Essential Oils - a Luxury or an Essential?

Oils derived from natural plant matter have been used for centuries dating as far back as the Egyptians to the Ancient Greeks and Romans. History should tell us that there really is something to these natural compounds that are found in plant seeds, bark, roots and stems. When used to their full potential (applied topically, aromatheraputically, or internally) they can produce a wide range of benefits both physically and emotionally. But with all of the medicines, cleansers and “magic pills” that exist today are these oils still essential to our daily needs or simply a luxury?

Each essential oil has their own distinct properties that are beneficial to our mind and body, and when blended together can do wonders! A client of mine introduced me to oils, and I must say I am extremely impressed by how effective and versatile just 3 basic oils can be. I started with lemon, peppermint and lavender to test the waters. Lemon oil in my trusty water bottle has not only acted as an antimicrobial, but just 1 drop of oil into 16oz of water transforms my 40th oz of water for the day into a refreshing citrus beverage and mood lifter! Lavender has helped me unwind from my busiest days leaving me with the soundest sleep I have ever gotten and peppermint is my new favorite energy supplement! Just a dab massaged into my temples instantly awakens and refreshes my perspective on the task at hand.  One of my favorite things about the oils is how versatile they are. Thanks to the antibacterial properties of many of these oils, I have been able to get rid of nearly every household cleaner – I must admit I am very impressed with the cleaning solution I found for my wood floors at the cycling studio! Plus, they smell amazing and don’t leave any harsh residues or chemicals behind.

Essential oils can be profoundly simple and life changing for some – you can literally replace every item in your medicine cabinet with 100 percent pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils. Now a little goes A LONG way with these oils, and since most of them can be used several ways it is easy to become addicted! But what do you think? I am always curious to try new things, and with all the additives, chemicals and fillers in our world these oils seemed like a no-nonsense answer to our highly compounded pharmaceutically driven culture.

Have you tried essential oils? Do you find them to be essential? Or a luxury in addition to the cleaners, air fresheners and topical solutions you can find bottled conveniently at every store. I am partial to the DōTERRA line of oils, but I know there are several others out there. Please share what you have used oils for; or if you are curious on learning more about these natural beauties feel free to reach out to me!