7 Essential Oils That You Didn’t Know You Needed
Lavender can help you sleep. Tea tree clears your skin. We’re all familiar with the classic scents and how they can benefit us physically, mentally and emotionally.
But who says that you always have to go with the obvious choice? We’ve put together a list of 7 essential oils with hidden benefits that make them worthy of your basket.
Frankincense
This essential oil has so many fantastic benefits that we’ve already dedicated an entire blog to it. Best known for the miracle effect that I can have on our skin, it strengthens, tightens and brightens thanks to its astringent qualities. Often found in anti-ageing and anti-blemish cosmetic products, Frankincense essential oil is the ultimate DIY skincare saviour. Apply with a carrier oil. (We choose coconut oil every time.)
Looking for more than a glow? Frankincense also has the ability to reduce inflammation and joint pain when taken orally or used topically on the skin. It can also balance your mood when applied to pulse points or added to your diffuser.
Frankincense Essential Oil. €49. Shop Now.
Patchouli
Patchouli’s main chemical componenent, Patchoulol, has a grounding effect on those that find themselves in a state of heightened emotion. It’s the ultimate stabilizer.
You’ll recognize Patchouli’s earthy, musky scent as it is often used in perfume and aftershave. (Chanel Coco Mademoiselle, Gucci by Gucci and Thierry Mugler Angel, to name a few.) Patchouli is also known to boost hormones and has been noted historically as an aphrodisiac. Those risqué perfume adverts are all starting to make a little more sense now…
Geranium Bourbon
Distilled from the finest variety of the geranium plant, Geranium Bourbon is a rich, well-rounded oil that balances the mind and helps to create the right psyche for sleep. It can also improve feelings of agitation or sadness and is widely recommended as a natural alternative to ease unwanted PMS.
Geranium Bourbon is our first recommendation for those that would prefer to use a sleep aid other than Lavender.
Petitgrain
A lesser known citrus oil, Petitgrain is distilled from the Bitter Orange Tree and shares molecules with a familiar favourite, Lavender oil. These properties act as a natural sleep aid and can also help with hypertension and feelings of stress. Petitgrain also has the ability to act as a natural toner and can help with blemishes.
This essential oil is a popular choice for those who prefer a lighter scent thanks to its more subtle, citrusy- floral notes and woody undertones.
Petitgrain Essential Oil. €19. Shop Now.
Tangerine
…and for those that prefer something more striking, Tangerine oil is the perfect choice. It’s a natural antiseptic and disinfectant, making it an obvious choice for DIY cleaning products. Tangerine oil also contains a cocktail of vitamins B, C, Potassium and Magnesium that can help with hair growth and conditioning. It’s rich in the antioxidant d-limonine which can support a healthy immune system when taken internally. Add a few drops to your water or add to baking recipes to reap the benefits!
Tangerine Essential Oil. €15. Shop Now.
Sweet Basil
Not to be mistaken as an accompaniment to your favourite Italian dishes, Sweet Basil is often found in perfumes, dental and cosmetic products. It has a herbaceous, fresh and sweet floral scent.
Sweet Basil benefits the nervous system, alleviates brain fog and can make us more alert and responsive. A great choice for those that have trouble concentrating when working or studying from home. It can also help those that suffer with asthma, sinus problem or allergies.
Sweet Basil Essential Oil. €15. Shop Now.
Spearmint
Sourced from India, the fresh and clean aroma of Spearmint refreshes any room, promotes easier breathing and leaves you feeling more awake.
Studies have even shown that it can help improve our short-term memory. It also contains carvone and limonene, uplifting properties that can ease emotional stress.
Spearmint Essential Oil. €15. Shop Now.