How To Use Essential Oils For Relief

By Kenneth Schmidt


There are a number of conditions in which holistic medicine can be beneficial. Some of these are anxiety, depression, pain and terminal illness. As such, essential oils for relief is often a good option when experiencing these conditions. For, the essence of flora and fauna are used in place of dangerous chemicals found in most over the counter and pharmaceutical products.

These natural offerings are also known as aetherolea, ethereal, volatile and those named for the plant which the oil was derived. The term essential refers to the inner-essence of the plant as related to fragrance. Although, while similar, essential in this sense does not apply to essential amino or fatty acids. Unlike dietary supplements which can often have an interaction with pharmaceuticals and over the counter products, oils come from flora and fauna, so while there is a risk of allergy, drug interaction is often non-existent.

Unlike amino or fatty, essential oils are most often extracted by distillation. In most cases, the process uses steam to do so. Although, there are other methods. These include cold processing, resin tapping, absolute and solvent extraction and expression. Once extracted, the oils can be used in cleaning supplies, flavoring food and drink, creating incense, perfumes, soaps and cosmetics.

These essences have also been used in medicine for quite some time. In these cases, the products can be sold as remedies for a number of conditions. For example, many have been used in treatment related to cancer and other terminal illnesses. As a result, most countries have established strict rules, regulations and guidelines when it comes to using these natural essences as medication.

Interest had dwindled in relation to these products in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Since that time, it appears interest has seen somewhat of a revival, especially when it comes to the holistic health industry. One of the most common aspects of holistic health is that of Aromatherapy. As such, this natural healing form has contributed greatly to the future of essences as a valid medical treatment in the future.

In most cases, aromatherapy products are used in massage offices to create a more relaxed environment for clients. Although, there are also private individuals who offer services such as aromatherapy baths and body rubs which require no specialized licensing. While this is the case, it is always important to discuss any uncomfortable reactions to different scents during the process.

A good example of the four most commonly used essential oils are peppermint, lavender, tea tree oil and eucalyptus. All of these primary oils have been known to aid in creating an overall change in the body, mind and spirit. For example, peppermint has been known to increase energy, while lavender calms, tea tree oil is a great astringent and eucalyptus to aid in calming symptoms of cold and flu.

When it comes to humans, the earliest recorded history of anyone using methods and techniques to distract and produce essences is believed to have been done by Ibn a-Baitar, an Andalusian chemist, pharmacist and physician. Like in the days of Ibn, most are distilled using a single process. The only exception to this rule is when it comes to the ylang-ylang process in which it can take up to twenty two hours for fractional distillation to occur.




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