Essential oils are plant extracts - but we think they have more power than that.
Essential oils are believed by many to have influence over our minds and bodies, supporting positive mental and physical well being.
These oils are amazing, natural things and people spend a lifetime learning how to use them effectively. Here we're going to give you a snapshot of what they are the benefits they're believed to have.
What are essential oils?
Essential oils are made by steaming or pressing parts of a plant (that could be wood, leaves, seeds or stems) to collect the oils that produce a delicious scent. The amount of oil you gather depends on the plant you're using, but it can take a fair amount of a plant material to produce a single bottle of essential oil.
How are essential oils used in aromatherapy?
As it's name suggests, Aromatherapy involves using essential oils for healing and therapeutic benefit. For example, when inhaled, some scents can have positive impact on parts of the brain associated with emotional responses. Other scents, like lavender are used to support relaxation and improve sleep quality.
When a few drops are applied to the skin, essential oils can be used to increase the rate of repair. Massage therapists may even use it to relax tense muscles.
How should you use essential oils?
At Chiswick Candle Company, we use essential oils in our candles because of the aromatherapy benefit, but also because they provide a natural alternative to synthetic (sometimes harmful) scents you see on the market in candles, creams and perfumes. For us, the more natural the better.
Which essential oils should I use?
There are dozens of essential oils, all with different fragrances and chemical makeups. Which essential oils are best depends on what symptoms you're looking to ease or fragrances you prefer. Some of the most popular essential oils include:
Lavender: This is a classic. Lavender has been used for centuries as a way to relax . It's often used to help relieve stress and to promote good sleep.
Tea tree: Also used in ancient medicine, but today it's commonly used for skin treatments like acne, athlete's foot and insect bites.
Peppermint: Like lavender, peppermint oil is believed to relieve tension headaches when applied on the skin.
Lemon: Citrussy smells are said to impact mood and promote an atmosphere of freshness.
Essential oils can lift your mood with just a whiff of their fragrance.
Whilst the science isn't conclusive on the topic, some people swear by their ability to alleviate the symptoms of various conditions. Be sure to check in with a doctor before self treating with essential oils. Rather, we like to use their incredible scent profiles to add freshness and ambience to a living space through gentle burning.
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