Six oils that are essential to our health

You may have tried aloe vera for your sunburn, melatonin for your lack of sleep, or protein shakes to try and get in shape. But what you may not have tried for any of these were essential oils, which can be used for all of the above and much more.

Essential oils are an alternative therapy that dates back to ancient Egyptian and Chinese cultures. They have myriad uses, such as supporting our immune systems, aiding in pain relief, settling an upset stomach, or even improving mental well-being. These highly concentrated and potent liquids can help you when you are exercising, looking to find some calm, needing a good night’s rest or can even help you breathe more easily after catching a cold.

Chances are you’ve used essential oils and didn’t realize it. You may have tried facial cleansers with tea tree oil to treat acne, or used a chest rub with eucalyptus to clear congestion.

Here are some essential oils to know about that can be used therapeutically.

Lavender

Lavender oil is one of the most commonly used and versatile oils. Lavender can be used to help with relaxation and sleep or with skin irritations. When diluted with carrier oils, lavender can also be applied to the skin to help treat minor wounds and burns, including sunburns, insect bites and itchiness.

Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is commonly known for its antimicrobial properties. It can be used as an antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral treatment, and to eliminate lice and minimize acne. The tea tree oil is typically applied to the skin, nails and hair, but should not be ingested.

Eucalyptus

For those trying to increase their performance during workouts, eucalyptus has been found to be an effective exercise aid. Eucalyptus can help open the airways and therefore can be inhaled during training sessions.

Peppermint oil

Cooling peppermint oil may be used to relieve nausea, and also treat muscular aches and pains. When applied to the temples, peppermint oil helps reduce headaches.

Lemon Oil

Lemon oil, like tea tree oil, has antiviral properties and can be sprayed in the home during cold and flu seasons.

Chamomile

Chamomile, the same flower used in the popular herbal tea, has anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory qualities, and may provide relief from menstrual cramps and stress.

Keep in mind that, even though these oils come from common spices and foods, they are not always safe to ingest or use on the skin. They can be harmful when ingested straight from the bottle, applied directly to the eyes, nose or anywhere else internal, and in most cases should be diluted with carrier oils before use. This is not to say that essential oils are dangerous, but that they can have medicinal qualities and should be treated with the same care as any other medicine.

Once you discover the power of these oils, you may soon find them, well, essential to maintaining good health.

Steve Bernardi is a registered compounding pharmacist at Johnson Compounding & Wellness in Waltham (www.naturalcompounder.com). Readers with questions about natural or homeopathic medicine, compounded medications, or health in general can email steve@naturalcompounder.com or call 781-893-3870.