Top 5 Essential Oils

Again, I am still new to EO's (essential oils), but as I learn information and uses I will pass it on! 

Top 5 Essential Oils

#1: Lavender

If you are only going to pick 1 EO to start out with, this would be the one. Lavender has many therapeutic properties and can be applied directly to the skin for several ailments, including skin rashes, insect bites, acne and minor scrapes/burns. Lavender has a disinfectant property to it for the cuts/scrapes. This can also be added to homemade deodorant. Lavender is also helpful when it comes to sinus and chest congestion. Just add a few drops to steaming water for a steam inhale. Not to mention, Lavender has a wonderful aroma that is very calming and can help you relax at the end of a long day! 

#2: Tea Tree

This oil is another one that has multiple uses. Tea Tree oil has been called "a medicine cabinet in a bottle" since it has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral as well as strong antiseptic properties. This is one that you don't want to consume, but can be used for several common ailments such as athlete's foot, eczema, acne, cold sores, nail fungus, warts, insect bites, psoriasis and dandruff. By simply adding a few drops to water in a misting bottle will create a disinfectant spray for surfaces around your house including door handles, light switches, counter tops, etc. 

#3: Lemon

Lemon is one of the best oils to have on hand for several uses around the home. By adding a few drops to olive oil, you can make a great furniture polish. It can also be added to laundry detergent, dishwasher detergent, floor cleaners, spray cleaners etc, Lemon also has therapeutic uses. Add a few drops to a glass of water and gargle for bad breath. A few drops in a bath or in a diffuser can help alleviate stress. A few drops in shampoo will help alleviate dandruff. When mixed with aloe vera gel, it can make a nice smelling hand sanitizer. Just note that lemon will make your skin photosensitive. If using lemon on your skin, be sure to wait about 12 hours before being in the sun for extended periods of time. 

#4 Eucalyptus 

This oil is best known for its use with chest cold and congestion. It can be blended with other oils or used alone. Blending a few drops in a salve will create a wonderful rub that can be rubbed on your chest and throat. This can also ease asthma attacks. The same rub can be used on sore muscles and joints when rubbed onto the affected area. Adding a few drops to a damp comrpress and placing on the skin affected by shingles can help alleviate some pain as well as speed up healing. Eucalyptus also has some disinfectant properties, which make it a great EO to use in a spray around the kitchen and bathroom. 

#5 Chamomile

Chamomile is best known for its calming properties, both therapeutic an anti-inflammatory. Many people will drink chamomile tea before going to bed to help calm and relax them before going to sleep. Chamomile can be used topically, either diluted or undiluted for dry skin, eczema, dermatitis, acne, bee stings, cuts and bruises. Chamomile is great to diffuse in your home to alleviate stress and anxiety. It can even help with the irritability that comes with PMS or menopause. Take note, people who have an allergy to ragweed may not tolerate chamomile.