As more and more people turn to natural approaches to healthcare, essential oils have taken center stage. No wonder their prices have continued to go up day in day out. However, you do not need to worry about the cost because you can make your essential oil at home. There are various methods of extracting essential oils from plants. Some of these methods include distillation, solvent extraction, and cold pressing by using oil extracting machine such as the CO2 extraction machines. The simple distillation method is the easiest and fastest. It can easily be applied at home. So, why do you need essential oils? Here are a few advantages of essential oils
They are Used in Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is a form of natural treatment where aromatic essential oils are used to cure certain ailments such as stress and anxiety. You inhale these oils and get healed. Being volatile, these oils are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream through the nostrils. Once absorbed, the aroma in these oils sends signals to the brain that keeps various body hormones in balance, keeping you in the pink of health. Aromatherapy has been supported in many parts of the world as an alternative form of medicine for those who like going natural when it comes to healthcare.
They Boost the Immune System
On top of helping you relax and sleep soundly, essential oils also boost your immune system. Some essential oils such as peppermint, tea tree, cinnamon, and frankincense essential oils have antibacterial and antifungal properties that relieve pain and inflammation and keep skin irritations at bay.
They are Added to Perfumes and Cosmetics
Essential oils are rich in aroma compounds from the parent plant. That is why they are used in perfumes. The sweet scent of many cosmetic products also comes from essential oils. In the same line of thought, they are used to add scent to incense as well as household cleaning products. They are safer alternatives to air freshening candles at home.
Used to Add Flavor to Foods and Drinks
Essential oils make the kitchen a culinary playground. They add various flavors to foods and drinks that make them more delicious. However, you need to choose the essential oils to add to foods and beverages carefully. Some essential oils may be too concentrated or simply unpalatable. Cinnamon, thyme, lavender, ginger, and peppermint are some of the most commonly used essential oils for cooking. Use these oils in moderation, because a little drop goes a long way.
Essential Oils are Also Used as Pesticides
Some pests cannot stand the smell of some essential oils. Research has shown that lemongrass, lavender, eucalyptus, and peppermint essential oils inhibit the growth of some insects and arthropods. These oils may not be as effective in controlling pests as the conventional pesticides. However, they are more economical and eco-friendly and are therefore more preferable in this era of global warming.
In summary, essential oils are essential to the overall health status of a human being. They may be expensive, but since you can make yours at home, you should make a habit of using these oils for various applications at home and in the workplace.