Investigating Essential Oils

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By Hakima Raziyah A. Mumin

There are many forms of herbal healing. You can make a poultice, a tea, a decoction; a bolus, syrup, and you can extract the essential oils from herbs and use them internally or externally.
Essential oils have been used for centuries. The Egyptians, Greek, Indian, and Chinese have long used essential oils for healing. During the “Black Plague” of the 17th century, many of the chemists that were fortunate enough to have essential oils on hand survived.
Essential oils are very helpful in aiding the body to eliminate disease and infection. They also have a multitude of other uses. The best way to obtain essential oils should be through steam distillation. Distillers are very expensive; however, they pay for themselves in the long run. Because there are numerous brands that claim to be essential oils, it is hard to find pure products. You need not buy the first essential oil that you see; a little research should be done to make sure it is a quality product. Essential oils should come in an amber bottle; English and Latin names should be seen on the bottle. Sometimes little booklets are given to explain the oils usage and shelf life. They should also give the country of origin. Here are a few other ways to look for a pure product:

1. Price – If it is very cheap this is usually a sign it is fake; however, some companies are able to sell inexpensively and have quality products, check for reviews on the product.

2. History – How long has the company been in business. What are their ratings?
There are many companies that are selling inferior products. If you already have essential oil you can do a drop test to see if they are real. On a white piece of paper put one drop of the essential oil. Allow it to dry. If there is a ring around the oil spot, that means the oil has a carrier oil added to it. Scientists have been able to duplicate essential oils for years, and many companies sell these fake oils as pure. Be careful and make sure you are purchasing a steam distilled, organic essential oil!
Inhalation of essential oils has become very popular. It is a very effective remedy for so many health deficiencies. If and when purchasing an oil diffuser always purchase one that has no BPA in it. Essential oils can also be added to nebulizers, and humidifiers.
Many people are catching the flu. When the flu or a cold hits, soup, teas, and essential oils can be part of a working plan. Here are a few essential oils that should be kept on hand for all holistic emergencies. They are the following:

1. Peppermint – It is an anti-inflammatory; antiseptic, and an excellent digestive aid. This can be used for colds and the flu. It can be used internally or externally. One drop mixed in a teaspoon of honey will help to control a cough or congestion. Externally a rub can be made for chest congestion when used with carrier oil. A few drops added to 2 teaspoons of carrier oil such as almond, olive, or coconut, and apply where needed. It can also be put in an oil diffuser to inhale, or add a few drops of an essential oil of your choice in boiling water works – and inhale.

2. Eucalyptus Oil – This is germicidal oil. It is antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and deodorizing. It is also well known for its antiviral properties.

3. Chamomile Oil – It is very good to use for children. It is used for sunburn, fever, psoriasis, eczema, asthma, nervous and depressive states. It has a calming, sedative effect.

4. Lemon – It is a water purifier, antiseptic, antibacterial, oil that can be used for bug bites, tension headaches, and as a flavor enhancer on fish or other foods.

5. Clove – It has anti-bacterial, antiseptic, anti-fungal, anti-aging properties. It kills parasites on contact. It is used in many cough and cold mixtures. For use when fighting a cold use 1 drop in a teaspoon of honey.

6. Tea Tree – This oil is anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and is good for infection, ringworm, athlete’s foot, toothache, and pyorrhea.

All of the above oils are volatile oils, and are relievers of many illnesses. A few more to keep handy are thyme, rosemary, and lavender.

The sense of smell is powerful. We don’t realize how it affects our well being. A familiar scent triggers our memory cells to remember an event, a time, or a place. Essential oils are therapeutic, and versatile. They can be used for cleaning, cooking, cosmetics, air fresheners, and healing. We are living in turbulent times. Our health is always at risk. Using herbs, oils, teas, and healthy foods is a weapon we must use to protect ourselves. Count all of your pulses when you are sick or well. Shukran Allah, for the array of natural remedies that You have given to us!

References:
1. www.essentialoilacademy.com
2. www.healthyfocus.org
3. www.esential-oil-mama.com
4. The Complete Illustrated Guide to Aromatherapy by Julia Lawless
5. 500 Formulas for Aromatherapy mixing Essential oils for everyday use, by Carol Schiller and David Schiller