Essential oils seem to be all the rage these days. . . lavender lotion, lemon tea, tea tree face cream, lemongrass soap, peppermint bubble bath, everywhere you turn, essential oils show up—and for good reason. Essential oils are phenomenal! But, you know that. So, what’s your go-to oil?

Just as ATP (Adenosine triphosphate) is the high-grade fuel used by our bodies, essential oils are the high-grade fuel of plants. Oils are the BEST plants have to offer. Essential oils are stored in the plants resin cells, glandular hairs, cells, or scales or in the intracellular spaces. There is, on average, 100 components to an essential oil. Be careful in application to avoid the eyes and to close your eyes as you inhale them. There is a lot of science behind essential oils and we appreciate that; it helps us regard them for the healers that they are.

At A Belle Vi, we believe every household would benefit by stocking and using six basic essential oils: frankincense, lemon, lemongrass, lavender, peppermint, and tea tree. Essential oils are condensed drops of goodness!

They each have a distinct but easy to understand purpose and can address most issues that may come up in a household . . . and they are all wonderful in a diffuser, for both their healing powers, air purifiers and they smell amazing! A Belle Vi stocks all of these oils at incredibly affordable prices for top-quality oils.

Let’s jump right in and take a look at these six powerhouse essential oils, that will help power your household to optimum health!

Frankincense . . . is the King of oils! It has a deep woodsy, calming smell and is great for diffusing and is used in worship and meditation. This oil boosts immunity and is helpful in fighting infections. It’s useful for preventing illnesses, reducing inflammation, reducing pain and helps fight cancer. In addition, it combats negative emotions and relieves chronic stress. It has been used for every ill known to man. Frankincense is mentioned in the oldest Egyptian medical records; in ancient times it was valued more than gold.

Lavender. . . is the gentlest to our skin and can be used undiluted except on the most sensitive skin. In fact, it’s excellent for our skin. Some common problems that respond to lavender are: acne, eczema, scarring, burns, and it’s great for speedy wound healing. It stimulates the immune system and is wonderful for tissue regeneration. Many of us use it for the calming benefits; it’s a mood tonic. Inhaling the oil increases beta waves in the brain for heightened relaxation. It’s an awesome first aid for burns and wounds and is well tolerated. Lavender brings to mind fresh-washed, sweet, sleeping babies.

Lemon oil . . . is obtained from a cold pressed extraction from the rinds. If used topically, avoid direct sun exposure for 12 hours; therefore, generally use it in the evening topically. Lemon is good for acne, wrinkles, and varicose veins. The uplifting and refreshing fragrance boosts immunity, is good for relaxation and brightens our mood. That’s a helpful tip for this time of year when we may be experiencing “moodiness.” It’s also a lovely addition in cooking. In addition, it helps the liver, is good for gallstones, and helps ward off cancer cells. Lemon cleanses toxin by moving the lymph system and it helps us slim down.

Lemongrass . . . is used for menstrual irregularities, digestion issues, fevers, stomach pain and to lower cholesterol. Take 1 to 2 drops in a glass of water. It’s also helpful for headaches and is an excellent insect repellent. Its antiseptic qualities can be celebrated by adding the oil to your lotions, shampoo, and conditioners. It is not recommended for children or nursing mothers.

Peppermint . . . is a cross of wild mints. It was discovered in the 17th century and is the oldest European herb. Its steam distilled from aerial parts from the flowering plant. It’s great as a diffusing oil. You can also rub it on your abdomen or take 1 to 2 drops internally. When inhaled, it curbs the appetite. You can put a drop in your hands, rub them together and inhale. . . Mmmmm. Or you can put 10 drops in hot water to steam. It’s Anti-microbial, cleanses the respiratory system and is cooling topically for fever, muscle aches and headaches. It is also used for nausea, digesting, stimulating, invigorating and for mental focus. Bring on the peppermint!

Tea tree . . . (or melaleuca) is a treasure from the native aborigines of Australia. It can be used externally or in diffusers only. If used in mouthwash or toothpaste always spit it out. Tea tree oil has over 70 years of international research. It is steam distilled from leaves and is a highly regarded antimicrobial and antiseptic. It can be used for fungal infections, gum disease, skin conditions like acne, chicken pox or cold sores. It’s good for sinuses, lungs and wounds.

When using any of these oils, it’s always best to check with your Naturopath Doctor or other trusted health care provider. You may want to discuss any allergies or aversions you may have to a particular oil. And be sure to store them in a safe cool place, away from children.

Well, that’s a lot of info! What’s your favorite oil and use? Take what you can use from all this information and enjoy using drops of your essential oils here and there! They add flavor and fun to our lives in a variety of ways.