These days, many people are turning to natural remedies for solutions to everyday issues. If you’ve never dabbled in the realm of herbs and essential oils, it can be overwhelming to know where to start, as there are thousands of options to choose from. However, you don’t have to go overboard to enjoy the benefits of a more natural approach. These tips can help you choose and use some tried and true options.
Popular Natural Herbs and Essential Oils
There are dozens of herbs and essential oils out there, plus countless more combinations that are designed to support specific areas of health and wellness. However, there are some options that remain the standard because they are so widely used. If you’re new to this topic, these herbs and oils are a good place to start.
Peppermint
Peppermint is a staple in modern baking and cooking, especially around the holidays. You’ll find variations of it in many oral care products and chewing gums because of its ability to freshen breath. However, it offers many more benefits, including being used in herbal medicine to help treat digestive upset. Most often, peppermint is used in herbal medicine to help increase bile flow and is used as a diuretic. Peppermint is a key ingredient in detox tea and even some supplements and medications for gastrointestinal health.
Eucalyptus
The oil from this plant provides a strong yet soothing fragrance that is often synonymous with a trip to the spa. It’s typically recommended to help promote relaxation, as well as to open up the nasal passages, which can be very helpful when you’re feeling congested. It’s full of healthful antioxidants and has also been shown to support good dental health. It can even be used as a natural insect repellent to help keep your yard and home pest-free.
Lavender
One of the most popular and readily available essential oils out there, lavender has been used for thousands of years for numerous benefits. In some cases, it can help promote relaxation and a sense of calm, so it is often recommended to support a good night’s sleep. In some situations, it can be soothing to the skin and may be helpful to those with sensitive skin. Many people also enjoy the pleasant floral fragrance and use it in scented skin care products, when washing linens, or just to add fragrance to their home.
Tea Tree Oil
This topical oil is known for its ability to support healthy skin, thanks to its antioxidant and antibacterial properties. For these reasons, tea tree oil can be used in many ways, including as a natural hand cleanser or to treat pesky acne breakouts. The smell is strong and may take some getting used to, but it can be effective at repelling unwanted insects.
Using Natural Herbs and Oils the Right Way
There are many practical applications for natural herbs and oils. You can certainly get creative with the many ways you can use them in your life.
To Support Wellness
In some cases, these plant-based products can either be ingested or applied directly to the skin to support various systems of the body. These should be food-grade or created for this type of use. Often, they are diluted first by mixing them with a natural carrier oil (such as coconut oil) or adding them to a glass of water.
For a Good Cleaning
The antimicrobial properties of many herbs and essential oils make them excellent alternatives to harsh chemical cleaners. You can search online for a variety of recipes to mix up your own natural cleaners at home. Consider storing them in glass amber bottles instead of plastic ones. This prevents the oils from wearing down the container and helps them maintain their beneficial properties
A Note About Safety
Even natural herbs and oils are still very powerful. Always read the product instructions before ingesting natural herbs or oils and follow them explicitly. Do not use more than is recommended and do not consume or apply a product that is not intended for that purpose. Otherwise, you could risk irritation and even harm to your body.
Adding more natural products to your daily routine can be a great choice. When used the right way, they can provide numerous benefits.
