These potent oils can support good health in many ways
By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant
It may seem hard to believe that a tiny bottle of oil could affect how you feel, but they have grown in popularity.
The number of people using them is hard to estimate; however, according to Statista the worldwide market for essential oil is estimated to reach $6 billion by 2026.
Most topically applied, essential oils require a “carrier oil” such as olive oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, sweet almond oil and grapeseed oil to avoid skin irritation. A few varieties may be used in water (check the label before using) and some may be ingested. Always follow the directions carefully. Misusing essential oils can cause harm. Using more than recommended isn’t better and can be dangerous.
It’s also important to remember that any benefits derived from using essential oils should not replace medical care, medication or prescribed care. Patients should always discuss with their provider if they want to try essential oils to support their health.
“Essential oils are a concentrated, therapeutic compound,” said Lindsay Gaffney, certified herbalist studying for doctorate in naturopathy and owner of The Organic Earthling in Oswego. “They can have allergic reactions because they’re so strong so you want to use a patch test on the skin or use a carrier oil. People use it topically or aromatherapy by smelling it or using a diffuser. Some use it as a cleaning agent with vinegar or peroxide sprays.”
Other examples are placing a few drops on wool dryer balls to avoid using dryer sheets drenched in chemicals and using essential oils as a scent agent in homemade laundry detergent and homemade household cleaners.
“These cleaners and dryer sheets contribute to our toxin burden,” Gaffney said. “Some use it as an alternative to a perfume. Many perfumes have different chemicals that are safe in small doses but it all adds up to the toxin burden on the body.”
Gaffney recommends using essential oils to support good health for a variety of issues:
• Stuffy nose: peppermint
• Inflammation: peppermint
• Fatigue: peppermint
• Hair loss: rosemary
• Calming the central nervous system: patchouli, lavender, frankincense.
• Pain relief: frankincense
• Deterring pests like mosquitoes and ticks: tea tree, cedarwood
• Down mood: lemon
Gaffney said that it’s important to seek essential oils that are high quality.
“Pick something organic,” Gaffney said. “You don’t want that concentrated compound tainted with pesticides and herbicides. A reputable supplier is important too.”
She said that Young Living provides quality essential oil products, but since they’re sold through sales representatives, extra cost is added to the price. For example, Young Living’s frankincense is around $90-$100 and she sells it for $23.
Gaffney wants people interested in essential oil products to see therapeutic grade.