The most important essential oils for health and their effect
Essential oils are far more than just fragrant essences – they are highly concentrated plant extracts with medical properties. For centuries they have been used to relieve symptoms, to promote healing processes and to improve general well -being. But not all essential oils are equally effective, and some can even have unwanted side effects.
What are essential oils?
Essential oils are highly concentrated, fleeting plant extracts, which are obtained by various methods such as distillation or cold pressing from flowers, leaves, bark, roots or fruits. They contain the characteristic fragrances and healing active ingredients of the respective plant. Due to their strong effects, they have been used in naturopathy, aromatherapy and cosmetics for thousands of years.
History of the essential oils and their effect
The use of essential oils goes back to antiquity. They used the Egyptians for embalming and healing ceremonies, while the Greeks and Romans use them in medicine and perfumery. Essential oils also play a central role in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. In the Middle Ages they were distilled by monks and used as a remedy for various symptoms. Today they are an integral part Alternative healing methods And also gain in increasing importance in conventional medicine.
How are essential oils made?
The extraction of essential oils is usually made by three main procedures:
- Water vapor distillation: The most common method in which plant parts are decomposed by hot water vapor to extract the oils.
- Cold pressing: Especially used in citrus fruits, where the oils are pressed out of the shell.
- Solvent extraction: Is used for sensitive flowers such as jasmine or rose, since these could be damaged by distillation.
What do you pay attention to when buying?
When buying essential oils in the trade, you should pay attention to purity and quality, since only natural oils essential oil effect can develop. High -quality oils are usually characterized as “100 % natural” or “therapeutic quality” and do not contain any synthetic additives. In addition, the oil should be stored in dark glass vials to maintain its effect and durability. Certifications such as organic seals or test seals Independent institutes can also be an indication of good quality.
Note: The essential oil effect can vary individually. While many people benefit from their positive effects, sensitive people can show unwanted reactions, such as skin irritation or allergic reactions. Before the application, expert advice from a doctor, naturopath or aromatherapist should take place. Especially pregnant women, children or people with chronic diseases should use essential oils with caution. It is also advisable to always use essential oils diluted and not to take them carelessly internally.
The 10 most important essential oils & Effect
1. Lavender oil (lavandula angustifolia) – the all -rounder for relaxation and skin
Origin: Originally from the Mediterranean, now cultivated in France (especially Provence) and Bulgaria.
Appearance of the plant: Small, violet flowers on long, slim stems.
Odor: Gentle, floral, slightly herbaceous with a soothing character.
Effect:
- Soothing, fear -solving, sleep -promoting
- Wound healing, anti -inflammatory
- Pain -relieving in a headache and migraines
Applications:
- Apply directly to the temples (with a headache)
- Inhalation or diffuser (with stress and sleep problems)
- Diluted on the skin (for wound healing or insect bites)
Risks:
- Can cause skin irritation in rare cases
- Excessive use can have sedative effects
2. Peppermint oil (mentha piperita) – freshness for body and mind
Origin: Originally from Europe and Asia, today grown worldwide.
Appearance of the plant: Green, lanceolate leaves with purple flowers.
Odor: Fresh, cool, menthol.
Effect:
- Enlivened and promoted the concentration
- Unconconizing in gastrointestinal complaints
- Alleviling headaches and colds
Applications:
- A few drops on the temples (with tension headache)
- Inhalation for colds
- Take diluted (against nausea or flatulence)
Risks:
- Not suitable for children under the age of six (risk of larynx cramp)
- Can burn with sensitive skin
3. Tea tree oil (Melaleuca Alternifolia) – Natural antibiotic
Effect:
- Antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal
- Promotes wound healing
- Effective against acne and skin infections
Applications:
- Apply to pimples
- Diluted with water as a mouthwash (in the event of inflammation)
- In shampoos against dandruff
Risks:
- Highly concentrated, it can irritate the skin and mucous membranes
- Should not be taken (poisonous in larger quantities)
4. Eucalyptus oil (Eucalyptus globulus) – liberator of the respiratory tract
Effect:
- Musical resolution for colds
- Antiviral and antibacterial
- Promotes concentration
Applications:
- Inhalation with a blocked nose
- Rub the breast (diluted with carrier oil) in the event of cough
- In the room diffuser for fresh air
Risks:
- Not suitable for small children (risk of breathing problems)
- Can cause skin irritation
5. Lemon oil (Citrus Limon) – natural mood upheller
Origin: Originally from India, especially grown in Italy and Spain today.
Appearance of the plant: Yellow citrus fruit with glossy green leaves.
Odor: Fresh, lemon, invigorating.
Effect:
- Atmosphere and promoting concentration
- Anti -inflammatory and detoxifying
- Antibacterial, cleaning for skin and room air
Applications:
- Diluted in water as a detox drink (only in organic quality!)
- In skin care for a clearer complexion
- In the diffuser for a refreshing room air
Risks:
- Increases the light sensitivity of the skin (do not apply directly before the sun)
- Can irritate the skin undiluted
6. Rosemary oil (rosemary officinalis)- memory and circulatory booster
Effect:
- Promotes concentration and memory performance
- Revitalized the circulation
- Solves tension and muscle cramps
Applications:
- Massage into the scalp (against hair loss)
- Inhalation or diffuser for intellectual clarity
- In massage oil for muscle tension
Risks:
- Not suitable for pregnant women and high blood pressure patients
- Can cause skin irritation
7. Chamomile oil (Chamomilla Recutita) – gentle healing for body and mind
Origin: Originally from Europe and Asia, grows in moderate zones worldwide.
Appearance of the plant: Small white flowers with a yellow middle.
Odor: Gentle, floral, slightly sweet.
Effect:
- Anti -inflammatory and calming
- Supports wound healing
- Drugs in gastrointestinal problems
Applications:
- Diluted in skin care products (against irritation)
- As a tea or diluted oil against abdominal pain
- In the diffuser for a relaxed atmosphere
Risks:
- Can cause allergic reactions (basket bloom allergy)
8. Oregano oil (origanum vulgarian) – strong weapon against infections
Origin: Mediterranean area, especially Greece and Türkiye.
Appearance of the plant: Bushy plant with small, oval leaves and purple flowers.
Odor: Spicy, sharp, slightly earthy.
Effect:
- Antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal
- Supports the immune system
- Promotes digestion
Applications:
- Take diluted (for gastrointestinal infections)
- Apply directly to warts or nail fungus
- Inhalation against colds
Risks:
- Very strong – should always be used diluted
- Can irritate mucous membranes
9. Inclar oil (Boswellia Serrata) – the holy oil of healing
Origin: Arabian Peninsula, India and Africa.
Appearance of the plant: Tree with a resin -filled bark.
Odor: Woody, balsamic, slightly lemon.
Effect:
- Anti -inflammatory (especially for joints)
- Soothing for mind and soul
- Supports skin regeneration
Applications:
- In ointments against joint pain
- In Meditation or prayer for inner peace
- Diluted on the skin for scar care
Risks:
- Can be toxic in high doses
- Easy skin irritation possible
10. Sandelwood oil (Santalum album) – balm for the soul
Origin: India, Australia.
Appearance of the plant: Tree with dark red wood.
Odor: Warm, woody, sweet.
Effect:
- Soothing and earthy
- Anti -inflammatory for the skin
- Aphrodisiac
Applications:
- In meditation to inner balance
- In skin care against dryness
- In the perfume for a deep, warm fragrance
Risks:
- Can irritate the skin, so always dilute
- sustainability problem: Attention on ethical origin
Conclusion: Which essential oil for what effect?
Each of these essential oils Has its strengths – from respiratory support to mental clarity to skin care. However, caution is required when dealing with essential oils: they should always be dosed correctly, diluted and used in tested quality.
The essential oil effect is increasingly being discussed in the Health sector because many people rely on natural healing methods. While aromatherapy has long been recognized in naturopathy, general medicine is critical of essential oils, as so often, since not all effects are scientifically comprehensively proven. Nevertheless, there are studies that indicate positive effects in stress, sleep disorders and certain skin problems. Experts are calling for more research to the exact essential oil effect And better to understand possible medical applications.
Tip: If you want to get into the world of essential oils, you can start with lavender, peppermint and tea tree – they cover a wide range and are well tolerated.