Long story short, essential oils are highly concentrated oils that are derived from their original plants/herbs that contain incredible healing powers and benefits. If you start researching them, I guarantee that you will fall down the rabbit hole of information (and misinformation). Still, I do urge that you do as much research as you can before deciding to buy.
That said, I do love our oils! I decided to go a different, purchase-as-needed route (rather than signing up to sell the stuff, even though you don’t technically have to sell in order to reap the benefits) for a few reasons. For whatever reason, I’m skittish about becoming a seller. The only suggestion I have regarding purchasing is to buy a high-quality, well-reviewed brand. That’s it. Sell or don’t. Totally up to you!
Today I’m just chatting about the kinds we’ve tried and how we’ve used them. Overall, I’ve decided not to go the “taken in capsule/digested in water” route. I’m sure there are tons of benefits that I’m probably missing out on, but I’ve read too many horror stories and quality control is still very new for this industry. So, the methods we’ve been using regard cleaning and health (in a topical way).
Cleaning with Oils
Tee tree oil is insanely effective as a cleaner and disinfectant. If you ever use the stuff, don’t overdo it — it’s strong. Also, be sure to keep it away from animals (and I’m sure to keep it away from H just in case) since I’ve read of fatal consequences. However, awhile back I used it to make homemade non-Clorox wipes and I’m glad to report we’re still using the same method (and same container!) to wipe down the toddler potty (and any other “ewwww, that needs disinfecting!” moments). I’d still like to switch out the dark cloth for some old white cloth napkins I don’t use anymore since they do leave some dark residue, but for the most part it works like a charm.
I also LOVE using lemon while doing laundry. Like tee tree, it has disinfectant properties as well as stain removal boosting properties. Plus, the smell is insanely delicious. I received a BIG bottle of the NOW lemon for Christmas and nearly fell over with joy. No kidding!
I’m still discovering other ways to use it, but look forward to adding more methods to the cleaning arsenal.
Oils for Health
I find myself turning to oils any time an ache or pain starts acting up or I’m emotionally overwhelmed by something. I prefer organic coconut oil (a tub lasts you FOREVER) as a carrier oil. If it’s a headache or shoulder/neck pain (which, strangely, Dave and I have both encountered lately), I just grab a bit of coconut oil and put several drops of oil in, then mix with my fingers and massage in. Peppermint is uplifting and lavender or Tranquility (depending on the brand you buy, the blend will have a different name) is soothing.
I’ve also been known to put a few drops of lavender (or Tranquility) on each pillow to help us sleep. Seriously, it’s that simple and we all sleep like babies! Dave has raved about it.
I also received a diffuser as a Christmas gift. Dave was shocked at how excited I was for that thing, LOL. We haven’t had the opportunity to use it (at least, we haven’t gotten sick so I don’t seem to see a need yet — I’m sure there are other reasons to use it past illness, though).
So, I think that’s all for now! I’ll be sure to share more as my experiences grow. If you have any favorite oils or uses, please feel free to share in the comments! I’d love to have more ideas to try out, and I’m sure others would love hearing your thoughts.