Essential Oil Basics: Part 4 – 10 Popular Essential Oils and their Uses

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In my last post, I talked about my personal favorite oils and blends. This post will cover 10 popular essential oils (single oils, not blends), and what they can be used for.

Clove (Syzygium aromaticum)

Scent: warm and spicy, often used in holiday blends

Uses: cleaning, aching joints, relief of occasional toothache (adults only)

NOTE: only use a max dilution of 0.5% for topical applications, do not use with children under age 2

 

Eucalyptus(Eucalyptus globulus)

Scent: medicinal, clean

Uses: respiratory problems, congestion

NOTE: Do not use with children under age 10

 

Frankincense (Boswellia carteri)

Scent: woody, a bit spicy

Uses: anti-aging, may reduce the appearance of scars, immune support

 

Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi)

Scent: citrusy, a bit sweet

Uses: mood booster, brightens dull skin

NOTE: Grapefruit essential oil is phototoxic and can cause severe sunburn or blistering when exposed to the sun. If using this oil topically, do not expose your skin to UV light for 12-18 hours after application.

 

Lavender(Lavandula angustifolia)

Scent: floral, fresh, sweet

Uses: promotes relaxation, relief for bruises, cuts, and itching

 

Lemon(Citrus limon)

Scent: citrus, fresh

Uses: cleaning, immune support, mood booster

NOTE: Lemon (cold pressed) essential oil is phototoxic and can cause severe sunburn or blistering when exposed to the sun. If using this oil topically, do not expose your skin to UV light for 12-18 hours after application. Steam distilled lemon (pictured) is preferred for topical use, since it is not phototoxic.

 

Oregano (Origanum vulgare)

Scent: intense, herbal

Uses: cleaning, immune support

NOTE: Do not use with children under age 2

 

Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Scent: fresh, cool

Uses: headaches, congestion, promotes energy

NOTE: Do not use with children under age 6

 

Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile)

Scent: sweet

Uses: promotes relaxation, eases soreness

 

Tea Tree(Melaleuca alternifolia)

Scent: clean, medicinal

Uses: skin care (acne), disinfectant

 

In Part 5, I will go further into safety information about using these oils around children and pets.

Check out all of the posts in this Essential Oil Basics series:

• Part 1 – What are Essential Oils?
• Part 2 – Using Essential Oils
• Part 3 – My Favorite Essential Oils and Brands
• Part 4 – 10 Popular Essential Oils and their Uses
• Part 5 – Essential Oil Use for Children and Pets

 

Disclaimer: The information contained on The Practically Green Mom represents the choices I have made to take charge of my own health and that of my family. Statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products on this site are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition, consult your physician before using these products.

{This post is not sponsored by any essential oil company or Amazon. It does contain affiliate links to Amazon.com. Purchases made through these links support The Practically Green Mom Blog. Please see my disclosure policy for my information.}