay.  

The oil is used for treating a variety of health disorders including toothaches, indigestion, cough, asthma, headache, stress and blood impurities.

2. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is a powerful antispasmodic, antiviral and antibacterial oil that is ideal for coughs and colds. Adding a few drops to a basin of steaming water to inhale, or a vaporizer, can help disinfect and clear both the nasal passages and lungs. Some eucalyptus on a handkerchief is a handy way to inhale the powerful oil throughout the day, and regular use during cold season may help prevent a full cold.  Eucalyptus works as an expectorant and helps cleanse your body of toxins and harmful microorganisms that can make you feel sick. One of the most effective ways to utilize eucalyptus for colds is to drop several drops of the essential oil into your diffuser before going to sleep so you can take advantage of the healing benefits all night long.

3. Frankincense

Overshadowed the past several hundred years by its role in the “Christmas Story,” frankincense is finally getting the attention it deserves as one of the most viable healing agents on the planet.   Frankincense essential oil has also been used with much success to treat issues related to digestion,
the immune system, oral health, respiratory concerns and stress/anxiety.

4. Lavender

Well-known for its soothing, calming properties, lavender is wonderful for accelerating healing time for burns, cuts, stings, and other wounds.

5. Lemon

Various citrus essential oils are widely used to stimulate lymph drainage, to rejuvenate sluggish, dull skin and as a bug repellent. Lemon oil stands out, however, as research has recently discovered that it carries useful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

6. Oregano

Several research studies have demonstrated the improving effect on performance, changes in blood count, antibacterial, antifungal  abilities of oregano oil.

To give you a sample of its wide-spread potency, WebMD reports,

Oregano is used for respiratory tract disorders such as coughs, asthma, croup, and bronchitis. It is also used for gastrointestinal (GI) disorders such as heartburn and bloating. Other uses include treating menstrual cramps, rheumatoid arthritis, urinary tract disorders including urinary tract infections (UTIs), headaches, and heart conditions. The oil of oregano is taken by mouth for intestinal parasites, allergies, sinus pain, arthritis, cold and flu, swine flu, earaches, and fatigue. It is applied to the skin for skin conditions including acne, athlete’s foot, oily skin, dandruff, canker sores, warts, ringworm, rosacea, and psoriasis; as well as for insect and spider bites, gum disease, toothaches, muscle pain, and varicose veins. Oregano oil is also used topically as an insect repellent.

7. Peppermint (Mentha Piperita)

Pleasantly suitable for an abundance of oral and topical uses, peppermint may be the most versatile essential oil in the world.  It can be used for upset stomachs, digestion problems, headaches, mental clarity and even to freshen breath.

8. Rosemary

One amazing healing effect of rosemary that many people are unaware of is its ability to normalize blood pressure. Used for centuries to improve everything from memory and brain function to relieving common aches and pains, rosemary even has a history of stimulating hair growth.

9. Sandalwood (Santalum album)

Oftentimes used to soothe and heal sore throats, sandalwood is a gentle bactericide that is more potent than most give it credit for.

10. Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)

Last, but certainly not least, tea tree is a wound healer with a rich history of use as a local antiseptic for burns and cuts as well to treat a wide spectrum of bacterial and fungal infections (including athletes foot and jock itch).

Uses & Applications

Because they are so potent, you must also dilute essential oils in one way or another. The following are some common ways to use them appropriately:

• Baths: 10 drops mixed with 1 cup of salt makes a fantastic aromatherapy for circulatory, muscular, respiratory, skin and sleep problems in addition to calming your nerves. Generally, it is advisable to avoid potent oils that could irritate the skin such as lemon, oregano or tea tree; instead, use soothing oils like eucalyptus, lavender, and sandalwood..
• Compresses: 5 drops per 4 oz. of water. Soak cloth and apply for bruises, infections, aches and pains.
• Inhalations: 5 drops in a diffuser or in hot water for sinus or headache relief.
• Salves: A 2.5% dilution is recommended, which is 10 drops per 1 ounce of oil, for relaxation and to alleviate joint/muscle soreness.

These are some of the oils I keep on hand to be prepared when some natural healing is needed.