Essential oils of plants contain a rich spectrum of healing benefits. Ute Leube, a leading expert in the field, talks us through the astonishing effects of three classical essential oils.
The power of plants is timeless, tried and true.
The wisdom surrounding essential oils was passed down by countless generations over more than 5000 years, transcending cultures and communities.
Essential oils are the very essence of plants and are extremely concentrated, active and aromatic.
They deliver optimal benefits to both the skin and the senses.
Let’s have a look at three of the most classic and best known essential oils: lavender, peppermint and rose.
Lavender is used since centuries for its healing properties. It is excellent in dilution to soothe cuts, burns, insect bites and breakouts. Its relaxing and tension-relieving aromatherapeutic benefits are well-known and have recently been scientifically studied. Lavender is now used frequently in hospitals as an alternative to prescription sleep medication.
Refreshing and energizing, the essential oil of peppermints helps clear the mind. It makes for a perfect travel companion as it soothes nausea and motion sickness. You can also put a drop or two in sparkling water to drink: it will freshen your breath as well as having an invigorating and cooling effect on your body. Peppermint is also renowned for its ability to soothe the symptoms of headaches.
Rose is a very balancing essential oil with potent benefits for both the skin and senses. Rich in antioxidants, it is particularly ideal for maturing skin: it protects it from free radical age damage, softens the look of fine lines and encourages cell regeneration.
Rose also has significant aroma-therapeutic benefits: it brings balance during emotional ups-and-downs. The fine floral aroma not only smells beautiful but also facilitates 'letting go' of emotional hang-ups, heartbreaks and disappointments.
Isn't it almost unbelievable that simple plant aromas would have such powers?
Yet, they are well established and you will quickly feel the effects when you start using them.
I suggest you give it a try.
Lavender, Pepperment and Rose make a great ground stock of essential oils for your household. Getting started is easier than you may think.
A trusted retailer of natural and organic cosmetics can help you choose a pure, high quality product.
Also ask for an aroma stone. Back home - or in the office - put a few drops of your essential oil onto the stone and the agreeable smell will unfold its magic.
If you want to use essential oils in a large room, an aroma stone may not suffice and you may need an aroma lamp to spread the smell. But lamps are more expensive. I propose you try in a smaller room first.
Which essential oils do you love and how do you use them? You can post a comment below.
Ute Leube is the founder of two natural cosmetic companies, Primavera-Life and Amala.
A world leading expert in essential oils, she is a member of the NATRUE board, a true pioneer of our sector and a big inspiration to all who know her.
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