Health & Fitness

Just Breathe: Aromatherapy Works

Do you ever wonder why many people enjoy mass marketing products such as Vicks Vaporub or Pine Sol? It’s usually the scent. Even people browsing the dishsoap aisle in the grocery store will pop lids open to take a whiff of the scent that appeals to them before they make a purchase.


Just Breathe: Aromatherapy Works


Household products use the basics of aromatherapy to sell you something you will love, but do you also notice that do-it-yourself websites and books will offer recipes on cleaning products that are made with 100% essential oils, almost surprised that something so simple can be effective? Check out the ingredients on the bottles. Chances are, you will find essential oils listed. If you do, you can usually just take that element and use it alone to enjoy its natural benefits!


The natural scent and properties in essential oils have been used for thousands of years, dating back to ancient Egypt and China, and perhaps even further back to the dawn of civilization in Mesopotamia. People have used these oils to heal, enhance their well-being, use as perfumes, and for cleaning.


Even Oprah dedicated a page to products that smell great, and guess what – surprise! – they all have properties of essential oils. Check it out, as these products contain oils from grapefruit, lavender, chamomile, coconut, citronella, spruce, and others.


https://www.oprah.com/home/Cleaning-Products-That-Smell-Good


If you are interested in the basics, your local health food store should carry a few oils that are must-have when learning about aromatherapy.


Just Breathe: Aromatherapy Works


Lavender. This essential oil comes in many varieties and has so many uses! It is also one of few oils that can be applied neat to the skin. If you are looking for a relaxing bath, a good night’s sleep, headache relief, burn and itching relief, plus a little something more to your cleaning products, such as using a few drops in your laundry—use lavender.


Just Breathe: Aromatherapy Works


Peppermint. The fresh scent of peppermint is perfect for allergies, headaches, and coupled with tea tree or eucalyptus oil can be used for colds, and skin-problems such as acne and itching. Use a bit of camphor with it, and you can mimic your own Vicks Vaporub!


Just Breathe: Aromatherapy Works


Oregano. Part of the mint family, one tiny drop or oregano on your toothbrush helps fight oral bacteria, especially if you brush at nighttime. While you sleep, the oregano goes right to work cleaning your mouth. (In the morning, it’s a noticeable difference to wake up not feeling like a rat died in your mouth.) When you’re coming down with a cold, use only one drop in a glass of orange juice. Be careful though: Using any more oregano that you have to will be too concentrated and taste too awful!


Just Breathe: Aromatherapy Works


Tea Tree. Tea Tree was what the main scent and healing properties were that started the whole Melaleuca branding, now commonly sold as Tea Tree Oil. Dab directly on to acne, or use sparingly on the skin for other ailments such as sebaceous cysts. (Girls, you might research these to be those harmless little bumps on your labia from time to time.) Because it's a natural healing oil with drying effects, it's perfect to dry up oily zits.


How to Use


NEVER INGEST. These oils are too concentrated to be taken orally. And for anything I’ve mentioned, check with your doctor first to make sure you can safely use the oils and that you aren’t suffering from something serious. Using essential oils directly on the skin mixed with creams, carrier oils, or talcs may cause a reaction if you’re prone to skin irritation. Luckily, because essential oils are natural – therefore most people can safely use them.



  • Mix with a carrier oil such as jojoba, grapeseed, or almond just to name a few

  • Mix with a non-scented cream such as Vitamin E to use topically

  • Use several drops of your favourite oils on a cotton pad and cure in a jar with talc for powders

  • Use several drops in a nebulizer to scent your bedroom

  • Apply neat. This means a drop directly on the skin. Only lavender or tea tree is advised

  • Use about ten drops of a scent that is pleasant to you in a hot bath

  • Apply a few drops to your pillow just before bed (lavender, usually!)

  • Use a few drops in a handkerchief and carry with you in your pocket, breathe when you need it!


Just Breathe: Aromatherapy Works



Aromatherapy can energize you, improve your mood, and help you relax. Several books on how to use the oils can be found in your local library. Check your local continuing education programs to find an entry aromatherapy course near you. They are fun and informative, and you may meet some new friends to exchange ideas with!

Just Breathe: Aromatherapy Works
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