15 Must Haves In Your Essential Oil Collection

If you’re reading this, chances are you already have quite an essential oil collection. Whether you always have a stash on hand in your bag next to your crystals for any stress or ache, or if you’re relatively new and bought some lavender oil on the suggestion of a friend, there is no denying that scent is a powerful thing. Essential oils have been used for thousands of years- you can find them in specialty stores, retail outlets and local retailers, who can explain benefits for you and your lifestyle.

There is a reason why certain smells are powerfully attached to memory. The olfactory senses are the strongest out of the 5 senses. However, essential oils are not just for diffusing. While they can freshen up a room, essential oils when used in a diluted form can be applied topically to help with anxiety, headaches, and even menstrual cramps. Read on to find out what oils any fan should include in their essential oil collection.

Lavender

Lavender is considered one of the most popular essential oils, and for good reason. Its sedative, antispasmodic, anti-anxiety, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antibacterial, anesthetic, immune-boosting, and antiviral. Use it in beauty products to take advantage of its skin-enhancing properties, or spray some on your pillow or diffuse it for a restful night’s sleep.

Peppermint

Need a pick me up? The smell of peppermint has been shown to invigorate the senses and provide a quick boost of energy. Like lavender and lemon, it’s everywhere and for good reason. Peppermint, in addition to being a stimulant, is an antispasmodic, antiviral, antimicrobial, antifungal, antioxidant, and effective treatment for tension headaches. Gently massage a little on your temples or use a peppermint-scented lip balm and enjoy feeling energized and headache-free.

Eucalyptus

Not just for koalas. Because of its menthol-like scent, Eucalyptus is a popular choice for those suffering through the cold and flu season, and just a whiff of this potent scent can clear the airways. What is not widely known about eucalyptus is that it is also a potent all-natural pesticide – able to kill fungus, bacteria, mites, insects, and weeds.

Lemon

You likely encounter this one every day and don’t realize it. Lemon oil is commonly found in everything from household cleaners to soap. When used topically it is a powerful astringent, antiseptic, and antibacterial agent. You can also use a diluted version to help diminish signs of aging such as wrinkles and loss of skin tone. When using in an aromatherapy regimen lemon has anti-depressant qualities and anti-stress properties.

Cinnamon

This spicy and exotic scent is for more than just sweets and Christmas. When used in aromatherapy it can be used a decongestant. Those who lead a more active lifestyle or are prone to chronic pain will find cinnamon especially helpful as it is known to be anti-inflammatory and can assist with pain relief due to its antispasmodic and analgesic properties

Lemongrass

A staple in Thai cuisine, this aromatic grass, which has been described as lemony and herbal, could be used a mood booster alone. However, lemongrass contains potent pharmaceutical properties such as anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory. Looking for an alternative to DEET bug sprays? Lemongrass is also a powerful insect repellant.

Tea Tree Oil

If you’ve ever had a breakout, it’s likely you encountered tea tree oil at some point. Excellent for cleansing the skin and treating blemishes in a gentler way than benzoyl peroxide. Thanks to the clarifying properties it contains, tea tree oil can also be used to treat gingivitis, mild to moderate dandruff, and help ward off the symptoms of influenza.

Rosemary

While many reach for rosemary to spice up a dish, it can also provide an energetic boost similar to citrus and peppermint. Rosemary can increase heart rate, boost the immune system, and increase respiratory rate. It has also been known to increase your thinking capability and decrease the stress hormone cortisol. Diffuse some while studying or at work and it can help your focus.

Sweet Orange

Some call this scent liquid sunshine. When applied topically it can ease anxiety and improve mood, as well as increase blood circulation. It does not diffuse well, so sweet orange is recommended in beauty products or perfumes. Note to refrain from purchasing bitter orange oil, as it is phototoxic, which means it will cause a severe allergic reaction on the skin.

Clary Sage

Clary sage is excellent for the skin. It’s antibacterial, astringent, and can improve circulation. Those struggling with menopause will find clary sage most beneficial, as it is known to regulate hormones and have anti-depressant effects. Clary sage is also effective when used as a massage oil to relieve menstrual cramping.

Ginger

Ginger can elicit a “warm and cozy” feeling when diffused, as the spicy scent reminds most people of baked goods. It can also help offset nausea, and eating candied ginger can assist in offsetting discomfort from overeating or upset stomachs. When used topically ginger can ease inflammation and pain.

Patchouli

Associated most often with New Age stores, patchouli is a rich and spicy scent that can be overwhelming, so use in small doses. It can be diffused or used topically, and is an antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, and can soothe the nervous system.

Rose

Another powerhouse essential oil, rose nourishes the emotions. It can act as an aphrodisiac, relieve stress and anxiety, and offset pre-menstrual symptoms. When used as part of a beauty regimen, it can encourage a youthful glow with its cell regenerative capabilities.

Ylang Ylang

Because of its pleasing floral scent, ylang-ylang is found in many perfumes. Its scent is known to be an aphrodisiac, and an antidepressant, so use it when you need to feel upbeat and flirtatious.

Sandalwood

Not just for candles, sandalwood, like tea tree oil, is a strong antiseptic when used on wounds, insect bites, and blemishes. It can also be used to treat inflammation of the circulatory and nervous systems. Its classification as a sedative makes it an effective muscle relaxant and stress reliever.

Adding these oils to your current essential oil collection will help you to truly reap the benefits. Whether using them topically or as part of an aromatherapy treatment you will be healthier and more stress-free in your day-to-day. Consider trying these and enjoy your best self.

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