Essential Oils for the Mainstream Mama

I know my blog name says it all, but I wouldn’t consider myself to be a “crunchy” or “green living” mom.  I don’t buy all organic and I don’t always recycle! I do, however, try to be a good steward to my family and to the world we live in.  But, I will tell you that I don’t always succeed.  Now, being a mainstream mom, I do like to try new things.  I remember hearing about essential oils a few years ago and rolling my eyes at the thought of an oil being so drastically beneficial.  I know oils have been around for a long time, but I do feel like they’ve recently become extremely popular.  

*Disclaimer: I am not a Doctor, and this information is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.*

I first became interested in essential oils when I hosted a shopping event in my own home! My house smelled so good and I was interested in learning more about these magic oils.  I am assuming this is about the same place that you are right now.  You are/were hesitant about such oils, but are open to hearing more about them! You came to the right place! I am here to give you an unbiased opinion, because I have been where you have been and now I am on the other side. 

What are Essential Oils?

Essential oils are highly concentrated liquids that are extracted from plants, flowers, stems, and other plant parts.  Whether or not you want to admit it, we all know that there are some plants that are beneficial to us.  Think of the roses your significant other gets you on Valentine’s Day.  Don’t you just love putting your nose in them and inhaling the beautiful aroma? Doesn’t it instantly make you happy and stress free?  Did you know that there are other benefits to Rose oil, such as purifying blood and boosting libido?  I didn’t either, but this is the whole point of essential oils.  It’s not that they just smell good, although some of them make me wrinkle my nose, but they have other benefits to them too! 

Where can I find these oils and which ones should I buy?

Essential oils are becoming so popular that you can find them at almost any store that sells bath/beauty products, including the big chain stores. There are also independent distribution companies, such as Young Living and doTerra.  I am not here to tell you which place is the BEST place to buy from.  However, I will caution you to do a little bit of research. See how the plants used are harvested and how the oils are extracted. Essential oils should NOT have an expiration date on them.  If they have an expiration date, I would suggest to look for a different brand.  These oils should be pure, without added water or other ingredients.   You will see that prices of different oils vary.  It takes roughly 50 lemons to make a 15 ml bottle of essential oil.  On the other hand, it takes 30,000 roses for a 15 ml bottle of Rose oil! Just be mindful of that, in case you get sticker shock!

How do I use essential oils?

There are three ways to use essential oils; aromatically, topically and internally. 

Aromatically – You can diffuse any oil you would like, in a diffuser.  There are so many good smelling oils out there, and they can be beneficial to inhale.  For example, diffusing peppermint oil is great for a cough or congestion. Diffusing essential oils is a great alternative to candles!

Topically – Add a drop of essential oils to some carrier oil (vitamin e oil, coconut oil, etc) and apply! Essential oils absorb into your blood stream quickly, so they can be beneficial with a backache, headache, or sore muscles!  Be sure to always read the labels and do research to see where they should be applied. Typically, you can apply them to the bottoms of your feet, wrists, neck and temples! Or, try adding a few drops of Lavender oil to a warm bath! Sounds relaxing, doesn't it?!

Internally – Always read the labels first, but some oils can be ingested! Young Living has a “Vitality” line, which are oils, specifically for ingesting.  Ingesting essential oils can help detox your body, aid digestions and support internal organs!  If you’re looking for a place to start, try adding a few drops of lemon oil to your water, or adding thyme or oregano oil to your favorite dinner recipes!

My family and I use essential oils every day in our house.  I diffuse oils in my kid’s rooms during nap time and during the night and I, almost always, am wearing an oil topically. If you are teetering on the edge of giving them a shot, go for it!  Essential oils have so many benefits and uses! They can become a very useful tool in your home!