Thursday, February 3, 2011

Which Essential Oils Are Calming & Relaxing

Essential oil blends can be the perfect answer to a stressful day.


Using essential oils as a means of calming your nerves is an excellent, all-natural way to de-stress. However, applying an essential oil blend should be done carefully. In general, essential oils can be relaxing or uplifting. To make a relaxing blend, purchase essential oils such as lavender, rosemary, or chamomile and blend the oil with a base oil such as apricot kernel oil or sweet almond oil, which are both very nourishing for the skin.


Lavender








Lavender is one of the most popular oils in aromatherapy. Lavender remains popular due to its sweetly floral properties and versatility. When lavender essential oil is blended with a mild, nourishing base oil, like sweet almond oil, the result is a relaxing blend you can use at the end of the day. For a spa-like experience, apply this blend to your skin after the shower for a calming, skin-nourishing experience.








Rosemary


Rosemary has been used medicinally for centuries. The herb has a woody, pine-like scent somewhat like eucalyptus. Visually, the herb looks a lot like lavender. Though lavender is an excellent calming oil, rosemary is used to combat fatigue and exhaustion. When combined with a base oil like sweet almond or apricot kernel oil and lavender, the pine-flower blend can work well to calm and energize you. Keep this blend handy at your desk for a relaxing mental break.


Chamomile


Also a popular herb for tea, chamomile essential oil is a very popular balancing oil. For people with sensitive skin, this oil is the answer because of its mildness. Like lavender, this oil has a light, floral scent. According to Aura Cacia, makers of aromatherapy blends, "its fresh, herbaceous aroma helps balance the changes that take place during menopause." Blend this oil with lavender and rosemary or simply with a base oil.


Blending Precautions


Always use small amounts of essential oils and read the instructions of any essential oil you purchase. Essential oils are highly concentrated; oftentimes, it's a good idea to blend the essential oil with a mild skin-soothing base oil if the blend is to be used on the skin. Properly storing your essential oils is also key to not letting them spoil. Always store the oils in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight, which can break down the compounds.

Tags: essential oils, sweet almond, with base, apricot kernel, base like