Essential oils are plant extracts used in aromatherapy. This holistic approach to improve mind, body and spiritual well-being has been used for thousands of years.

The Egyptians were the first to extract oil from plants for medicinal and religious purposes followed by the Chinese and Indians. Indians in particular incorporated essential oils into Ayurveda.

Because essential oils are natural, it is easy to assume they would be harmless and gentle to the skin.

But they are super potent and cannot be applied in its concentrated form directly onto skin. These oils must be diluted with carrier oils such as grape seed oil, coconut oil or olive oil.

It is best to consult a doctor and get expert advice before starting to use any kind of essential oil.

It is also important to buy your oils from a credible source as the market is swamped with fake essential oils that could be harmful.

Using a diffuser or humidifier is the best way to suffuse your space with therapeutic benefits if you are uncertain about adding essential oils to your beauty routine.

Here’s the scoop on essential oils and their benefits.

1. Lavender

Lavender is the superstar of essential oils. The soothing scent of lavender is said to help calm the nerves and uplift your mood by regulating the neural that controls emotional and behavioural expressions.

In aromatherapy, lavender is used to treat insomnia.

Scent: Sweet, floral

Used in: Scented candles, body oil, lotion

2. Ylang-ylang oil

Ylang-ylang oil is sourced from the ylang-ylang flower – a yellow star-shaped flower that grows on the Cananga tree.

It is mostly used in aromatherapy to relieve stress, improve your mood and is also said to help reduce depression.

Scent: Floral, exotic, slightly fruity

Used for: Scented candles, perfume, soap

3. Patchouli

For those suffering from chronic stress, patchouli oil is believed to boost the happy hormones – dopamine and serotonin. Patchouli is used in traditional medications to soothe inflammation such as dermatitis and eczema. It is also said to have anti-bacterial properties and is used to treat ringworm, fungal infections and much more.

Scent: Musky-woody, slightly sweet and spicy

Used for: Body lotion, soap, air-freshener

4. Frankincense oil

Frankincense is best known for its use in religious ceremonies. But the oil is believed to have calming properties that help to alleviate anxiety.

Its anti-inflammatory properties are said to help in easing itchiness and swelling. It is also said to stimulate blood flow and circulation.

Scent: Citrusy, zesty, earthy

Used for: Face wash, body oil, diffusion, body mist

5. Vetiver oil

Vetiver oil is popular in India and Sri Lanka. It is one of the best known ayurvedic essential oils that is said to help regulate hormones and blood circulation.

Vetiver oil is also said to alleviate joint issues such as arthritis and stress fractures.

Vetiver oil has hydrating properties that can help moisturise, nourish and protect the skin from harmful UV rays. It also helps to improve fine lines and wrinkles.

Scent: Musky and woody,

Used for: Cologne, soap, deodorant, body oil

6. Bergamot

Sweet bergamot oil is said to provide a quick boost to your mental well-being. Many people use bergamot oil against stress because is said to calm the nerves in a matter of seconds.

Bergamot is also said to alleviate inflammation as well as problems caused by constipation, gas and indigestion.

Scent: Citrusy, floral and slightly spicy

Used for: Cologne, perfume, diffuser, cleaning spray

7. Clary Sage

Clary sage has quite a strong scent, which puts some people off, but it is said to have anti-microbial properties and is used to treat infections and cuts, burns and pressure sores.

Plus, the herbaceous warm clary sage oil is said to help against stress and anxiety, swiftly lifting a low mood.

Scent: Pungent, woody, slightly floral

Used for: Diffusion, perfume, body oil