LiveGood Essential Oils: A Comprehensive Guide

For several millennia, people in a multitude of cultures have made use of essential oils for medicinal and health-related purposes. These intensely aromatic, plant-derived substances have potentially beneficial effects on human health. In this article, we will provide an overview of the long and rich history of essential oils and then will explore the myriad of health benefits they may bestow when LiveGood Essential oils are used wisely, and of course, safely.

History of Essential Oils

The essential oil’s history stretches back to the dawn of human civilization. The Egyptians, who were without parallel in their knowledge of aromatics, used essential oils for much more than perfuming the air. Their use of essential oils was an integral part of their health and medical practices. Meanwhile, the ancient Chinese were practicing forms of traditional medicine not unlike our modern ones today. They, too, used essential oils profusely in their ancient medicinal practices.

In India, the custom of employing essential oils as medicine goes back more than 3,000 years to the era of the Vedas. The Greeks and Romans, too, adopted essential oils, although in their case, they used them for and in beauty, health, and religious ceremonies. History is full of examples of the diverse ways in which myriad cultures have used essential oils. One thing is certain: Essential oils have a long-standing, almost universal, and well-established presence as potent, natural healers.

How LiveGood Essential Oils Are Made

1. Steam Distillation: The steaming of plant material is the most frequently used extraction method. This process causes the plant’s essential oil to evaporate out of the plant material. The oil then moves through a condensation phase, separating from any water present in the plant.
2. Cold Pressing: This technique is commonly used for citrus oils. The outer peel of the fruit is mechanically pressed to release the oil.

Other methods include solvent extraction, CO2 extraction, and maceration, each are suited to specific plants and purposes.

How LiveGood Essential Oils Work

LiveGood Essential Oils function in two primary ways: by being inhaled or applied to the skin. Once a scent molecule enters the nose, the olfactory nerves carry it directly to the brain, where it has an immediate effect on the amygdala, significantly altering the way we respond to a stimulus. Using essential oils in this way is known as aromatherapy. When applied to the skin, some oil molecules are absorbed into the bloodstream, where they then initiate a physiological response.

Ways to Breathe in Essential Oils

1. Diffusers: Devices that distribute essential oils into the air as a fine mist.
2. Steam Inhalation: Adding a few drops of essential oil to hot water and inhaling the steam.
3. Direct Inhalation: Inhaling the scent directly from the bottle or from a drop placed on a tissue.
4. Aromatherapy Inhalers: Portable, personal devices containing essential oils for direct inhalation.

Health Benefits of LiveGood Essential Oils

Essential oils are known for their wide range of health benefits, including:

1. Stress Relief and Relaxation: Oils like lavender and chamomile are known for their calming properties.
2. Improved Sleep: Essential oils such as lavender and valerian can help promote better sleep.
3. Pain Relief: Peppermint and eucalyptus oils are often used to help relieve headaches and muscle pain.
4. Immune Support: Oils like tea tree and eucalyptus have antimicrobial properties.
5. Digestive Health: Ginger and peppermint oils can aid digestion and relieve nausea.
6. Skin Care: Many essential oils, including tea tree and frankincense, are beneficial for skin health.

How to Apply Essential Oils to the Skin

Essential oils can be applied to the skin through:

1. Dilution: Essential oils should always be diluted with a carrier oil (such as coconut, jojoba, or almond oil) before applying to the skin to avoid irritation.
2. Massage: Diluted oils can be used in massage to relieve muscle tension and pain.
3. Bath: Adding a few drops of essential oils to your bath can provide therapeutic benefits.
4. Compress: Soaking a cloth in water mixed with essential oil and applying it to the skin can target specific areas.

Essential Oil Safety and Known Side Effects

While essential oils do have many benefits, they should be used with caution:

1. Dilution: Always dilute essential oils to prevent skin irritation or allergic reactions.
2. Patch Test: Conduct a patch test before using a new essential oil to check for allergies.
3. Internal Use: Do not ingest essential oils unless under the guidance of a qualified health professional.
4. Phototoxicity: Some oils, like citrus oils, can cause skin sensitivity to sunlight.
5. Pregnancy and Children: Certain essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy and on young children.

LiveGood Essential Oils Do’s and Don’ts

This part might be redundant but better to be safe the sorry.

• Do’s
  • Do Dilute: Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil.
  • Do Patch Test: Test for skin sensitivity before full application.
  • Do Research: Understand the specific uses and precautions for each oil.
  • Do Store Properly: Store essential oils in a cool, dark place to maintain their efficacy.
• Don’ts
  • Don’t Ingest: Avoid ingesting essential oils without professional guidance.
  • Don’t Apply Undiluted: Do not apply essential oils directly to the skin without dilution.
  • Don’t Use Near Eyes and Ears: Avoid using essential oils near sensitive areas.
  • Don’t Overuse: Use essential oils sparingly.

Getting Started with LiveGood Essential Oils for Beginners

For beginners, it’s best to start with a few versatile oils. The LiveGood Essential Oil kit comes with all of these and an immunity blend.

1. Lavender: Known for its calming properties, it’s a great starter oil for stress relief and sleep.
2. Peppermint: Useful for headaches, digestive issues, and as a natural energizer.
3. Lemon: A refreshing oil that can uplift mood and support the immune system.
4. Tea Tree: Renowned for its antimicrobial properties, making it great for skin care.
5. Frankincense: Valued for its soothing effects and benefits for skin health.
6. Immunity Blend: (comparable to “5 Thieves Oil“) Made with careful attention and skill, our Immunity Blend is a force of its own entirely. For starters, this blend is composed of natural essential oils selected for the purpose of supporting your well-being. This one-of-a-kind combination is crafted to do something rarely seen or practiced elsewhere; it awakens your senses while fortifying your immune system all at once.

Benefits and How to Use Specific LiveGood Essential Oils

Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)

Benefits:

• Antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
• Promotes healthy skin.
• Can help with acne and other skin conditions.
• Purifying: Cleanse and refresh your surroundings with Tea Tree’s natural purification.

How to use:

• Topically: Dilute with a carrier oil and apply to affected skin areas.
• Inhalation: Add a few drops to a diffuser for its cleansing scent.

Lemon (Citrus limonum)

Country of Origin: USA

Benefits:

• Uplifts mood and boosts energy.
• Supports the immune system.
• Antimicrobial properties.

How to use:

• Diffusion: Use in a diffuser to freshen the air and uplift mood.
• Topically: Dilute with a carrier oil and apply to the skin. Be sure to avoid sun exposure afterward.

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Country of Origin: Bulgaria

Benefits:

• Calming and relaxing.
• Promotes better sleep.
• Soothes skin irritations.

How to use:

• Diffusion: Diffuse before bedtime for better sleep.
• Topically: Dilute with a carrier oil and apply to temples or wrists for relaxation.

Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Country of Origin: USA

Benefits:

• Relieves headaches and muscle pain.
• Supports digestive health.
• Energizing and refreshing.

How to use:

• Inhalation: Inhale directly or diffuse for an energy boost.
• Topically: Dilute with a carrier oil and apply to temples for headache relief.

Frankincense (Boswellia serrata)

Country of Origin: India

Benefits:

• Reduces stress and anxiety.
• Promotes healthy skin.
• Supports immune function.

How to use:

• Diffusion: Diffuse during meditation or yoga for a calming atmosphere.
• Topically: Dilute with a carrier oil and apply to the skin for anti-aging benefits.

Immunity Blend (AKA “5 Thieves Oil”)

Benefits:

• Combines multiple oils for a powerful antimicrobial effect.
• Supports respiratory health.
• Boosts the immune system.

How to use:

• Diffusion: Diffuse to purify the air and support immune health.
• Topically: Dilute and apply to the bottom of the feet for immune support.

Conclusion

Using essential oils is a natural, holistic way to improve our health and well-being. They have a rich history and can be used in a variety of applications, making them a simple addition to our daily routines. Whether we need help with stress, want better skin, or could stand a boost to our immune systems, essential oils can probably be part of the picture.

But we need to be careful: a little can go a long way with potent, pure plant extracts. Always use them safely and consult a healthcare professional if in doubt. And then enjoy the many ways aroma and therapeutic plants can make us feel—physically and emotionally—better.

Citation: Essentials Oils and Health

Did you know that almost every cell in your body has a vitamin D receptor? Try LiveGood Vitamin D today.