We’ve heard a lot of good things about essential oils (ätherische Öle naturrein). And most of us have tested these oils, usually as a topical use to relieve body aches. The question, Is there more to essential oils than just the obvious topical use? Let’s find out.
What are essential oils?
Essential oils are mixtures of compounds extracted from plants. They have distinct odors and non-soluble in water. Essential oils are extracted from plants through distillation process and cold pressing. Examples of essential oils include lavender, tea tree, peppermint, and eucalyptus. There are more to what has been mentioned.
The FDA (Food & Drug Administration) classified essential oils as food supplements. Therefore, manufacturers of essential oils do not have permission to sell them as medicines.
What are the benefits of essential oils?
There are many claims as to the health benefits of essential oils. It has been said that essential oils can greatly reduce stress. It can also help in weight loss. Essential oils are used to remove toxins from the body, boost immunity, and improve circulation.
Reduce stress. Essential oils are typically found in SPA and massage clinics because these oils are primarily being used for aroma and massage therapy to help reduce stress. Researchers found out that these oils have an anxiety reducing effect.
- Fungal infections. Essential oils are also said to help reduce fungal infections. A study found out that essential oils have the capability to kill Candida albicans. The authors concluded by saying, “Our results support the view that essential oils are effective in destroying fungi and thus can be used against candidiasis”.
- Improve sleep quality. Among the essential oils, lavender oils has a distinct relaxing odor that helps promote sleep. Sprinkle a small amount of this oil on towels and pillows and your sleep time will significantly increase. The same had been done to people with dementia. Researchers have noted significant improvement in their sleep time.
- Boost Immunity. People who have been diagnosed with arthritis, asthma, and other chronic diseases could benefit from essential oils therapy by adding these oils to their daily diet or inhaled through a vaporizer.
There is a great deal of research that supports these benefits, but there is no evidence-based proof for their use as medicine.
What are doctor’s take on essential oils?
There are many divided opinions regarding essential oils. Doctors will agree that these oils have a soothing effect that helps the body relax. But these oils can do only to a certain extent and cannot replace standard medical practices for treatment.