Essential oils have long been thought to have many health benefits, but when used improperly, they can pose a huge risk to our lives. Take a look at this article to list the main benefits of the following essential oils and common mistakes you should avoid. Most people make mistake 3!
Benefits 1. Relieves stress
In aromatherapy, essential oils are widely used for their therapeutic effects. The scent extracted from the plant can greatly reduce stress and anxiety. If you don't have time for a massage, a few drops of essential oil on your neck or chest can achieve the same effect.
Benefits 2. Helps get rid of fungal infections
In addition to the sedative effect, essential oils have antifungal and antibacterial properties that help you stay away from bacteria and viruses.
Benefits 3. Improve your concentration
Essential oils stimulate areas in the limbic system of the brain that control alertness and memory, allowing you to stay focused. After inhaling some of the essential oils of your choice, you will feel energetic at work.
Error 1. Leave the diffuser on for a few hours
It is generally safe to use essential oils and essential oil diffusers, as long as you do not overuse them. Prolonged opening of the diffuser may cause headaches, increased blood pressure, and allergic reactions. It is recommended that the duration of each session be 30 to 60 minutes.
Error 2. Use undiluted essential oils
As a highly concentrated plant extract, essential oils may cause adverse reactions when in direct contact with the skin. If your skin is sensitive, dilute them with carrier oils such as olive oil and coconut oil.
Myth three, ignoring the quality of essential oils
Since essential oils are not regulated by the FDA and therefore do not have quality guidelines, you need to make additional choices about the brand you choose. You should seek safer, purer oil from industry leaders.
Mistake four: Use photosensitive essential oils in sunlight
In case you don't know, some essential oils are photosensitive, which means they react chemically in sunlight. If you use them and expose your skin to the sun, chemical reactions can cause redness, itching, and even burns and blisters.
Error 5. Use essential oils around your pet
If there are dogs or cats around your house, beware, as essential oils can be toxic to them. Remember to keep essential oils and diffusers away from your pets and make sure your home is well ventilated.
Mistake six: Improper storage of essential oils
If you store essential oils in light-colored bottles, they may degrade over time because their exposure to sunlight alters their composition. Use dark glass bottles instead to prevent oil spoilage. In addition, unlike steel, plastic, and many other materials, glass is not reactive.
Error 7. Assume that the more the merrier
Just because your essential oil has many therapeutic properties doesn't mean you can use it as much as you want. Inhaling too much essential oil can lead to migraines, nausea, and even asthma attacks.
Mistake Eight: Clean up spills with water first
When dealing with essential oil spills, many people may turn to water first. However, this has almost no effect, as the oil is insoluble in water. You should use a carrier oil to dilute the residue.
Mistake Nine: Ignoring age limits
Not every essential oil is suitable for children, as children's skin is more sensitive than that of adults. Pay special attention to any age restrictions before using it for your child.
Error 10. Recommend essential oils to everyone
While essential oils are generally safe and natural, they are not suitable for everyone. They can be harmful to people with asthma, sensitive skin, and respiratory diseases. So think twice before recommending it to your friends and family.