What Are Essential Oils?

What are essential oils exactly? They are smelling oils made from natural ingredients, hence the name "essential", since they are derived from the natural essence of the plant. Common ingredients include lavender, lemon and peppermint.

Depending on the type of ingredients in the essential oil, they carry out different functions and benefits to our usage. However, these essential oils are a means of aromatherapy, no matter the type of smell and function; using essential oils are meant for healing and soothing our respective ailments.

The scents emitted from the essential oils, activate the limbic system in our bodies. The limbic system is related to our feelings and emotions. For some common smells and their effects, read on!

 

Lavender

Lavender is the poster girl for calm--If you have smelled it before, you'll know it! It is one of the most commonly used oils for aromatherapy as it brings about relaxation effects. It's even said to help those struggling with insomnia!

 

Peppermint

A strong yet cooling aroma, the peppermint scent, in general, removes discomfort such as nausea. Also, its intense cooling effects help to relax the throat and clear your nose! This would be most useful on days where you're facing a 24 hour flu virus.

 

Frankincense

Frankincense has a woody and spicy smell. People struggling with anxiety may inhale frankincense to lighten some anxious effects. Furthermore, this scent is highly versatile and can help with various ailments—such as colds and coughs, indigestion and even ulcers.

 

Lemongrass

Inhaling this cool, citrusy scent can alleviate stress and bodily pain, and even headaches. In addition, lemongrass essential oil seems to act as a natural insect repellent and air freshener!

 

To us, it is truly amazing how something so small could yet bring us forward in our healing journeys. At Harmony Essentials, we carry our own blend of essential oil, which has been specially curated. We use it ourselves, too, to relax and calm our minds—we wouldn't sell a product that we don't stand for! Of course, it is an essential fact that aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine—do seek advice from a trusted doctor before using essential oils.