Top essential oils for healing, soothing and relaxation

Essential oils are catching on in popularity among mums who are looking for natural solutions for their family’s minor health issues.

Simply put, essential oils consist of the oil of the plant from which they were extracted.

This gallery presents eight very popular therapeutic-grade essential oils and blends that are known for their healing, soothing and calming properties.

These are recommended and used by Jo Nabonne, an experienced essential oil user and a mum of two.

Jo is the creator of Lavender Mums, a Singapore-based Facebook Group that is a platform for essential oil users to ask questions and share their experiences.

Do keep in mind that any health or other benefits can only be obtained when using the purest quality essential oils that meet therapeutic-grade standards set by bodies such as the European AFNOR and ISO.

The Young Living oils presented in this gallery meet these standards.

Please note that it is best not to use these oils on children under 18 months of age. It is also best to dilute the oil (1 part oil to 4 parts carrier oil such as vegetable oil) when using on older kids.

If you are pregnant, please check with your doctor first before using these oils.

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Thieves Essential Oil Blend

Thieves Essential Oil Blend contains clove, lemon, cinnamon, eucalyptus radiate and rosemary oils. This blend has strong antioxidant and purifying properties and is used to support the immune system and general good health.

Its inspiration is a story in itself: it was created based on research after four thieves in France protected themselves with cloves, rosemary and other aromatics while robbing plague victims decades ago.

How to use:

To eliminate airborne bacteria, diffuse for short periods of time - 30 minutes or less - in your home or work environment.

To boost immunity, dilute one part Thieves in four parts carrier oil and massage on the soles of children over the age of 18 months.

To thoroughly clean dishes and eliminate smells, put a few drops of this oil in your dishwasher

Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender essential oil is a natural antihistamine that keeps symptoms of an allergic reaction at bay. It is also excellent for winding down before bedtime and soothing minor burns.

With its wonderful aroma and healing properties, it is one of the most versatile of all essential oils.

How to use:

Soothe minor burns by applying a drop or two of lavender essential oil to the affected area.

Rub a few drops of this oil onto your hand and spread over your child’s pillow to help him sleep.

Diffuse lavender essential oil before social gatherings or parties. It is especially great for baby showers.

Dab a cotton ball with this oil and place it in your cupboards for a great scent. It repels moths too.

To minimise the appearance of scars, apply frequently to the affected area.

Diffuse or inhale after a long, hard day to help you relax.

Cedarwood Essential Oil

With antifungal, antiseptic, and soothing properties, you can rub a drop of cedarwood oil on your forehead, as Jo often does, to aid sleep and help relax the mind.

This oil has also been used for a long time as an ingredient in cosmetic preparations for oily skin, and as such, helps control acne breakouts.

How to use:

For a calming effect, place a drop in your hands, rub together then inhale the fragrance for a few minutes.

To get rid of dandruff, use coconut oil as your carrier to maximise cedarwood oil’s moisturing benefits and antifungal properties. Massage a few drops of the oil blend on your scalp.

Purification Essential Oil Blend

Jo uses the Purification oil blend for protecting against insect bites and providing relief from itches. It can also be used for minor cuts and scrapes.

This blend contains citronella, lemongrass, rosemary, melaleuca, lavandin and myrtle oils. It doesn’t need to be diluted unless you have very sensitive skin.

How to use:

To relieve itchiness, apply a drop or two on the affected area.

To eliminate stale air, add a few drops on a cotton ball and place in a room.

To get rid of that "wet dog" smell as well as the smell of cigarette smoke, diffuse the oil blend.

Stressaway Essential Oil Blend

Containing oils such as copaiba, lime, cedarwood, vanilla, ocotea and lavender, Stressaway oil blend is ideal for bringing relief from stress and inducing relaxation.

You don’t need to dilute this oil unless you have very sensitive skin. However, it is best to avoid topical application on infants and very young children.

How to use:

Rub a drop on your wrist to help reduce anxiety.

Use it in a diffuser and inhale the beautiful aroma.

"Di-Gize" Essential Oil Blend

"Di-Gize" Oil Blend by Young Living is great for stomach issues such as indigestion and constipation.

It is made up of tarragon, ginger, peppermint, juniper, fennel, lemongrass, anise and patchouli. Dilution is generally not required for adults.

How to use:

Apply a few drops on your aching stomach.

Orange Essential Oil

Jo recommends diffusing the fragrant orange essential oil during the day for clarity of mind.

Dilution is recommended if applying topically, as citrus oils should not be applied on skin that will be exposed to direct sunlight or ultraviolet light within 72 hours.

It is also best to avoid using orange essential oil on infants and small children.

Deep Relief Essential Oil Blend

Jo recommends using Young Living 's "Deep Relief" oil blend for aches and pains.

It contains peppermint, balsam fir, clove, vetiver, wintergreen, lemon, helichrysum, copaiba and coconut oils.

How to use:

Young Living provides their Deep Relief oil blend in a roll-on application, which you just apply to the affected areas.

Written by

Nalika Unantenne

beauty and healthcarecomplementary and alternative medicineCAMessential oils