In just the last few years, natural products, organic foods and alternative/complementary medicine are becoming more popular in western cultures. Included in complementary medicine is the use of essential oils as both a therapeutic and as an effective source of medicinal treatment.
You have probably read at least one or two articles in magazines talking about essential oils and their heath supporting properties for such maladies as fungus, stress and in the cooler months for colds and influenza. That maybe all fine and well, but what might one do with this information? In the paragraphs below, we have selected a few applications that have been validated by the most recent science studies.
Relieving Feelings of Anxiousness
Living in an intensely changing world, a growing percentage of the population is experiencing high levels of sustained anxiety and worry. Medical treatments for this disorder are commonly psychotropic drugs; however, long term use of pharmaceuticals is now being discouraged due to their side-effects. An alternative treatment may be warranted from the citrus family – Citrus sinensis or sweet orange. A 2010 study conducted in Brazil looked at the potential of sweet orange essential oil to reduce anxiety behaviors in lab animals. They found that this oil had significant anxiety reducing effects on tested rats.
Such findings are medically significant and even noteworthy, but how can one apply this scientific study to practical use? A few suggestions might be the following: put some drops on a handkerchief and breathe the aroma when necessary or, at the end of a work day, add 4-6 drops of sweet orange oil to your bath water.
Restoring Intestinal Health
Most if not all of us have experienced an upset stomach. Yet for those with dysbiosis, an imbalance of intestinal microflora, such a condition can be on-going with various levels of severity. It is now widely understood that disbiosis is a probable cause of inflammatory and autoimmune disorders, food allergies, fatigue and possibly even colon cancer.
Researchers from Australia published findings in 2009 on the value of using essential oils to treat disbiosis. Their study found that lavender, caraway and neroil were highly effective against the major disbiosis-causing intestinal microorganisms. What was impressive in this study was that these essential oils not only had significant impact on the pathogenic bacteria but also left the health-supporting microflora untouched.
To make practical use of this study, we suggest adding equal parts of the four oils (3 drops each) in a bit of honey and a tablespoon or so of coconut oil. Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of this mixture twice a day in warm liquid and drink after meals. You may also choose to use just one of the oils alone.
Protecting Teeth from Decay
We all know that brushing and flossing is essential. Insufficient brushing and flossing opens the door for bacteria to aggregate and form a biofilm – a slime covering that allows bacteria to cooperate as one. This collective slime can form on your teeth causing plaque which is largely responsible for tooth decay and gum disease.
A recent study from the University of Thailand found that the essential oil of Ocimum americanum L., or American basil, displayed antibacterial activities toward biofilm microbes.
To bridge this information to practical use, we suggest swishing a solution of 1-2 drops in a cup of water in your mouth for 1-3 minutes. (It is wise to use only the specified amount and refrain from using during pregnancy.)
Concluding Thoughts
Latest research on essential oils supports the use in areas of oral, mental and intestinal support. A bridge between what has been found in science research and practical application is a growing aspect of aromatherapy. With each of our reviews, a practical application has been provided.
Author Resource:
The author has made available much information about aromatherapy, such as using citronella and other organic essential oil .
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