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| Understanding how essential oils can benefit your family life |
Understanding Essential Oils
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that are normally combined with a carrier oil for use. They can be used in a variety of ways including being applied to the skin or diffused in the air, but you need to use care to ensure appropriate dilutions and carrier solutions are used. They might come from natural products, but you shouldn’t underestimate their power. It is important they are used and stored safely and you should take expert advice before using them around young children, pregnant women or pets.
You have probably used essential oils and the natural power of plants many times without realising it. Maybe in those lavender bubble baths to help children relax before bed, vapor rub to help you breathe more easily when you are ill, or even sucking on a mint when you were experiencing morning sickness. The power of essential oils has become part of regular life and they are in many products, but for maximum effectiveness you should choose retailers that use quality ingredients and extraction methods.
While some extracts may be absorbed through the skin, the most popular use is through inhaling the aromas (aromatherapy). The scents can stimulate the part of your brain that influences emotions, behaviour, memory and basic functions such as breathing. While there may be disagreement in the scientific community about why (and how well) essential oils work, the long history of their use is convincing enough to make them worth trying.
Methods of Use
- One of the most popular ways to use essential oils is with a diffuser as it can be used to add a gentle scent to a room. An electric diffuser is a good idea for families rather than one with a flame, but you will still need to make sure it is out of reach of children as the oils can irritate the skin and cause damage to eyes.
- If you just need a quick boost you can inhale the essential oil directly from the bottle.
- If you want to use them on your skin you need to dilute the essential oils with a carrier oil. They can then be used for massage, added to skin cream or even bath water.
- Never ingest (eat or drink) essential oils or apply them undiluted to your skin.
Handy Uses for Essential Oils in Family Life
Conquering the Morning Rush
As a parent I find it’s rare to wake up feeling full of energy, but you don’t need to rely on coffee to give you a boost. Try a morning routine with the invigorating scent of peppermint and wild orange filling your kitchen. This energising combination helps shake off morning sluggishness and gets everyone moving with a bit more of a spring in their step.
Creating a Focus Friendly Environment
The after school hours can be particularly challenging, especially when trying to balance homework and studying for exams with much needed downtime. The right essential oils can help encourage focus, concentration or even creativity. Rosemary is a brilliant oil to try, but peppermint and lemon can both give a boost too.
The Evening Wind Down
It can be challenging going from a busy day to a peaceful bedtime for adults and children alike. Try adding a few drops of lavender to your diffuser during bath time, it will help create a spa-like atmosphere that will help everyone transition into evening mode. If anyone is struggling to unwind try a massage using chamomile oil (properly diluted with a carrier oil, of course).
Supporting Wellness
If you are starting to feel a cold coming on try adding a few drops of eucalyptus or tea tree to your shower, they can help you clear both your mind and airways. Essential oils are thought to be able to boost the immune system too so if everyone around you seems to have a cold try a protective blend using lemon and thyme.
As you begin exploring essential oils, remember that every family's needs are different; start small, find what works for your household and gradually build your collection.
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