Curious about essential oils? Here’s a complete guide to using them properly to reap maximum therapeutic benefits
Essential oils have been getting a lot of buzzes lately and the wellness trend hasn’t shown signs of slowing down since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, with many people using them as a mood-booster during these stressful times.
Loved for its unique healing properties and amazing aroma—in particular by those who wish to improve their overall wellbeing—the application of essential oils can be traced back to ancient times, when people used them to produce medicines or perfumes for meditation and other spiritual practices.
Stress relief, reducing signs of ageing, improving sleep quality and mood, the benefits of these natural elixirs are claimed to be plenty. But how exactly do essential oils work? How to find the best ones and use them safely as a part of a healthy lifestyle? We turned to Suki Ng, Aromatherapy Associates Asia International Trainer, to learn the basics about essential oils and all the ways we can incorporate them into our daily routines.
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What are essential oils?
Unlike the name suggests, essential oils are not oils that are essential—though some people do find them an inseparable part of their everyday skincare and sleeping routine. Not to be mistaken with perfumes, these oils are fragrant compounds extracted and from different types of aromatic plants, such as flowers, herbs and woods, which are most commonly used in aromatherapy to provide users with a range of therapeutic benefits.
How are essential oils used? What are the benefits of them?
Inhalation: Essential oils have long been valued for their beneficial effect on the respiratory system. When inhaled, essential oil particles are absorbed through the mucous membranes lining the respiratory structure, entering the bloodstream to produce full-body effects. Oils that carry anti-bacterial and antiviral properties are especially ideal for this method of use, as they can help support the respiratory system and provide symptomatic relief for allergies and infections, unclogging sinuses and soothing a scratchy throat.
Topical applications: Essential oils can also be used effectively via skin application, in the form of body massages, baths or showers for ultimate relaxation. All essential oils are believed to have non-pathogenic, anti-bacterial properties, with some being antiviral, antifungal and anti-inflammatory. They also contain antioxidants that can help prevent cell damage caused by oxidisation and the buildup of toxic waste in skin cells, thereby easing sore, tired muscles and soothing skin conditions—including dark spots, eczema, inflammation or other sensitivities.
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