Top 4 Essential Oils to Have On-Hand
Everyone asks me "If I were to only get a few essential oils, what should I get?". My answer? Spark Natural's (SN) Essential 4 Pack! Most companies offer similar "basic" packs to the Essential 4 Pack, and for good reason. It contains the top four most versitile and effective essential oils, Lemon, Lavender, Peppermint, and Melaleuca (Tea Tree). Let's go over each oil's top properties and uses and see if you agree.
1. Lemon: Citrus Limon
Properties: Antibacterial, Antioxident, Antiseptic, Detoxification, Diuretic, Disinfectant, Degreaser
Top Uses: Congestion, Allergies, Heartburn/Reflux, Detox, Kidney & Gall Stones, Furniture Polish, Concentration
Apply: Can be used aromatically, topically, and internally (depends on condition)
Emotional Balance: Mindless -> Energized
Warnings: Lemon is a photosynthetic oil; avoid sunlight/UV rays for 12 hours after skin contact (topical application)
2. Lavender: Lavandula Angustifolia
Properties: Analgesic, Antibacterial, Antidepressant, Antihistamine, Antispasmodic, Relaxing, Soothing, Sedative
Found in SN Blends: Amend+, Bliss, Dream, Jeddy's, L.L.P., LXR, Pure Touch, and Relief
Top Uses: Allergies/Hay Fever, Burns, Cuts, Focus, Headaches, Stress, and Sleep Issues
Apply: Best used aromatically or topically
Emotional Balance: Unheard -> Expressed
Warnings: When in doubt, use Lavender! It can be applied with or without a carrier oil.
3. Peppermint: Mentha Piperita
Properties: Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory, Antispasmodic, Cooling, Invigorating and Stimulating
Found in SN Blends: Amend+, L.L.P., Pure Touch, Relief, and Respire
Top Uses: Allergies, Alertness, Bad Breath, Digestive Discomfort, Fever, and Headaches/Migraines
Apply: Can be used aromatically, topically, or internally (depends on condition)
Emotional Balance: Hindered -> Invigorated
Warnings: Dilute with a carrier oil for topical use
4. Melaleuca (Tea Tree): Melaleuca Alternifolia
Properties: Analgesic, Antibacterial, Antifungal, Antiseptic, Antiviral, Decongestant
Found in SN Blends: Pure Touch, Refresh, and Respire
Top Uses: Acne, Athlete's Foot, Cold & Flu, Cuts, Dandruff, Hives, Sore Throat, and Shock
Apply: Can be used aromatically, topically, or internally (depends on condition)
Emotional Balance: Unsure -> Collected
Warnings: Very mild-can be applied with or without carriers.
As you can see, having these four basic oils in your arsenal will cover a plethera of ailments common to most everyone. If you can't remember how exactly to apply an oil for a particular condition, applying to the bottoms of the feet several times a day (depending on ailment) will help. It is the quickest way to help our bodies.
Below is an awesome chart available from Spark Naturals with uses for these Essential 4 essential oils. I hope it comes in as handy for you as it has for me!
Happy Healing!
*Sources:
2015 Total Wellness Publishing, LLC, The Essential Life: A Simple Guide to Living the Wellness Lifestyle
Spark Natural's Website, 2015, www.sparknaturals.com
Worwood, Valerie Ann, The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aroma Therapy