I have been using Young Living Essentials Oils since 1993, when Gary Young founded Young Living. I find the oils to be soothing and therapeutic on many levels. I use several essential oils daily as they help me to balance myself emotionally, physically, mentally and spiritually. My day just doesn’t feel complete when I forget to use them!
First, a little about what essential oils are!
“Essential oils (also known as volatile oils) are the basic materials of aromatherapy. They are made from fragrant essences found in many plants. These essences are made in special plant cells, often under the surface of leaves, bark, or peel, using energy from the sun and elements from the air, soil, and water. If the plant is crushed, the essence and its unique fragrance are released.” (Source)
A market research study by Grand View Research estimates that the global essential-oils market is expected to reach $11.67 billion by 2022!
I am so glad to see that essential oils are growing in popularity because there are many benefits with little risk. They can alleviate digestive issues, help manage psychological conditions like anxiety and depression, and improve everything from sleep to headaches.
However, there are some important things to know to use them safely.
Ways to Use Essential Oils
There are really 3 main ways to use essential oils.
- Aromatically: Breathe in an essential oil by using a room diffuser, which spreads the essential oil through the air, or by placing drops nearby.
- Topically: In aromatherapy massage, one or more essential oils is diluted into a carrier oil and massaged into the skin. Be careful about applying essential oils undiluted as they are extremely concentrated.
- Internally: Certain oils are safe to ingest, but do your research before you ingest any oils! Not all are safe to take internally. Always read label directions for each individual oil before use.
Remember, less is more. Essential oils are extremely potent, so 2-4 drops is enough in most cases.
DON’TS of Essential Oils
First thing I want make sure you know is that essential oils are not meant to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. If you are pregnant, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult your health care practitioner before using these products.
- Don’t use essential oils near open flames, sparks and electricity. Some oils are potentially flammable including orange, fir, pine and peppermint.
- Don’t use sage and rosemary if you have high blood pressure. Epileptics and people with hypertension should use caution with hyssop, fennel, basil, wintergreen/ birch, nutmeg, rosemary, peppermint, sage, tarragon, and tansy oils.
- Don’t leave essential oils where children can reach them.
- Don’t use them near the eye area and do not put directly in your ears.
- Don’t handle contact lenses or rub your eyes with essential oils on your fingers as it may damage contacts and irritate your eyes.
- Don’t use essential oils rich in menthol, such as peppermint, on the throat or neck area of children under 30 months of age.
DO’s of Essential Oils
- Keep bottles of essential oils closed and store them in a cool, dry location away from light.
- Keep a bottle of pure vegetable or coconut oil on hand to dilute essential oils if needed.
- If you’re not sure how to use an oil, the bottom of the feet is one of the safest, most effective places.
- If you have allergies, test as small amount on an area of sensitive skin before using more oils.
- Add essential oils to Epsom salts or a bath gel base for use in the bath. Oils added directly to the bath water can cause discomfort on sensitive skin.
- Have fun with it! Experiment! Play! Cook with them! Diffuse them! Use them on your body! Have an essential oil party with your friends! Use your intuition.
If you are new to essential oils, there are many wonderful starter kits available. One of my favorite essential oil kits is the Raindrop Kit because it can boost the immune system and emotional body for up to 10 days! You can even learn how to do a heavenly Raindrop Massage.
My other favorite oils that I use daily are Valor, Grapefruit, Orange and Thieves. It is said that the Roman soldiers would douse themselves in Valor before heading into battle to help them feel more courageous and centered. That’s so cool! I use Valor on the back of my neck and the bottom of my feet when I get out of the shower in the morning to help ground me into my day.
You may also choose to set up your own account and get your essential oils at Wholesale pricing. Here’s a link for you to get started: https://www.myyl.com/trinahammack
Sometimes you’ll find yourself being drawn to certain oils. When you are drawn to particular oils, trust that your body is asking for them and go for it. There is so much to learn and it’s a wonderful journey along the path of health and wellness. Don’t be shy when it comes to essential oils!