Make your own essential oil
What are essential oils?
Essential oils are aromatic, volatile components derived from plants. They could be derived from any plant part such as the stem, the leaves, the root with a single oil having the ability to contain over 100 different chemical components.
The properties of Essential Oils
Each oil, depending on its chemistry, has therapeutic psychological and physiological effects. Here are some of best and most common use cases.
Mood enhancement oils
Essential oils such as bergamot, ylang ylang, cammomile and lavender can be used as antidepressants lifting the spirits, relaxants alleviating stress and even aphodisiacs.
Focus enhancement oils
Essential oils that focus and clear the mind and highten concentration include rosemary, cardamom, peppermint and thyme.
Adaptogenic oils
The adaptogenic essential oils work on the adrenal glands, which send out the stress hormone cortisol. Such oils stimulate calm, restore balance and help the body cope with stress. Lavender and Geranium are widely used as adaptogens. Basil and Clary Sage help with balancing the female hormones and mood swings during different phases of the cycle.
Anti-inflammatory oils
Used to relieve pain and tension, oils such as frankincense, thyme and eycalyptos can be massaged onto the inflamated area and ease the symptoms.
Antimicrobial Oils
Such essential oils fight against a range of pathogens and can be antiseptic, antiviral, antifungal, helping to fight infection. Tea tree, clove and thyme are amongst the most powerful in this category.
Cleansing oils
Aiding the kidneys to remove waste and some being mildly diuretic, oils such as grapefruit, dill and juniper fall can aid detoxing and water retention.
Digestion Boosting Oils
Boosting digestion, alleviating constipation and bloating, fennel and cammomile could be used when suffering from indigestion. Citrus oils such as sweet orange can also alleviate indigestion and also release trapped gas.
Antispasmodic oils
Such oils aid muscle spasms be it involuntary or voluntary. Rosemary oil is a key representative of this category with its heating properties.
Toning oils
Oils including sandalwood, rose, lemon and bargamot can tighten skin and smooth irregular skin tone.
Deodorizing oils
Lemongrass, bergamot and pepppermint are cool and fresh and can neutralize bad odors.
Маке your own essential oils blend
Ingredients (makes 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 tbsp. multiply for bigger amount)
- essentil oil or several oils- number of drops depend on use
- 1-2 tbsp base oil such as jojoba, argan, almond, olive, etc.
- small beaker or saucer
- dark glass bottle
- label
Instructions
1. Add the essential oils to the base oil in a beaker or a saucer. For a bath blend use 4-6 drops essential oil to 1 tbsp base oil; for a massage blend add 7-15 drops of essential oil to 1-2 tbsp base oil; for a facial oil add 3 drops essential oil to 1 tbsp base oil.
2. Either use immediately for the chosen purpose or transfer in a sterilized dark glass bottle. Seal and label with ingredients.
