CONTENTS

• Methods for using natural essential oils
• Influence and effect of essential oils on our health
• The most popular types of essential oils

Essential oils are a mixture of several dozen or even several hundred volatile compounds of plant origin. They are found in every part of the plant—from the roots to the stem, leaves, rhizomes, flowers, fruits, and seeds. They are usually obtained from dried or fresh plants by steam distillation, hydrodistillation, or cold pressing. Natural essential oils should not be confused with fragrance oils, which are artificially produced and, apart from smelling pleasant, have no health-promoting properties.

Methods for using natural essential oils

Essential oils can be used successfully in aromatherapy in a variety of ways:

• Baths – oils added to warm water work through our skin and penetrate the respiratory tract,
• Inhalations – most commonly used for upper respiratory infections, flu, or colds. Inhalations help to clear a blocked nose and relieve coughs.
• Massages using natural essential oils have a relaxing and soothing effect. Because they penetrate the skin, they continue to work even after the massage.
• with cosmetics – essential oils are used in the production of creams, shampoos, conditioners, and massage oils. Lavender, rose, or tea oils are most commonly used in cosmetics, but not only
• Compresses and compresses - Cool compresses can be used for swelling, severe headaches, joint or muscle tension, warm compresses for rheumatism and arthritis.

Influence and effect of essential oils on our health

• Bactericidal effect - Due to their eugenol and phenol content, some oils have antiseptic effects on fungi, bacteria, viruses, and yeasts. Among the oils with such effects are:
  • Cinnamon ,
  • clove ,
  • Oregano ,
  • Thyme .
• The following oils have a relaxing, regenerating and sleep-promoting effect:
  • Lavender,
  • orange,
  • from bergamot,
  • of rosemary
  • made of sandalwood.
• Diastolic action, primarily the effect on the functioning of the muscles of the digestive system, some oils can help restore normal peristaltic movements. These include:
• Dill,
• Mint,
• Lemon balm,
• Caraway seeds.
• Inhalation, expectorant, respiratory support for colds – oils help clear the airways of secretions and also help relieve the symptoms of a cold and cough. These effects are particularly evident in oils:
• Eucalyptus,
• Jaw,
• Thyme,
• Anise,
• Manuka.
• They repel ticks and mosquitoes – it turns out that essential oils are also helpful in the fight against annoying insects. These insects don't like the smell, among other things:
• • Peppermint,
  • Lavender,
  • Lemongrass,
  • Thyme,
  • Eucalyptus,
  • Citrus oils.

However, some oils should not be applied directly to the skin, especially in young children, as they can irritate it. It's better to pour water into a bottle with a sprayer and a few drops of essential oil, then spray the mixture onto sensitive areas of the body or clothing.

The most popular types of essential oils:

• Lavender - has a relaxing and calming effect. It is recommended for people who are overtired, suffer from insomnia, and are stressed. It also helps relieve cold symptoms and muscle and joint pain.
• Eucalyptus - irreplaceable for colds, flu and blocked sinuses, helps to clear the nose in case of a severe cold,
• orange - helps with tension and stress, helps with falling asleep,
• Peppermint – Like eucalyptus oil, it helps relieve the symptoms of colds, especially a runny nose. It also helps relieve headaches.
• Stone pine - has a soothing effect on the upper respiratory tract, helps relieve cold symptoms such as coughing and shortness of breath, promotes concentration and helps against fatigue,
• Lemon - has an anti-inflammatory effect, helps fight viruses and bacteria, provides energy, helps fight fatigue,
• Rosemary – is used in aromatherapy to combat stress and tension, supports concentration, and has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.

There are many uses for essential oils . Their properties have been known for hundreds of years and were used by the ancient Egyptians. Today, readily available to everyone, they naturally support the fight against infections and colds. A few drops of your favorite scent can act as a natural air freshener, calming your nerves and lifting your spirits.