by Irini Kotroni

Created on: May 05, 2010   Last Updated: January 04, 2012

Essential oils are natural and without any additives.They don't need them as they have their own chemical makeup.  A good example of this is to take a lemon and rub your fingers over the peel, a little oil will now be on your fingers, put them to your nose and inhale that wonderful lemony aroma.

This is one of the simple benefits of essential oil.  Citrus fruit oils are uplifting and are marvellous to have around during the cold, dark, wet winter months.  Put a few drops of any citrus oil, one favourite is lime oil, onto a handkerchief and then put your handkerchief to your nose and breathe in the aroma.  It helps to banish those winter blues as it brings to mind long, hot summer days, outdoor meals and in general a sense of enjoying oneself with the family and friends.  Try and have an aromatherapy massage using citrus oils during the winter months to boost your mind and body.

The ancient civilisations of Egypt, Greece and Rome were clever in using anything natural to relieve and cure health problems.  They didn’t have to hand all the artificial additives that are now available.  Thankfully all the traditions and blends have been recorded and this knowledge has been passed down to the present day.   Regrettably some oils have been mass produced to try and fulfil the trend for holistic remedies.  These oils are cheap and not as effective as the oils that have been made using natural formulas.  Buy oils from a reputable supplier who will also advise you on what each oil can do.

Lavender oil has always been known to be a soothing, relaxing oil that is effective in calming the mind and body but how many people know it can be used to relieve scalds and burns?  It is also one of the cheaper oils as it is grown in great quantities and can be easily harvested.  Carry a bottle in your bag or briefcase as an instant first aid treatment for cuts and relieving headaches.

Tea tree is very similar to lavender in that it is a good antiseptic oil.  This is a good oil to have in a sports or gym bag as it helps improve bacterial and fungi infections such as Athletes Foot and helps soothe blisters. 

There are several oils that help the respiratory system; three popular ones are pine, eucalyptus and peppermint.  It is easy to understand why this is by just imagining taking a walk in a forest.  Think of the sunlight filtering through the density of the trees and inhale the refreshing aroma

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>