Can Essential Oils Combat Daily Stress?

American’s have been characterized as having an “on the go” lifestyle. We’re constantly moving from point A to point B, and this causes significant amounts of stress on us. In addition to the added stressors of life in general, people also face nagging issues that can make their day even more difficult to handle. We recorded a podcast about their impacts on fitness and stress here:

For all of life’s little problems, people develop remedies that are believed to relieve those issues. One of the rising trends in our country is the use of essential oils help cure the nagging issues we face on a day to day basis. Essential oils are derived from various parts of many different plants. These oils offer many beneficial properties based on which plant they come from. They contain the strongest chemical compound of that particular plant, and are used in a variety of ways.

These products are heavily used in both aroma and massage therapy. In addition, these compounds actually possess properties that can be used to treat a number of medical conditions.

Essential Oils in Aromatherapy

One way in which people use these essential oils is through the use of their aroma. These oils have very strong scents, and must be carefully used during fitness and for other purposes. The result of your oil use will mostly depend on what oil you choose, but there are multiple methods in which to use the aroma of these oils for your benefit.

Two of the most popular methods of intaking these oils are directly inhaling the fumes from a napkin or paper towel, or using steam as a medium to inhale them. We do not advise the oral consumption of oils.

In addition to directly inhaling the scents, you can use the steam method to freshen up your whole house, and adding a few drops of oil to a trash can or laundry room can have freshening effects on the smelliest of places. Finally, the use of essential oils in baths is a very popular method for relaxing, too.

Essential Oils in Massage Therapy

One of the most popular ways that people let down their hair and relax is by getting massages. Regardless whether you’re patronizing a massage parlor or having the massage brought to you, incorporating essential oils into your massage can help relax your mind and body. Be sure the oils are applied in a carrier oil such as olive or coconut oil to avoid sensitization.

While the use of essential oils may or may not affect the actual massage you get, the aroma and benefits of the properties will still be there. Depending on what oil you use, the aroma can relax your mind and muscles, as well as stimulate your senses. In addition, you retain the benefits of applying the oil topically to your skin. Different oils have different effects on your body.

Essential oils aren’t the only part of your massage, however. It’s easy to add more pieces to your massage collection and increase the benefits you see. Massage chairs come in varying styles, and there is even a portable massage chair and massage support system for people with busier lives. Other accessories are also available including table accessories, additional creams and lotions, etc. Whatever accessories you choose, they will certainly add to the benefits of the essential oils.

Essential Oils in Medicine

A growing use for essential oils has been medicinal uses. While much is left to be proven about the medicinal properties of these oils, many claim healthy benefits. There are even studies being done on the effect they have on patients experiencing immense pain, and they are showing that oils have shown to help heal faster and work quicker than drugs.

In addition to traditional medicine, oils have shown helpful in the practice of alternative medicines as well; including holistic medicine. Holistic medicine takes into account all parts of a person when treating them. Body, mind, spirit, and emotions are all considered while trying to maximize health, not just treat minor ailments.

Safety Disclaimer

Essential oils have proven effective in treating both mind and body. However, it is important to keep in mind that these substances can be dangerous if not handled correctly. These are extremely concentrated substances that can be harmful. Most methods of using essential oils call for the oil to be diluted with a carrier oil. There are multiple carrier oils you can use; the important thing is they make the oils safe to handle. Finally, oils should not be handled by children, or be in reach of them. As long as proper precautions and methods are used, essential oils can benefit anyone.

Do you use essential oils? If so, which oil is your favorite?