The Essentials of Essential Oils  

Maybe you’ve heard about essential oils, but don’t know much about them. Or you started exploring the topic, and felt overwhelmed by the staggering amount of information out there. While the world of essential oils feels huge, have no fear. Using essential oils requires some knowledge, but once you get the hang of it, they’re a pleasure to use

What are essential oils?

Essential oils are plant-based oils found in any part of a plant — bark, leaves, or petals. These highly concentrated pockets of oil are extracted through steam or pressure. This is where the term “essential oils” comes from — the oils were thought to capture the essence of the plant from which they were derived.

These oils have been used since the dawn of time for a variety of purposes ranging from cosmetic to healing. Even today, essential oils are thought to have healing properties, with research suggesting they can reduce inflammation, modulate immune function, and release muscle spasms. Other studies suggest they can improve memory and sleep, as well as relieve some symptoms of anxiety and depression.

While promising, most of the current scientific research is inconclusive. Still, essential oils are pleasurable and luxurious to use, and people who use them often see positive results.

Which oils should I use?

There are more than 200 essential oils, each with their own unique properties, making it hard to choose only a few to start with. The ones listed here are among the ones most commonly used. Start with a few basic oils and slowly build your collection over time.