How to Use 11 Common Essential Oils

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By HS Schulte
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Use 11 Common Essential Oils

Essential oils have been used throughout history, for a variety of reasons from simply enjoying their smell to treating health conditions. Essential oils can be added to bath water, inhaled through steam, added to carrier oils for application to skin, heated for aroma, or used in recipes or crafts. Below is a list of 11 of the most common essential oils and their uses.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Lavender
Lavender is one of the most widely used essential oils. It is used to add fragrance to cosmetics, soaps and perfumes, or to freshen the air in your home. Medicinally, it can be used to treat stomach conditions. It is also commonly used in homemade insect repellents.
Step 2

Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is very effective in treating respiratory problems including, bronchitis, croup, and asthma. It is commonly used in over the counter medications including liniments, inhalants, ointments and cough syrups. It can also be used as a home remedy for fever and skin conditions.
Step 3

Orange
Orange oil is often used in homemade cleaning products, soaps, and detergents. Citrus oils are very effective as cleaning agents. It can also be used in perfumes or aroma therapy.
Step 4

Patchouli
This oil is used for preparation of cologne and personal care products with a masculine scent. Patchouli was historically believed to prevent the spread of disease.
Step 5

Peppermint
Mint has been used throughout history as a flavoring ingredient. It can be used to flavor homemade toothpastes. It also smells great and can add a minty aroma. Medicinally, it is used for indigestion, nausea and other stomach ails, sore throat, headache, and toothache.
Step 6

Spearmint
The properties of spearmint resemble peppermint, but are milder. Due to it's mild nature, spearmint is frequently used in the medicinal treatment of children. It is also used for flavoring, scent and stomach discomfort.
Step 7

Lemon
The oil can be used in homemade cleaning products. It is valued for it's ability to clean and for its citrus odor. It has been used historically, in Europe, as a cure-all for common ailments.
Step 8

Citronella
Citronella is the most frequently used essential oil for homemade insect repellents. It may also be used to treat skin conditions such as oily skin and excessive perspiration.
Step 9

Rosewood
Rosewood is the perfect oil for making homemade perfume. Has a enjoyable floral smell and is also enjoyable for aroma therapy.
Step 10

Pine
Pine has antiseptic and disinfecting properties and is commonly used in homemade soaps, detergents, and clean agents. It is also commonly used in insect repellents. It has a pleasant, woody, aroma and can be used for adding fragrance or aroma therapy.
Step 11

Tea Tree
Tea Tree oil has been studied extensively and proven to combat bacteria, fungus and viruses. It is a powerful stimulant of the immune system and is frequently used to treat illness. Due to it's properties it is also very effective in homemade cleaning products, soaps, toothpastes and deodorants. It can be used as an effective treatment for skin problems and infections.