Several years ago, I stumbled upon the fascinating world of essential oils. Intrigued by their potential, I began crafting my assortment of cleaning products, serums, creams, sprays, and much more.
The results were astounding, and I couldn’t help but delve deeper into the art of aromatherapy. Motivated by my newfound passion, I pursued a Diploma course in Aromatherapy, delving into the intricacies and wonders of these aromatic wonders. But my thirst for knowledge didn’t stop there – I went on to undertake an exhilarating Acupressure Aromatherapy course, further expanding my expertise in this captivating field.
Now, I’m thrilled to share my journey with all of you, as I believe it’s time we break free from chemical-laden, toxic products.
Let’s embark on this exciting adventure together and create our very own products, tailored to improve our well-being. Get ready to be inspired!
What are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that capture the natural aroma and beneficial properties of various plants. They are produced through a process known as steam distillation or cold pressing, depending on the plant material used.
Essential oils are composed of volatile compounds that give plants their characteristic fragrance. These compounds can be found in different parts of the plant, such as the flowers, leaves, bark, stems, or roots.
Common examples of essential oils include lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, tea tree, lemon, and chamomile.
People have been using essential oils for their aromatic and therapeutic properties for centuries. They are commonly used in aromatherapy, a holistic practice that promotes well-being and relaxation through the inhalation or topical application of essential oils.
Essential oils can also be used in various other applications, including personal care products, perfumes, cleaning products, and even in some culinary preparations.
It’s important to note that while essential oils have potential benefits, they should be used with care. Some essential oils can cause skin irritation or sensitization, and others may be toxic if ingested in large quantities.
It’s recommended to dilute essential oils properly before applying them to the skin.
Benefits of Essential Oils
Aromatherapy
Essential oils are frequently used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation, relieve stress, and improve mood. Different oils have varying aromatic profiles, and they can be used individually or in combination to create specific atmospheres or address particular concerns.
Skin Care: Many essential oils have properties that are beneficial for the skin. For example, tea tree oil is known for its antimicrobial properties and is commonly used in acne treatments, while lavender oil is often used for its soothing and calming effects on the skin.
Respiratory Health: Essential oils such as eucalyptus, peppermint, and tea tree are often used to support respiratory health. They can be diffused or inhaled to help alleviate congestion, coughs, and sinus discomfort.
Relaxation and Sleep: Certain essential oils, such as lavender, chamomile, and ylang-ylang, are believed to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. They can be used in diffusers, added to bathwater, or applied topically (diluted) to help induce a state of calmness.
Pain Relief: Some essential oils, like peppermint and ginger, have analgesic properties and may help alleviate minor aches and pains when applied topically. They can be used in massage oils or added to bath soaks.
Insect Repellent: Certain essential oils, such as citronella, lemongrass, and lavender, are known for their insect-repellent properties. They can be used in natural bug sprays or diffused to help keep insects at bay.
Relaxation and Self-Care: Engaging in self-care rituals involving essential oils, such as taking a bath with lavender oil or using a diffuser with a calming blend, can help create a relaxing environment and provide a sense of self-nurturing and well-being.
Emotional Balance: Some essential oils, such as frankincense and ylang-ylang, are often used to promote emotional balance and stability. They may help with managing feelings of sadness, anger, or emotional distress.
Mood Enhancement: Essential oils like citrus oils (such as orange and lemon) and peppermint are believed to have uplifting and mood-enhancing effects. They may help improve mood, boost energy, and provide a sense of emotional well-being.
Essential oils are commonly used in room sprays and diffusers to create pleasant and aromatic environments.
Here are some benefits associated with using essential oils in room sprays and diffusers:
Aromatherapy and Mood Enhancement: Essential oils are widely used in aromatherapy for their potential to influence mood and emotions. Diffusing essential oils or using them in room sprays can create a calming, uplifting, or energizing atmosphere, depending on the chosen oils.
Scents like lavender, citrus oils, peppermint, and eucalyptus are popular choices for relaxation, stress relief, and promoting a positive ambiance.
Air Freshening: Essential oils offer a natural alternative to synthetic and toxic air fresheners. When used in room sprays or diffusers, they can help eliminate unpleasant odors and replace them with natural and pleasant aromas. Oils like lemon, tea tree, and pine are often used for their refreshing and deodorizing properties.
Improved Focus and Concentration: Some essential oils, such as rosemary, lemon, and peppermint, are believed to enhance mental clarity, focus, and concentration. Using these oils in a workspace or study area through diffusers or room sprays may help increase productivity and mental alertness.
Stress Relief: Aromatherapy with essential oils has been associated with stress reduction. Oils like bergamot, clary sage, and ylang-ylang are often used to create a relaxing atmosphere and promote a sense of tranquility and well-being.
Aesthetic Appeal: In addition to their therapeutic benefits, essential oils can add a pleasant and inviting aroma to a space, enhancing the overall sensory experience.
Choosing oils with scents that are personally appealing can contribute to a more enjoyable environment.
Skin Care
Antimicrobial Properties: Many essential oils possess antimicrobial properties that can help combat bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms on the skin. Tea tree oil, for example, is known for its antibacterial properties and is often used in products targeting acne-prone skin.
Soothing and Calming: Some essential oils, such as lavender and chamomile, have soothing and calming effects on the skin. They may help alleviate redness, inflammation, and skin irritations, making them suitable for sensitive or reactive skin types.
Antioxidant Protection: Several essential oils, such as rosemary, frankincense, and geranium, contain antioxidants that can help protect the skin against free radical damage caused by environmental factors. Antioxidants can support overall skin health and may have anti-aging effects.
Moisturizing and Hydrating: Certain essential oils, including jojoba oil, rosehip seed oil, and argan oil, are often used in skin care products for their moisturizing and hydrating properties. They can help nourish the skin, improve moisture retention, and promote a soft, supple complexion.
Brightening and Clarifying: Essential oils like lemon, grapefruit, and bergamot are known for their brightening and clarifying effects on the skin. They may help even out skin tone, fade hyperpigmentation, and promote a more radiant complexion.
Exfoliation and Renewal: Some essential oils, such as tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil, possess exfoliating properties that can help remove dead skin cells and promote skin renewal. They may be used in facial scrubs or masks to enhance skin texture and radiance.
Aromatherapeutic Effects: The pleasant aromas of essential oils can have a positive impact on mood and well-being.
Incorporating essential oils with
appealing scents, like rose, lavender, or neroli, into skincare routines can enhance the overall sensory experience and promote relaxation.
When using essential oils in skincare, it’s important to dilute them properly in carrier oils or other suitable mediums, perform a patch test on a small area of skin before widespread use, and discontinue use if any irritation or adverse reactions occur.
Who shouldn’t use Essential Oils?
Infants and Young Children: Babies under three months old have delicate and sensitive skin, and their bodies may not metabolize essential oils properly. For infants and young children, it’s best to consult with a pediatrician before using essential oils, and it’s generally recommended to avoid applying them directly to their skin or using them in diffusers.
Pregnant Women: Some essential oils have the potential to affect hormone levels, uterine contractions, or blood flow, which may pose risks during pregnancy. Pregnant women should consult with their healthcare provider before using essential oils to ensure the safety of themselves and their unborn child.
Individuals with Allergies or Sensitivities: People with known allergies or sensitivities to specific plants or aromatic compounds should be cautious when using essential oils. Some oils can trigger allergic reactions or skin irritations. It’s advisable to perform a patch test on a small area of skin before using an essential oil more widely.
Individuals with Asthma or Respiratory Conditions: Certain essential oils, particularly strong or stimulating ones like eucalyptus or peppermint, may trigger respiratory symptoms in individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils, especially for inhalation purposes, if you have a respiratory condition.
Individuals with Medical Conditions or Taking Medications: Essential oils can potentially interact with certain medications or exacerbate certain medical conditions. If you have a specific health condition or are taking medications, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils to ensure there are no contraindications.
Pets: Essential oils can be toxic to pets, especially cats and smaller animals. Some essential oils, such as tea tree oil, citrus oils, and eucalyptus oil, can be harmful to pets if ingested or applied directly to their skin. It’s crucial to keep essential oils out of the reach of pets and consult with a veterinarian for guidance on using essential oils safely around animals.
Room spray recipes
Relaxing Lavender Spray:
2 ounces of distilled water
10 drops of lavender essential oil
5 drops of chamomile essential oil
1 teaspoon of witch hazel (optional, helps emulsify the oils)
Mix all the ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well before each use. Spray the mist in your bedroom or living space to create a calming and relaxing ambiance.
Energizing Citrus Burst:
2 ounces of distilled water
10 drops of sweet orange essential oil
5 drops of lemon essential oil
3 drops of grapefruit essential oil
Combine all the ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well before each use. This uplifting blend is perfect for revitalising your space and boosting your mood.
Fresh and Clean Spray:
2 ounces of distilled water
8 drops of lavender essential oil
6 drops of lemon essential oil
4 drops of tea tree essential oil
Mix the ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well. This combination can help freshen up your home and create a clean-smelling environment.
Christmas Spice Spray:
2 ounces of distilled water
6 drops of cinnamon essential oil
4 drops of orange essential oil
4 drops of clove essential oil
2 drops of nutmeg essential oil
Combine all the ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well before use. This warm and cosy blend is perfect for creating a festive atmosphere during the Christmas season.
Remember to shake the spray bottle before each use to disperse the essential oils evenly. You can adjust the number of drops based on your preference for a lighter or stronger aroma.
It’s also a good idea to perform a patch test on a small area before spraying on fabrics or surfaces to ensure compatibility.
Enjoy creating your personalised room sprays!
Hand and Body Cream
Moisturizing Lavender Hand and Body Cream
Ingredients:
1/4 cup shea butter
1/4 cup coconut oil
1 tablespoon sweet almond oil
10 drops of lavender essential oil
Optional: 5 drops of chamomile essential oil
Instructions:
In a bowl on top of a pan of boiling water, melt the shea butter and coconut oil together until fully melted.
Remove from heat and add the sweet almond oil. Stir well to combine.
Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then add the lavender essential oil (and chamomile essential oil, if using). Stir again.
Transfer the mixture to a clean container or jar.
Let the hand and body cream solidify and cool completely before using.
Apply a small amount of the hand cream to your hands or body and massage gently until absorbed.
If using a citrus oil these can be phototoxic when applied to skin that is then exposed to sunlight. Phototoxic effects may include redness, blistering, and rash.
Nourishing Citrus Hand and Body Cream
Ingredients:
1/4 cup cocoa butter
1/4 cup shea butter
1 tablespoon jojoba oil
10 drops of sweet orange essential oil
5 drops of lemon essential oil
Optional: 3 drops of bergamot essential oil.
Instructions:
In a bowl on top of a pan of boiling water, melt the cocoa butter and shea butter together until fully melted.
Remove from heat and add the jojoba oil. Stir well to combine.
Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then add the sweet orange essential oil (and lemon and bergamot essential oils, if using). Stir again.
Transfer the mixture to a clean container or jar.
Let the hand cream solidify and cool completely before using.
Apply a small amount of the cream to your hands or body and massage gently until absorbed.
Note: These recipes provide a general guideline, but feel free to adjust the ingredient quantities and essential oil drops based on your preference.
Additionally, ensure that you are not allergic or sensitive to any of the ingredients used in the recipes.
If irritation occurs, discontinue use.
If using a citrus oil these can be phototoxic when applied to skin that is then exposed to sunlight. Phototoxic effects may include redness, blistering, and rash.
Cleaning products recipes
All-Purpose Cleaner:
Ingredients:
2 cups water
1/4 cup white vinegar
10 drops of your preferred essential oil (e.g., lemon, tea tree, lavender)
Instructions:
Combine all the ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well to mix.
Use this mixture to clean countertops, sinks, tiles, and other surfaces in your home.
Window and Glass Cleaner:
Ingredients:
1 cup water
1 cup white vinegar
10 drops of lemon essential oil
Instructions:
Mix all the ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well.
Spray the solution onto glass surfaces, such as windows and mirrors.
Wipe with a clean cloth or newspaper for a streak-free shine.
Disinfecting Surface Spray:
Ingredients:
2 cups water
1/4 cup white vinegar
10 drops of tea tree essential oil
5 drops of eucalyptus essential oil
5 drops of lavender essential oil
Instructions:
Combine all the ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well.
Spray the solution on surfaces to disinfect and kill germs.
Allow it to sit for a few minutes before wiping it clean.
Bathroom Cleaner:
Ingredients:
1/2 cup baking soda
1/4 cup liquid castile soap
10 drops of tea tree essential oil
10 drops of lemon essential oil
Water (as needed for desired consistency)
Instructions:
In a bowl, mix the baking soda and liquid castile soap to form a paste.
Add the tea tree and lemon essential oils and mix well.
If the mixture is too thick, add a small amount of water until desired consistency is reached.
Apply the paste to surfaces in the bathroom, such as tubs, tiles, and sinks.
Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub and rinse thoroughly.
Remember to label your homemade cleaning products appropriately and keep them out of reach of children.
Essential oils can be potent, so always perform a patch test on a small area before using them on delicate surfaces or materials.
As it is summer I have included mosquito repellent recipes!
I also use Neem in all these recipes, which is amazing but it stinks! Lol, but once mixed with other oils you can’t really smell it, and you only need 3/4 drops, it really does keep those mosquitos away!
But thought I would give you the option to try it yourself, but I highly recommend it.
Simple Mosquito Repellent Spray
Ingredients:
2 ounces of distilled water
2 ounces of witch hazel or rubbing alcohol
20 drops of essential oil(s) of your choice (e.g., citronella, lemongrass, eucalyptus, lavender)
Instructions:
In a spray bottle, combine the distilled water and witch hazel or rubbing alcohol.
Add 20 drops of your chosen essential oil(s) to the mixture.
Shake well before each use.
Spray the repellent on your exposed skin, clothing, and the surrounding area to deter mosquitoes.
Mosquito Repellent Lotion
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons of a carrier oil (e.g., coconut oil, jojoba oil) I recommend coconut oil as that helps keep the mozzies away but have added other oils in case you don’t like it or you are allergic to it.
10 drops of citronella essential oil
5 drops of lavender essential oil
5 drops of eucalyptus essential oil
Instructions:
In a small container, combine the carrier oil and the essential oils.
Mix well until thoroughly combined.
Apply a small amount of the lotion to exposed skin, such as arms and legs, before heading outdoors.
Additionally, reapply the repellent as needed, especially if you’re spending an extended period outdoors or if you’ve been sweating or swimming.
Mosquito Repellent Diffuser Blend
Ingredients:
3 drops of citronella essential oil
3 drops of lemongrass essential oil
2 drops of eucalyptus essential oil
Instructions:
Add the essential oils to a diffuser.
Fill the diffuser with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Turn on the diffuser and let it disperse the aroma to repel mosquitoes.
A quick fix!
Rosemary: This essential oil is often associated with memory enhancement and cognitive function. It has been traditionally used for its stimulating and memory-boosting properties.
The aroma of rosemary oil is believed to improve mental clarity, concentration, and focus.
Place one drop of rosemary in your palm gently rub together and place your hands over your nose and take some nice deep breaths, keeping your eyes closed.
Sweet Orange: The fresh and invigorating scent of sweet orange essential oil is often associated with happiness and cheerfulness.
It can help uplift the mood, reduce stress, and create a positive atmosphere.
Place one drop of Sweet Orange in your palm gently rub together and place your hands over your nose and take some nice deep breaths, keeping your eyes closed.
Ylang-Ylang: Ylang-ylang essential oil has a rich and sweet floral fragrance that is often used to promote relaxation and emotional well-being.
It can help alleviate feelings of stress, anxiety, and sadness, promoting a sense of joy and happiness.
Place one drop of ylang-ylang in your palm gently rub together and place your hands over your nose and take some nice deep breaths, keeping your eyes closed.
Grapefruit: Grapefruit essential oil has a refreshing and energising citrus scent that is known to promote a positive mood.
It can help uplift the spirits, boost energy levels, and reduce feelings of tension and anxiety.
Place one drop of grapefruit in your palm gently rub together and place your hands over your nose and take some nice deep breaths, keeping your eyes closed.
Lemon: Lemon essential oil has a bright and invigorating aroma that can help uplift the mood and promote mental clarity.
It is often used to reduce stress and create a positive and cheerful ambiance.
Place one drop of Lemon in your palm gently rub together and place your hands over your nose and take some nice deep breaths, keeping your eyes closed.
Peppermint: Peppermint essential oil is well-known for its refreshing and cooling aroma.
It can help awaken the senses, promote mental alertness, and provide a natural energy boost. Inhaling peppermint oil or applying it topically (properly diluted) can help combat fatigue and increase focus.
Place one drop of peppermint in your palm, gently rub together and place your hands over your nose and take some nice deep breaths, keeping your eyes closed.
It’s important to note that essential oils are highly concentrated and should be used with caution.
Perform a patch test before applying them to your skin and follow proper dilution guidelines.
If you have any underlying health conditions or concerns, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils.
Well, I hope I have inspired some of you to purchase your own essential oils and carrier oils, so go have some fun and create your own concoctions and enjoy the amazing aromas of essential oils.
I will be giving Face Serum and cream recipes very soon in part 2 of Essential Oils.