Aromatherapy, although becoming increasingly more popular in today’s world, is nothing new: The ancient Egyptians were masters of using the oils derived from plants to provide pain relief, relaxation and feelings of well-being. Even though the times have changed, what are some of the best ways to make the most of aromatherapy and essential oils in the modern world?

Words To The Wise

Testing the effects of essential oils little by little before immersing yourself in them is always a smart idea. Introduce new oils to your body in small amounts and see if you have a reaction. If there’s anything scary like shortness of breath or trouble breathing going on, call 911 immediately and seek medical attention. Remember, even though they are made from natural ingredients, you might have an allergy that you know nothing about. Be safe and use common sense before deciding to try essential oils.

Bathtime

Soaking in a hot bath is the epitome of relaxation, but when you add a scent that calms the nerves and helps you to relax it’s nothing short of euphoric. This can be especially true if you feel like you’re starting to get sick; adding a couple of drops of essential oils to your bathwater may help you to combat illness and help your immune system get a kickstart. However, certain doTerra fragrances could harm you, so it is important to do your research on which oils are best for you. Some of the best essential oils for fighting illness include:

Peppermint, which can help you with coughing or a sore throat. It is also good for your nasal passages to help open your airways and help you breathe more easily.

Tea tree oil-A natural antibacterial, a few drops in your bathwater may help you fight infection.

Eucalyptus-known for fighting viruses and working to reduce fevers.

Remember to use caution before using oils in the bathwater, especially if you’re not sure how your body and skin will react to being immersed in it. If you feel any weird symptoms get out of the water immediately and rinse your body off.

Massage

Being able to treat yourself to a massage once in awhile is an amazing gift. Slip into a heightened sense of relaxation as your muscles are worked by your masseur and request that essential oils to be worked into your massage, especially on certain areas that might be tender. Some of the best oils for sore spots on your body include:

Lavender-Relaxing and soothing, lavender is known to reduce inflammation and can help calm throbbing muscles.

Cypress-If you’re having muscle spasms, cypress oil can penetrate into your muscle tissue and help to ease the spasming and calm the muscles.

Clove-Thanks to its warming effect, clove oil can help to treat pain from aching muscles. An added bonus is that clove is antiviral and antifungal as well, which helps you to avoid infection.

Exercise

When you sweat, your natural pheromones are released and any fragrance you’re wearing is enhanced. This isn’t only true for perfumes and colognes, but also for essential oils. Rubbing a little of certain oils can help to heighten your workout and give you a boost the next time you hit the gym or take a jog.

Lemon is already refreshing and naturally thirst-quenching, so adding a drop or two of its essential oil can help you to feel more refreshed and better hydrated during and after your workout.

Juniper’s tangy zest wakes you up in the morning to give you the boost you need to get started. A natural stimulant, juniper can help you feel the jolt you need to work out.

Peppermint is more than soothing on your mind, but it can also help increase oxygen and blood flow. It’s also great for making you feel more alert and concentrated on your workout, helping you to stay focused and motivated.

There is a scent for all moods. Know which work best for you in different circumstances to help you to get the most out of using essential oils in your daily life.