As a wellbeing practitioner, I’m often asked about the different tools and techniques I use to support my clients’ mental, emotional, and physical health. One of my go-to tools is essential oils. I regularly use them in diffusers or blends during Reset Well-being sessions and even for my own well-being at home. Their versatility and effectiveness never cease to amaze me. In this blog post, I’ll share the benefits of using essential oils, important considerations, and some of my favourite blends for various purposes.

What are Essential Oils?

Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that capture the plant’s natural fragrance and beneficial properties. They are widely used for their therapeutic effects, whether it’s to reduce stress, improve sleep, or alleviate physical discomfort.

Benefits of Essential Oils

1. Stress and Anxiety Reduction: Essential oils like lavender and bergamot have been shown to lower stress levels and reduce anxiety. According to research, bergamot oil can lower cortisol levels, improving fatigue and negative emotions.
2. Improved Sleep Quality: Oils such as lavender, cedarwood, and chamomile are known to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. Regular inhalation of lavender oil has been linked to better sleep and reduced anxiety around sleep.
3. Antimicrobial Properties: Essential oils like tea tree, peppermint, and eucalyptus have antimicrobial properties that can help fight bacterial and fungal infections. For example, tea tree oil is effective against athlete’s foot and other fungal infections.
4. Pain Relief: Oils such as lavender, peppermint, and chamomile can help alleviate headaches and migraines. Small studies have shown that these oils can reduce pain and severity of tension headaches.
5. Inflammation Reduction: Certain essential oils have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce symptoms of inflammation-related conditions. Flavonoids in these oils may help with airway inflammation and inflammatory bowel disease.

Considerations When Using Essential Oils

1. Dilution: Essential oils are highly concentrated and should always be diluted with a carrier oil (e.g., coconut or jojoba oil) before applying to the skin to avoid irritation.
2. Pregnancy and Children: Pregnant women and children under three should consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils. Some oils can be contraindicated during pregnancy.
3. Allergies and Sensitivities: Always perform a patch test before using a new essential oil to ensure you do not have an allergic reaction.
4. Internal Use: Essential oils should not be taken internally.
5. Quality and Purity: Ensure you are using high-quality, pure essential oils from reputable sources to avoid contaminants and synthetic additives.

How to Use Essential Oils Safely at Home

1. Diffusion: Add a few drops of essential oil to a diffuser filled with water to spread the aroma throughout your space.
2. Topical Application: Mix a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil and apply to pulse points such as wrists, temples, or the back of the neck.
3. Inhalation: Place a few drops of essential oil on a tissue or cotton ball and inhale deeply.
4. Baths: Add a few drops of essential oil to your bathwater for a relaxing soak.

Ten Essential Oil Blends and Their Uses

1. Relaxation Blend:
   • Ingredients: 3 drops Lavender, 3 drops Chamomile, 2 drops Ylang Ylang
   • Use: Diffuse in the evening to promote relaxation and calm.
2. Invigoration Blend:
   • Ingredients: 3 drops Peppermint, 3 drops Lemon, 2 drops Eucalyptus
   • Use: Diffuse in the morning to energize and uplift.
3. Pain Relief Blend:
   • Ingredients: 4 drops Peppermint, 3 drops Lavender, 2 drops Marjoram
   • Use: Apply diluted to areas of tension or pain for relief.
4. Sleep Support Blend:
   • Ingredients: 3 drops Lavender, 3 drops Cedarwood, 2 drops Frankincense
   • Use: Diffuse at bedtime to improve sleep quality.
5. Focus Blend:
   • Ingredients: 3 drops Rosemary, 3 drops Lemon, 2 drops Basil
   • Use: Diffuse in your workspace to enhance focus and concentration.
6. Immune Support Blend:
   • Ingredients: 3 drops Tea Tree, 3 drops Eucalyptus, 2 drops Lemon
   • Use: Diffuse during cold and flu season to support immune health.
7. Mood Boost Blend:
   • Ingredients: 3 drops Bergamot, 3 drops Orange, 2 drops Clary Sage
   • Use: Diffuse to uplift mood and relieve stress.
8. Grounding Blend:
   • Ingredients: 3 drops Frankincense, 3 drops Vetiver, 2 drops Patchouli
   • Use: Diffuse during meditation or yoga for grounding.
9. Allergy Relief Blend:
   • Ingredients: 3 drops Lavender, 3 drops Peppermint, 2 drops Lemon
   • Use: Diffuse or inhale to relieve allergy symptoms.
10. Calming Blend:

• Ingredients: 3 drops Chamomile, 3 drops Neroli, 2 drops Rose
• Use: Apply diluted to pulse points for a calming effect.

Further Reading and Scientific Reports

• Cleveland Clinic: 11 Essential Oils and Their Benefits
• Verywell Health: 8 Health Benefits of Essential Oils
• WebMD: Health Benefits of Essential Oils

Disclaimer: Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or therapy, including the use of essential oils.