If you haven’t noticed by now, I am a little obsessed with essential oils (EO)! I use them in all my products and I love all the benefits it has given my health holistically especially my skin.

What are essential oils?

Essential oils have been used for thousands of years dating back to the ancient Egypt. They are distilled from plants including seeds, bark, leaves, stems, roots, flowers and their fruits. Quality, pure, therapeutic-grade EOs embodies regenerating, protective and immune strengthening properties for your body.

Which ones should I begin with?

There are many oils out there but which ones should you start with? These are the EOs I began with when I started to craft my natural skincare.

5. Frankincense

This EO is sourced from leaves, stems or roots of plants from the resin of the Boswellia carterii or Boswellia sacara tree that’s commonly grown in Somalia. It is also well-known as one of the gifts presented to Christ by the three wise men. Regardless of its religious significance, it is evident that it is still useful to this day. Frankincense oil is used by either inhaling the oil or absorbing it through the skin, usually mixed with a carrier oil. For the skin, it’s known to help with aging (used in my face and eye creams). When diffused it can assist in balancing emotions to reduce irritability, restlessness and increase spiritual awareness.

4. Lemon

You’re probably using this essential oil already and not know it! Lemon essential oil comes from cold-pressing the lemon peel and not the inner fruit.  The peel is the most nutrient dense portion of the lemon in terms of fat soluble phytonutrients. It has so many benefits externally and internally. It is mostly found in cleaning products and cleansing for the skin because of its anti-bacterial qualities! When taken internally, it can assist with digestion, relieve nausea and cough relief. For the skin, it is mostly suited for the oily, acne-prone and freckled skin due to its drying components.

3. Peppermint

Along with Lavender EO, Peppermint EO is one of the most versatile oils used around the world. It is gathered by steam distillation of the fresh part of the flowering plant. It gives a cooling and calming sensation when used on your body. I use this oil to wake myself up or boost energy in the morning with a quick whiff from a small bottle and also stop my food cravings when I am on a strict eating routine! It can also be used to relieve muscle pain mixed in any unscented creams as well as a foot soak! Due to its antimicrobial properties, it can help freshen the breath and assist in digestive issues.

2. Tea Tree (Melaleuca)

Derived from the plant Melaleuca alternifolia has been widely used throughout Australia for at least the past 100 years for its healing qualities. Due to recent studies, Tea Tree EO has been found to be as effective in treating acne than benzoyl peroxide, but without the negative side effects of red and peeling skin. It can be applied directly onto the skin to treat acne, cold sores and even dry cuticles. To its powerful antiseptic properties and ability to treat wounds it is commonly found in cleaning medicinal products. I use this EO in my deodorant, pimple treatment and facial cleanser to reduce bad bacteria within the skin.

1. Lavender

Whether it is French or English lavender, this EO is steam distilled from the flowering top. It can be applied neatly with no dilution when used topically. I use lavender in all my skincare products as it is suited for all skin types with its soothing, anti-bacterial and healing qualities. When diffused in a diffuser it can reduce stress, anxiety and alleviate headaches. For the skin, it can soothe eczema, dermatitis and acne. For a quick headache reliever, use a roller ball to mix one part fractionated coconut or sweet almond oil with 8-10 drops of lavender, frankincense and 3 drops of peppermint EOs. Rub onto temples when you have a headache or simply want to de-stress.

Where should I buy them?

There you have it, my Top 5 Essential Oils I commonly use! You might find that this is also most people’s but I have tried and tested these products in all my skincare. It is important to note to buy quality essential oils from reputable companies such as DoTerra and Sydney Essential Oils Company as they are certified. EOs should not be used to replace medicines but merely as another alternative or additive. Always consult your doctor when using EOs!

Stay Natural,