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Essential Oils for Health: Help or Hype?

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Though essential oils have been used in cultures all over the world for centuries, they have recently gained a resurgence in popularity along with more widespread availability. What exactly are these fragrant oils some rave and some dismiss? And are they worth incorporating into a healthy regime?

What Are Essential Oils?

Essential oils are the concentrated essences derived from various plants. They can be diffused for inhalation, massaged on the skin, or applied to specific pressure points on the body.

What Is the Research On Essential Oils?

The body of research on essential oils is still relatively limited, but initial results show promising results. Additionally, centuries of anecdotal evidence support their use for health and medicinal purposes. In one study done with young children, the children who used particular essential oils experienced an 80 percent reduction in respiratory illness symptoms and an over 40 percent reduction in incidences of such illnesses.

In addition to use in treating and preventing respiratory illnesses, certain essential oils have been shown to have powerful antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Further, unlike prescription antibiotics, the use of essential oils does not appear to create resistant bacteria.

Evidence also suggests essential oils can be effective in fighting nausea, easing headaches, and helping with emotional difficulties like anxiety.

The Verdict

Because essential oils are generally regarded to be safe and are relatively affordable, it is likely worthwhile to consider incorporate them into your health and wellness regime and/or use them to treat various health concerns. It should be noted that they can cause allergic reactions and should be treated with the same care and caution as other medicinal products.

 

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Author: Coach Kim

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