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Essential oils are extracted from certain parts of plants and leaves. They are often used for aromatherapy but are great for several reasons. Essential oils can help with things like anxiety headaches and insomnia. Here are some ways people use essential oils.
Peppermint
Peppermint is a mix of spearmint and water mint. The oil has a multitude of benefits for the body. It can be used for health purposes such as clearing congestion and treating colds and coughs. It is also an effective pain reliever. Many people put a few drops in water and boil it to relieve headaches.
“I use peppermint oil all the time,” says Jenniffer Hernandez, a junior at SUNY Plattsburgh. “Whenever I have a headache I spray peppermint oil in my room.”
Lavender
The lavender essential oil comes from lavender flowers. Lavender is one of the best natural remedies for improved mood and mental health. The oil promotes relaxation. It is said to help with insomnia, depression, and menstrual cramps. It is also an anti-inflammatory that helps with achene and blemishes. A few drops of lavender in a diffuser can calm down the body for sleep.
“I put a few drops of lavender oil on my pillow to help me go to sleep at night,” says senior Jazmine Alexis.
Orange
Orange essential oils come from the rinds of sweet oranges. Containing vitamin C, orange oils can give an energizing boost to your day. The most common use of orange essential oil is for skin care. The vitamin C in the oil is said to make skin appear brighter and smother. It also acts as a natural means to clear acne scars and blemishes. When added to honey and sugar it is a great exfoliant for the face and body.
Tea tree
Tea tree oil comes from the leaves of the Australian tea tree. Tea tree oil is commonly used to keep your hair nails and skin healthy. When using tea tree oil directly on the skin you have to remember to dilute it with a carrier oil such as coconut or almond oil. Tea tree oil can be used with carrier oil and water to soak your nails and promote growth. Tea tree is also often used for oiling the scalp to encourage hydration and healthy hair growth.
“When I have braids in my hair, I use oils to massage and hydrate my scalp,” says Chamy Bamba junior at SUNY Plattsburgh. “ My favorite oil to use is tea tree oil.”
Essential oils are a great addition to your everyday routine. Not only do they smell good, but they also aid in making your body and overall mood better.
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