RICHARD PETERSON
When it comes to essential oils, most of us have undoubtedly encountered lavender, peppermint, tea tree and chamomile, as these can be very helpful. Still many, less popular oils are known to naturally treat common ailments and very easy to find. Here’s a bit about some of my personal favorites: myrrh, sage, valerian, myrtle, and grapefruit.
Myrrh
Why: This pleasant smelling biblical oil is anti-viral and anti-inflammatory, so it’s great for that painful toothache or arthritic joint.
How: Add 2 drops of Myrrh to 4oz of filtered water and gargle for up to five minutes—do not swallow. Also, to naturally treat athlete’s foot, simply apply to the affected area after cleaning.
Valerian
Why: Put down the Xanax and pick up this oil, which soothes and helps mitigate stress holistically. Valerian increases levels of gamma aminobutyric acid, a neurotransmitter that regulates anxiety.
How: For increased relaxation, simply diffusing the oil in your apartment or home will suffice. Many diffusers that dispense vapor into the air are available online.
Sage
Why: Sage works as a lovely astringent, a substance that promotes the contraction of skin cells, when applied after shaving your face or legs.
How: Place 3 drops in 10 oz. of water. Wash area and then apply, leaving skin feeling refreshed and clean. Expect a gentle sting as with any astringent, especially in the presence of broken or chaffed skin.
Myrtle
Why: This oil battles the occasional sinus, lung and respiratory ailment. According to a Brigham Young University study, Myrtle also inhibits prostate and breast cancer cell growth.
How: Diffuse for extra potency.
Grapefruit
Why: Grapefruit oil provides a myriad of antidotes as it helps improve stomach function through the secretion of digestive enzymes and gastric juices. For one of my pregnant clients, grapefruit oil made the difference between a pleasant day, and one of constant nausea. This amazing oil definitely merits deeper investigation.
How: Simply sniff the oil straight from the bottle.
Before using any oil, please test a small amount on skin for sensitivity. Mixing one with a carrier oil—such as an olive or almond oil—will mitigate skin reactivity. If pregnant or nursing, please consult your physician prior to use.