A drop of all things essential

Don’t you just love the subtle sweet smell of lavender oil or the mild scent of sandalwood oil? Essential oils have gained popularity for their healing properties that are beneficial for both beauty and health.

 Made from the “essence” of different plants and herbs, these oils are widely used in aromatherapy and naturopathy. Essential oils are usually concentrated liquids containing volatile aroma compounds from plants.

Essential oils are carrier oils and can’t be used directly on the skin. They should only be used with agents like moisturisers, body lotions and hair oils or even water. More than three to four drops of these oils may cause irritation and other skin problems. The best part is that essential oils can be used throughout the year, irrespective of the season and on all skin types.

Here are some amazing benefits of some of the essential oils:

Lavender oil: Most commonly used for its relaxing effects on body, lavender oil helps in relieving stress. A drop or two when rubbed on the temples, will help you sleep better. Massaging your hair with a combination of lavender and coconut oil can cure it of lice infestation. Lavender oil can even relieve period cramps if rubbed on the abdomen. It even restores the complexion of your skin and reduces acne.

Tea tree oil: If you are self-conscious about the pimples and pock marks on your face, tea tree oil is the answer to all your skin problems. Use a drop or two of tea tree oil with your regular hair oil to get rid of dandruff and an itchy scalp. Tea tree oil will also help fight psoriasis, zap boils and fungal infections on the feet.

Rosemary Oil: Extremely beneficial for hair growth, rosemary oil will nourish the hair, making it thick and shiny. It also clears the skin. Apart from its beauty benefits, rosemary oil improves the memory and is beneficial for liver detoxification and gall bladder functions.

Sandalwood oil: Rich in antiseptic and antispasmodic properties, sandalwood oil helps cure a host of infections which are common during the monsoons. It helps keep your skin flawless and prevents ageing.

Lemongrass oil: The astringent and antimicrobial properties of lemongrass oil help to resolve acne. A facial sauna with a drop or two of lemongrass oil or a facial mask with a hint of this oil will give you fresh and clean skin. Lemongrass oil cures headaches, insomnia, indigestion, high blood pressure and fatigue.

Rose oil: This oil acts as an anti-anxiety agent and helps in maintaining hormonal balance. It relaxes the body and relieves stress. Rose oil also has astringent
properties that strengthens the gums and hair roots while toning and lifting the skin.

Neroli oil: Extracted from bitter orange blossoms, neroli oil is ideal for acne-prone skin. It helps clear wrinkles, scars and stretch marks. Three to four drops of neroli oil in your bath water can relieve fatigue and induce sound sleep. It is a natural remedy for anxiety, depression, hysteria, panic, shock and stress.

Essential oils are easily available in the market. Though essential oils are expensive, each drop of these oils is worth a try.

(The author is director & beauty expert, 7 Shades Unisex Salon.)