Essential oils have a long history of use in aromatherapy and skin care. They contain aromatic compounds that have an overall positive effect on the human nervous system. Besides, most essential oils have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which allows to use them in skin care. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of the two of the most popular essential oils, lavender oil and tea tree oil.
Essential oils are most commonly used in aromatherapy. Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine that uses essential oils, herbal distillates and other aroma compounds for improving psychological or physical well-being. When chosen and used properly, essential oils can help to relax, give a mood and energy boost, relieve stress and anxiety, combat insomnia, boost the immune system, kill harmful microbes in the air, reduce pain, improve short-term memory, etc. The effects of a particular essential oil depend on its chemical composition.
Lavender essential oil is one of the most popular oils used in aromatherapy. It is obtained by distillation from the flowers of certain species of lavender, typically Lavandula angustifolia (English lavender). Lavender oil has a faint scent of lavender flowers with a hint of wood. In aromatherapy, it is valued for its relaxing properties. While the effects of lavender essential oil may vary from person to person, it is generally considered to have a calming and soothing effect. This oil decreases stress and anxiety levels, improves short-term memory and attention, helps to cope with negative thoughts and emotions, and combats insomnia.
Lavender oil is also widely used in the cosmetic and perfumery industries as a fragrance. It can be found in soaps, shampoos, hair conditioners, shower gels, facial creams, and many other products. The oil is also a common ingredient in DIY skincare products for oily, combination and problem skin because of its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antibacterial and healing properties. Just add a couple of drops of lavender oil to your regular face cream, and you will notice the changes almost immediately. The oil helps to combat acne, regulars sebum secretion, makes the skin smoother, and improves complexion.
Lavender oil is also suitable for dry or sensitive skin, but in this case, you should be very careful. Before using the oil, do a patch skin on your wrist or forearm to make sure there’s no irritation. Never apply undiluted lavender oil, even for a patch test! If everything is OK, mix several drops of lavender oil with a non-comedogenic carrier oil (for example, argan oil, avocado oil, jojoba oil, grape seed oil, or almond oil) and apply the mixture to your skin. It will relieve irritation and itching, prevent flaky skin, improve skin elasticity, and produce a soothing effect.
Tea tree oil, also known as melaleuca oil or ti tree oil, is another popular essential oil that is widely used in aromatherapy and skin care. It is distilled from the leaves of the Australian tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia). This oil has been used in low concentrations in traditional medicine to treat skin conditions such as acne, dandruff, cold sores, insect bites, scabies, lice, and bacterial and fungal infections of the skin.
Tea tree oil is perfect for taking care of oily, combination and problem skin. It effectively eliminates blackheads, whiteheads and pimples, reduces inflammation, normalises the hydro-lipid balance of the skin, and prevents acne scars. Like most essential oils, tea tree oil may cause skin irritation when applied in undiluted form, so you need to mix it with a carrier oil. And don’t forget about the patch test! You should also keep in mind that tea tree oil is toxic when taken internally, so don’t use it in or around your mouth and keep the oil away from children and pets.
You can buy lavender oil, tea tree oil, and other essential oils and blends in our online shop Organic Store. We offer a great selection of aromatherapy products (essential oils, carrier oils, oil blends, bath salts, inhalers, balms, herbal distillates, etc.) produced by brands such as Aromatika, Flora Secret, Green Herb, and others. We offer convenient payment methods and international delivery to all member countries of the Universal Postal Union.