Ways To Improve Your Overall Wellness Score

Even if you aren’t currently experiencing any symptoms and you don’t feel unwell, your overall wellness score may still be suffering. The wellness score is a numeric value that is assigned to a person and indicates their personal health status. With this score, we can better evaluate and compare our health and wellness level to averages.

What’s Your Wellness Score?

In order to improve your overall wellness score, you need to determine what your score is first. To do so, evaluate several different areas of your lifestyle, including your physical, social, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, and occupational well-being.

If you score highly, that means that you take good care of yourself physically, mentally, and spiritually. However, if you find that you score on the lower end of wellness, then you may feel unhealthy and certain areas of your well-being could be suffering.

What can you do to fix those issues and raise your overall wellness score? Focusing more on your well-being and participating in self-care can go a long way in improving your wellness score.

Maintain A Healthy Diet

We use food as fuel for our bodies, so we need to take a closer look at what we are eating. You should aim to consume healthy meals that include a good amount of fruits and vegetables. When we eat, we help our body repair old tissue, heal, and perform other tasks.

Regular Exercise

Even just thirty minutes of exercise a day can give you more energy and improve your sleep quality. It can also be beneficial to your spiritual and emotional health because it can reduce negative thoughts and increase serotonin, which is the feel-good hormone produced by the brain. Daily exercise can also slow down signs of aging such as wrinkles.

After your workout, diffuse 100% natural eucalyptus essential oil to take advantage of its rejuvenating properties. You can also use 100% natural lemon essential oil as a way to boost your energy and combat any post-workout exhaustion you may experience.

Meditation

Meditation is a beneficial way of restoring the mind and body. It allows us to get a much deeper rest and helps with our physical and mental states. With meditation, we can gain greater awareness, feel more relaxed, have more energy, and overcome difficult situations more easily.

Meditation combined with aromatherapy has even more benefits. Semara essential oil is the perfect blend to use because it is good for the mind, body, and soul. It flushes out toxins, boosts metabolism, and eases tension.

When diffused, Semara essential oil can recharge the body, uplift your spirit, and alleviate your mood. All of these can go a long way in improving your overall wellness score and helping you stay in good physical, mental, and spiritual health.

 

Meta Description: Your overall wellness score is a reflection of every aspect of your health. You can improve yours by following these practices.

Fennel Essential Oil

Fennel essential oil (Foeniculum vulgare) is an acquired taste — there is no doubt about it. Strong licorice-like flavor with a hint of herb and spice, it is true that this essential oil is not one that most people reach for instinctively. However, with its wide array of health benefits, it would be a terrible shame to disregard this oil simply because of its more unique scent.

 

Hence, in this article, we will be exploring all things related to fennel essential oil — from the extraction of the essential oil to its myriad benefits.

 

What is Fennel Essential Oil Made Of?

 

Fennel essential oil is made of the seeds of the fennel plants. Green and white with yellow flowers, fennel is an evergreen perennial native to the Mediterranean. Today, fennel plants are found all around the world and commonly grown in vegetable and herb gardens.

 

Fennel, fennel essential oil, and dried fennel seeds have multiple uses and are often utilized in cooking and baking as well as a typical addition to perfumes, soaps, skincare, and pharmaceuticals.

 

How is Fennel Essential Oil Extracted?

 

The essential oil of fennel is extracted via steam distillation of the fennel seeds. Here, crushed fennel seeds are subjected to hot steam that converts the natural oil in the seeds into vapor. The vapor is then condensed into liquid fennel essential oil.

 

Benefits of Fennel Essential Oil

 

1.      Heals wounds

 

Fennel essential oil and fennel itself has long been used to heal wounds, scrapes, and cuts. For example, in ancient China, fennel was used as a remedy for snakebite.

 

This likely because of the antibacterial and antimicrobial compounds within fennel — such as limonene ­­­— that help to prevent infection and speed up the healing of wounds.

 

2.      Reduces and prevents spasms

 

Spasms are abnormal contractions in the intestines, muscles, nerves, or respiratory tracts that result in coughing, hiccups, cramps, pain, convulsion, and even epilepsy. Not only painful, but spasms can also be fatal if not properly treated.

 

Here is how fennel essential oil can help: the oil has a relaxing effect on nerves, muscles, and the respiratory system. This helps to provide some quick relief to the conditions mentioned above.

 

A study on the effect of fennel seed oil in infantile colic found that the oil reduces intestinal spasms and increases the movement of cells in the intestines of infants. The findings then concluded that the oil helps to decrease the intensity of colic in infants.

 

3.      As a remedy for digestive issues

 

Fennel essential oil is a carminative and it provides some much-needed relief from digestive problems such as indigestion, gas, bloating, pain in the abdomen, and constipation. It even helps to stop the formation of additional gases.

 

Excellent for those suffering from the above conditions, fennel essential oil helps to keep the digestive system healthy and functioning properly.

 

To allow the essential oil to work its magic, add one or two drops of the oil to your water or tea. Alternatively, combine two drops of fennel essential oil with a carrier oil (coconut oil, for example) and massage onto your abdomen and the bottom of your feet for some quick relief.

 

4.      Contains remarkable antioxidants and powerful compounds

 

Packed to the brim with antioxidants and powerful compounds, fennel essential oil has been shown to contain more than 87 volatile compounds. This includes the polyphenol antioxidants chlorogenic acid, gallic acid, cinnamic acid, rosmarinic acid, quercetin, and apigenin.

 

Besides that, fennel essential oil also contains compounds such as anethole, fenchone, and limonene. These are all vital for the good health of the body. For instance, anethole is anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic and chemopreventive, antidiabetic, and neuroprotective — amongst other things, of course. Limonene, on the other hand, has been shown to demonstrate immunomodulatory properties and may even help with asthma and allergies.

 

5.      Helps with chronic cough

 

Fennel essential oil also provides relief for congestion of the respiratory system (due to cold and viral infection) and chronic coughs.

 

In fact, in Germany and the United States, fennel essential oil is often used as an expectorant in cough remedies. For example, fennel can be found as an ingredient in expectorant syrups and lozenges for coughs.

 

6.      Adds flavor to dishes

 

Besides that, fennel also absolutely belongs in the kitchen. Everything from fennel seeds to fennel essential oil is a great addition to the kitchen. As fennel oil has strong flavors, it adds some “oomph!” to just about any dish.

 

To utilize the potent flavor of fennel in cooking, start small to make sure that the essential oil does not overpower the dishes. Try adding a toothpick’s amount to soups and stir-fries. Alternatively, fennel essential oil also adds a delicious complexity to dips and salads.

 

7.      Minimizes sugar cravings

 

For those of you who are cutting out sugar as part of your New Year’s resolution, fennel essential oil should be your new best friend. Its naturally sweet taste is a great substitute for processed sugar and sweets. This is because fennel contains trans-Anethole, a compound that is 13 times sweeter than table sugar. As a matter of fact, trans-anethole is even used as a flavoring agent in the United States and various other countries.

 

To fight the siren calls of processed sugar, simply add a drop of fennel essential oil in water or a green juice. Alternatively, place a drop of the essential oil on your toothbrush to help with the cravings.

 

8.      Enhances productivity

 

When the mid-afternoon slump looms near, whip out your fennel essential oil to get you to the finishing line. The essential oil can help you to regroup and redirect your focus for productivity.

 

To allow fennel essential oil’s distinctive and stimulating aroma to revive your productivity, add a few drops of the oil to your diffuser.

 

9.      Perfect as a stimulant

 

On top of that, fennel essential oil also stimulates all the essential activities in the body. For example, it stimulates the nervous system, the secretions from endocrine and exocrine glands (including enzymes, saliva, mucus, and sweat), and the digestive system.

 

This helps to keep the systems working regularly and this, in turn, ensures that the body is healthy.

 

Mixing Fennel Essential Oil with Other Essential Oils

 

Now, unlike the typical floral scents, fennel essential oil requires a little more thought when it comes to blending it with other essential oils.

 

Its unique sweet and earthy scent blends perfectly with spice essential oils like cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg.

 

Alternatively, fennel essential oil is also excellent when used as a juxtaposition for fresh citrus essential oils like lime and bergamot.

 

Of course, this distinctive essential oil pairs well with the typical floral scents mentioned above, too. This includes lavender and rose.

 

Other Good-to-Know Information

 

Fennel essential oil is typically safe and not very prone to causing an allergic reaction. However, even then, you should always start with a patch test before using the essential oil liberally.

 

Besides that, fennel also potentially interacts with certain medications, including estrogen pills and cancer medication. Hence, it is a good idea to check with your physician first before using the oil in high doses.

 

Is Fennel Essential Oil Right For You?

 

Indeed, fennel essential oil is not for everyone because of its distinctive aroma. However, once you look (and smell) beyond its scent, you will discover an extremely beneficial essential oil that can do wonders for your body.

The Importance Of Your Well-Being

Feelings of well-being are important to have to ensure overall positive health. Not only does our well-being account for our physical health and happiness, but it has a lot to do with our emotional and mental health as well. Stress, challenges, and negative attitudes threaten to derail our well-being, so we need to find ways to combat all of them.

What Is The Definition Of Well-Being?

There are different ways to define well-being, but the core of this word has to do with how we feel on the inside. Whether it is meditation or anti-aging serums, there are many ways we can promote well-being at home to improve our life.

Exercise And Well-Being

Exercise is an integral component of our well-being. Many people feel a sense of happiness and satisfaction after working out. It provides them with energy, helps relieve stress, and also helps regulate their sleeping patterns.

All of those combined can make a significantly positive difference in our mental and physical well-being. Ultimately, exercising helps ensure that we maintain our strength and get enough rest.

Meditation And Gratitude

Meditation increases our sense of well-being and allows us to slow down and reflect on all of the positive things in our life. When meditating, think about what you are grateful for and make channeling positivity a daily practice in your life. This kind of behavior will help you find fulfillment.

During a meditation session, cross your legs into a lotus position or sit on a chair or cushion. You should prepare the space for meditation by dimming the lights and diffusing essential oils such as sandalwood, frankincense, or cedarwood. These essential oils can alleviate stress, ease your senses, and calm your mind.

Quick Recovery

When we are in good health, our well-being allows us to experience a much quicker recovery after illness. Sound health equates to a healthy body and mind. To help spur this positivity, we can take advantage of aromatherapy. Lavender essential oil, for example, has a fresh and floral scent that can soothe us at the end of a long day. It also promotes relaxation and stress relief, which gives our body the time it needs to heal.

Self-Care

Our well-being is important to self-care as well. Self-care includes all the activities we engage in to take care of ourselves and ensure our overall wellness. These activities encompass our physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health.

Our well-being is important because it leads us to happiness, health, stability, and purpose. That’s why we should do everything we can to preserve it.

 

Meta Description: Looking after your well-being is just as important as keeping your physical health in check. Here are some ways to ensure your wellness right at home.

Citronella Essential Oil

Both intense and both bearing a lemon-like aroma, there are two types of citronella essential oils. First, you have the Java variety (Cymbopogon winterianus) and then you have the Ceylon variety (Cymbopogon nardus).

 

Today, we will be delving deep into Ceylon citronella oil and find out all there is to know about this fascinating oil. Let’s get started!

 

What is Citronella Essential Oil Made Of?

 

Ceylon citronella essential oil is derived from an aromatic grass from the Poaceae family: citronella (meaning “lemon balm” in French). Tall and slender, citronella is often mistaken for lemongrass because of the similarity in their appearance.

 

Citronella thrives in tropical and subtropical climates as it needs plenty of sunshine and constant rainfall throughout the year. Hence, if you have a look at the medical history of countries like China, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka, you will notice citronella’s prominent presence as a natural remedy.

 

Today, Ceylon citronella essential oil remains highly-prized not only because of its medicinal properties but also because of its many other benefits.

How is Ceylon Citronella Essential Oil Extracted?

 

First, the leaves of the citronella are harvested, usually with a sickle. The leaves are then left to dry for approximately 24 hours in order to remove any excess moisture. Next, the leaves are steam distilled to get the yellow essential oil.

 

This is where hot steam is pushed through the leaves. The steam is then cooled into a mixture of citronella essential oil and water. As the oil will float to the top, it can then be separated from the water.

 

Benefits of Ceylon Citronella Essential Oil

 

1.      Naturally repels insects

 

Ceylon citronella essential oil is, of course, most popularly known for its ability to repel insects. In fact, citronella has been registered as a plant-based insect repellent in the United States since 1948.

 

Studies have found that the oil is effective on mosquitoes — particularly Aedes aegypti, which are responsible for spreading dengue fever and the Zika virus.

 

Besides that, research published in the Israel Medical Association Journal concluded that citronella can be used as an effective lice-control.

 

To ward of insects, you can combine several drops of the Ceylon citronella essential oil with coconut oil and use it just like a body lotion. Reapply every few hours or when needed. Alternatively, add the essential oil to a spray bottle with water and spray it all over your body and clothes for fuller coverage.

 

If your pet is flea-ridden, spray or rub a bit of citronella on its collar to keep those dreaded parasites away from your furkid. Your home can also benefit from the oil as well. Place a few drops of the essential oil into your diffuser to ensure that your home is insect-free.

 

2.      Inhibits fungal growth

 

Aside from keeping the bugs away, Ceylon citronella essential oil is also an effective antifungal agent. Multiple studies have shown that citronella oil kills fungus and inhibits fungal growth that can cause health problems.

 

A study in Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology explored the antifungal effect of the essential oil against a strain of fungus called Aspergillus niger — a common contaminant of food. The study found that citronella oil ruptures the cell wall of the fungus and ultimately kills the harmful organisms within the cell that can cause infection.

 

Plus, Ceylon citronella essential oil is also effective in inhibiting Candida fungus, athlete’s foot, and acne.

 

For an easy at-home remedy to inhibit fungus, dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil (such as coconut oil) and apply topically.

 

3.      Reduces pain

 

If you are looking for a natural alternative to painkiller pills, Ceylon citronella essential oil is it. While citronella is not as effective as over-the-counter pills (and, therefore, not appropriate for serious pain), its analgesic properties can absolutely help you to manage lower levels of pain.

 

4.      Fights infections and bacteria

 

Ceylon citronella essential oil targets bacteria like Escherichia coli to prevent infections (in wounds and even infections in the digestive system, urethra, prostate, and kidneys), pneumonia, and food-borne illnesses. Apart from that, even the cultivation of seafood is safer because of citronella essential oil usage as commercial antibiotics for aquaculture use.

 

Additionally, you can also use citronella oil to clean your home — especially the kitchen and the bathroom. Simply dilute the essential oil with some water in a spray bottle and get to work. Its citrusy and uplifting scent is sure to naturally refresh the house, too.

 

5.      Promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety

 

As Ceylon citronella essential oil is an anxiolytic, it helps to reduce anxiety and works as a natural stress relief. So, whip out the essential oil and diffuse it in your home when you are having a rough day. It will ease negative feelings such as sadness, stress, and anxiety. The essential oil may even help to lull you to sleep, too.

 

A study in 2012 also showed that citronella appears to activate both sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous activity. The sympathetic nervous system essentially reinvigorates you and prepares the body for physical activity. It is what is commonly referred to as the fight-or-flight response. The parasympathetic nervous system, on the other hand, slows down and relaxes your body. Thus, citronella oil puts you in the optimum state of being both stimulated and relaxed.

 

6.      Excellent as shampoo and conditioner

 

If you have not tried using Ceylon citronella oil to cleanse and condition your hair, you are missing out! The essential oil eliminates excess oil, dandruff, grease, and knots while adding shine and volume to your mane.

 

For a shampoo that rids your hair and scalp of all the undesirable things, mix two to three drops of the essential oil with your regular shampoo. You can do the same for conditioner or, alternatively, warm up a few drops of the essential oil and work it into the ends of your hair. After a couple of minutes, rinse out the oil. You can use the oil to style your locks, too. In this case, a very small amount of citronella oil is needed.

 

Mixing Ceylon Citronella Essential Oil with Other Essential Oils

 

Any citrusy essential oils will blend well with Ceylon citronella essential oils. So, try and mix citronella with essential oils like bergamot, lemon, and orange. Apart from that, Ceylon citronella oil also does well with woodsy scents like cedarwood, pine, and sandalwood.

 

Other Good-to-Know Information

 

Generally, Ceylon citronella essential oil is considered extremely safe to be used. However, it would be best to still take some precautions.

 

First, before using the essential oil, always start with a patch test first. This is to ensure that you do not have any adverse reaction to the oil such as swelling, redness, or hives. Besides that, you should also avoid getting the essential oil near your eyes, inner nose, or other especially sensitive areas to prevent side effects. Side effects, in this case, include irritation of the skin, seizures, and more.

 

Is Ceylon Citronella Essential Oil Right for You?

 

Brimming with benefits for your skin, body, hair, and home, Ceylon citronella essential oil is considered to be one of the best essential oils in the market. So, there is really no reason to not give this essential oil a try.

Cinnamon Essential Oil

Cassia cinnamon essential oil is spicy, warm, and familiar to just about everyone all over the world — just like its close relative Ceylon cinnamon essential oil. Because of its close similarity to Ceylon cinnamon essential oil (which is frequently referred to as “true cinnamon”), it is often used as a more economical substitute for it. In fact, most ground cinnamon and cinnamon sticks you see in the market are really cassia.

 

However, while the two types of cinnamon essential oils share many similarities, they also have some very notable differences.

 

For this article, we are going to look at the subtler of the two — cassia cinnamon essential oil — and we will be covering everything from its benefits to what other essential oils it is compatible with.

 

What is Cassia Cinnamon Essential Oil Made Of?

 

Cassia cinnamon essential oil comes from the Cinnamomum cassia tree — also known as Chinese cassia and Chinese cinnamon. Native to southern China, cassia cinnamon is also widely cultivated across Southern and Southeast Asia, including India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam.

 

The cassia cinnamon trees are evergreen and can grow up to approximately 18 meters. The trees have shiny elongated leaves and tiny clusters of yellow flowers. Every part of the trees — bark, twigs, leaves, flowers, and roots — exudes that familiar spicy-sweet scent.

 

Chock-full of benefits, cinnamon (and its essential oil) has been extremely popular throughout history. Way back when, ancient Romans, Chinese, Greeks and Egyptians all considered the spice to be vital. In fact, it was even mentioned in the Bible.

 

How is Cassia Cinnamon Essential Oil Extracted?

 

The cassia cinnamon essential oil is derived via steam distillation of the bark of the tree. Aside from that, the essential oil can also be extracted from the leaves of the plant but this is much less common.

 

Here, the bark is subjected to pressurized high heat and moisture in order to draw out the oil. The oil and moisture mixture is then cooled down to help to separate the oil from the water, resulting in pure cassia cinnamon essential oil.

 

Benefits of Cassia Cinnamon Essential Oil

 

1.      Relieves arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis

 

Suffering from stiff joints, aching joints, and swelling? Well, cassia cinnamon essential oil can help with that. A study by scientists showed that cinnamaldehyde, an active compound in cassia cinnamon essential oil, not only inhibits inflammatory mediators but also activates anti-inflammatory mediators.

 

Essentially, the oil’s anti-inflammatory properties naturally alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Besides that, its warming effect also helps to relieve pain and induce relaxation.

 

To use cassia cinnamon essential oil for this purpose, mix the oil with a carrier oil (like jojoba) and massage gently onto the joints and other affected areas using a circular motion.

 

2.      Treats diarrhea

 

Cassia cinnamon essential oil can help with various digestive problems and one of them is diarrhea. Diarrhea basically is the body’s natural reaction to toxins that need to be removed from the body. Likely causes include stomach flu, infection, and dehydration.

 

As the essential oil is an anti-diarrhea agent, it helps to bind the bowels and to stop diarrhea. Besides that, its anti-microbial properties also inhibit unwanted microbial growth.

 

3.      May help treat diabetes

 

It has been suggested that cassia cinnamon essential can naturally treat diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels. A 2003 study published in Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology investigated the effect of cassia extract on diabetic rats for 30 days. Results showed that the effect of the extract “was even more prominent than that of glibenclamide” — a medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes.

 

In a different study in 2005, 15 people with diabetes were given either a cassia fiber supplement or a placebo. The study concluded that the group that was given the cassia supplements had decreased (and lower) levels of serum triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol.

 

More research is needed for conclusive results as the sample sizes of the studies are too small. However, for now, the prospect of using cassia cinnamon essential oil to treat diabetes is extremely promising.

 

4.      Boosts Immune System

 

Need overall protection for your body? Well, look no further than cassia cinnamon essential oil. Its antiviral properties mean that it is excellent protection against cold, cough, and influenza. Besides that, a study published in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine found that the cinnamaldehyde in the oil is effective in inhibiting the growth of various bacteria, fungi, and molds. This includes Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, Salmonella typhimurium, and Candida.

 

Plus, its antimicrobial and antiviral properties make it an excellent febrifuge to fight infections that cause fever. What a holistic essential oil, indeed.

 

To battle cold and flu, diffuse two to three drops of the cassia cinnamon essential oil. Alternatively, just inhale the oil once or twice every day until the symptoms are gone.

 

5.      Encourages good circulation

 

Cassia cinnamon essential oil improves blood circulation throughout the body to facilitate the proper distribution of nutrients and oxygen. This is an extremely helpful benefit for overall good health.

 

With good blood circulation, the risks of stroke and heart attack are drastically lowered. Additionally, improved blood circulation also helps with things like naturally relieving muscle aches and reducing inflammation.

 

6.      Works as an antidepressant

 

If you are suffering from depression or just having the blues, cassia cinnamon essential oil has the power to reduce those negative feelings courtesy of the cinnamaldehyde in it.

 

Multiple studies have shown that cinnamaldehyde can help to lift the heavy burden of depression. Apart from that, the cinnamaldehyde is also able to alleviate stress and anxiety for a better quality of life.

 

To use the essential oil as an antidepressant or to bust stress and anxiety, simply inhale the oil. Or, diffuse a few drops of the oil around the room.

 

7.      A remarkable addition to your skincare routine

 

Cassia oil’s astringent properties also mean that it is an excellent addition to your skincare routine. What it does is that it not only treats acne but it also naturally heals any wounds and prevents scarring— such as those created from picking and popping pimples.

 

Besides that, it also diminishes the appearance of pores as well as lifts your face for a smoother and younger-looking complexion.

 

8.      Natural bug-repellent

 

If you are in the market for a natural bug repellent, cassia cinnamon essential oil is it. A study published in Pest Management Science indicates that cassia oil is effective in warding off mosquitoes. Additionally, the oil may also be effective against other bugs like booklice.

 

To make use of the oil as an insect repellent, simply diffuse a few drops of the essential oil for approximately an hour once or twice a day.

 

Mixing Cassia Cinnamon Essential Oil With Other Essential Oils

 

Cassia essential oil’s familiar warm scent blends extremely well with cedarwood, lavender, lemon, neroli, ylang-ylang, geranium, and chamomile essential oils.

 

Other Good-to-Know Information

 

Cassia cinnamon essential oil contains coumarin — a compound found naturally in some plants — which can damage the kidney, liver, and lung if consumed in large doses. This is because the compound inhibits blood clotting. Hence, be cautious of how you use the essential oil.

 

Is Cassia Cinnamon Essential Oil Right for You?

 

Instantly recognizable by most people, cassia cinnamon essential oil is definitely a right addition to your collection of essential oils if you are in the market for something warm and comforting with just a hint of spice.

Cedarwood Essential Oil

Woodsy, warm, and familiar, cedarwood essential oil has a rich history and has long been used by various cultures. From Native Americans to the Tibetans and ancient Egyptians, cedarwood essential oil is highly valued.

 

However, did you know that there are several species of cedar trees around the world? Plus, some of these trees that are referred to as cedars are actually juniper trees. The four main species of cedar are Atlas cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica), Himalayan cedarwood (Cedrus deodara), Texas cedarwood (Juniperus mexicana), and Virginian cedarwood (Juniperus virginiana).

 

Here, we will highlight the cedarwood essential oil from the Texas cedarwood. Join us as we cover more about this essential oil including its many benefits and other essential oil it blends well with. Let’s begin!

 

What is Texas Cedarwood Essential Oil Made Of?

 

Cedarwood essential oil is derived from the wood of the Texas cedarwood. Potent, balsamic, and woodsy, Texas cedarwood essential oil has properties that are rather similar to Virginian cedarwood as they are both from the Juniper Genus. It is, however, a tad bit more subtle than Virginian cedarwood when it comes to scent.

 

This yellowish to light brown oil has many uses in perfumery, art, and medicine traditionally. It was once used to clarify emeralds, embalm bodies, and as the base for paints. A true multi-tasker, indeed.

 

Now mostly sourced from the United States, the trees are found throughout the Southwestern United States. To prevent waste, many opt to derive the oil from leftover trees and stumps.

 

How is Texas Cedarwood Essential Oil Extracted?

 

The Texas cedarwood essential oil — and also other cedarwood essential oils — is usually extracted by steam distillation. In fact, steam distillation of cedarwood began approximately 5,500 years ago.

 

With steam distillation, hot pressurized steam is forced through the woods. The steam then condenses and is collected.

 

Benefits of Texas Cedarwood Essential Oil

 

1.      Has excellent antiseptic properties

 

Cedrol — a type of alcohol found in various types of cedar oils — makes up approximately 19% of Texas cedarwood essential oil. This alcohol has antiseptic properties which makes it extremely useful in treating minor wounds such as cuts, scrapes, and abrasions.

 

Besides that, it also helps to protect the body against infections, toxins, and harmful bacteria.

 

Mix a few drops of the cedarwood essential oil with a carrier oil (especially coconut oil) and dab it on the affected area gently.

 

2.      Naturally relieves joint pain and inflammation

 

Apart from treating wounds, Texas cedarwood essential oil also helps with alleviating pain caused by arthritis and rheumatism. The cedrol in the oil has anti-inflammatory properties and, thus, eases joint pain and stiffness. In addition to that, its analgesic properties likely help, too.

 

For pain relief, add a few drops of the cedarwood essential oil to your bathwater. Alternatively, mix a few drops of the essential oil with a carrier oil and massage into the sore areas.

 

3.      Helps with respiratory problems

 

On top of that, Texas cedarwood essential oil potentially reduces coughs and clears phlegm from the lungs and respiratory tract. Scientists have shown that inhaling cedrol can treat respiratory infections and help with congestion.

 

Additionally, its anti-spasmodic properties would come in useful to reduce coughs, too.

 

To use the Texas cedarwood essential oil as a remedy, add a few drops of the oil into your diffuser. Alternatively, blend a few drops of the essential oil with a carrier oil and massage onto the chest area.

 

4.      A remedy for insomnia

 

For those of you who are having trouble falling asleep, Texas cedarwood essential oil may be the answer to this problem. It is naturally sedative when inhaled and its scent aids to promote restful sleep.

 

Dab a few drops of the essential oil on your pillow cover or add a few drops to the diffuser to fill the room. For some extra relaxation, add a few drops of the oil to your hot bath. To take it further, add in a few drops of other essential oil that is popularly used for relaxation such as lavender and chamomile. Epsom salts would work, too.

 

5.      A natural relief for stress and anxiety

 

Additionally, Texas cedarwood essential oil can lend some help to relieve stress and anxiety, too, with its natural calming and soothing effects. Studies have shown that cedarwood essential oil can potentially be used to “relax mind and enhance comfort for medical purposes” thanks to the cedrol in the oil.

 

To ease stress, mix Texas cedarwood essential oil with a calming essential oil (lavender would be great here) and a carrier oil. Then massage all over the body, paying close attention to the chest.

 

As another option, add a few drops of the cedarwood oil with bergamot and chamomile essential oils into the diffuser and let it work its magic.

 

6.      Heals problematic skin

 

Texas cedarwood essential oil’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it the ideal treatment for various skin conditions including acne, breakouts, blackheads, and eczema. Not only does the oil prevent the clogging of pores but it also protects the skin from bacteria that cause the said problems.

 

For crystal-clear blemish-free skin, add a few drops of Texas cedarwood essential oil to your cleanser or facial scrub. To use the oil as a spot treatment, dilute it with a carrier oil and apply it to your skin with a swab or cotton ball. Rinse it off after about 20 minutes. Do this once or twice a week. Alternatively, you can add cedarwood essential oils to your moisturizer and toner, too.

 

7.      Works as a natural insect repellent

 

Fleas, ticks, ants, bugs, and moths — Texas cedarwood essential oil works on all of them. Insects hate its odor and the cedrol in the oil is toxic to the insects and their eggs. Hence, the oil is the perfect natural alternative to store-bought harsh chemicals.

 

For a pest-free house, dilute the Texas cedarwood essential oil with some water in a spray bottle. Give the bottle a shake and spray on your clothes, curtains, bedsheets, doorways, and everywhere, really.

 

This solution is also safe to be sprayed on the skin. However, if you are using it on your skin, it would be best to switch out the water with a carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba oils.

 

Mixing Texas Cedarwood Essential Oil with Other Essential Oils

 

For a restful night’s sleep, mixing Texas cedarwood essential oil with lavender or chamomile essential oils is the way to go. The blend will soothe and calm you right down before bedtime, making it easier for sleep to come.

 

If you need some tension-relief, on the other hand, Texas cedarwood’s woodsy fragrance pairs well with Bergamot essential oil’s citrusy scent to keep the stress and anxiety at bay.

 

Warm and comforting, Texas cedarwood essential oil also goes well with herbaceous oils like clary sage and clove.

 

For more options, try blending the cedarwood oil with patchouli, vanilla, or vetiver.

 

Other Good-to-Know Information

 

While Texas cedarwood essential oil is generally recognized as safe, it is not meant to be ingested orally. This is because its potency can cause nausea, vomiting, and damage to the digestive system. Besides that, pregnant and nursing women are also advised not to use the essential oil without consulting their physician.

 

As always with any essential oils, do a patch test before using the oil to ensure there is no allergic reaction or irritation.

 

Is Texas Cedarwood Essential Oil Right for You?

 

If you love essential oils with a warm and woodsy scent, give Texas cedarwood essential oil a shot. You may find that it is everything you are looking for in essential oil.

Cardamom Essential Oil

If you frequently indulge in Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines, you are likely already familiar with the aroma of cardamom essential oil. Cardamom (also known as the queen of spices in many cultures) essential oil is often described as having an intense and intoxicating scent: sweet yet spicy with woody and fruity undertones.

 

An aphrodisiac, a mood-enhancer, a therapeutic oil, and a staple in perfume, there are multiple facades to cardamom essential oil. Let’s explore this intriguing essential oil further including what the oil is made of, how it is extracted, its many benefits, and more.

 

What is Cardamom Essential Oil Made Of?

 

Cardamom essential oil is extracted from the seeds of the cardamom plant (scientifically known as Elettaria cardamomum) — a close relative of ginger and turmeric — which can grow up to as tall as four meters.

 

Native to the Indian subcontinent and Indonesia, cardamom is now also cultivated in other countries like Guatemala, Malaysia, and Tanzania. In fact, the largest producer and exporter of cardamom is currently Guatemala. Another interesting tidbit to note is that Cardamom is the world’s third-most expensive spice, outdone only by vanilla and saffron.

 

As for cardamom fruits, they are mostly somewhere between pale green and a darker yellow as well as oval in shape. Inside each fruit are the seeds — which cardamom essential oil is extracted from.

 

How is Cardamom Essential Oil Extracted?

 

The seeds of cardamom fruits must first be harvested by hand and then undergo an extensive drying process of over three months. This is to ensure the optimization and maximization of the chemical constituents of the seeds.

 

The dried seeds are then steam-distilled. This is where the seeds are subjected to hot steam that converts the natural oil in them into vapor. The vapor is then condensed into liquid cardamom essential oil.

 

Benefits of Cardamom Essential Oil

 

1.      Relieves cold and flu symptoms

 

Cardamom essential oil is one of the best remedies for cold and flu. Its antimicrobial properties help to combat the viruses that cause these illnesses. Besides that, the warmth of the oil helps to ease congestion in the nasal passages and lungs. Plus, its soothing and antispasmodic properties provide some relief against nasty coughs.

 

To use cardamom essential oil to fight symptoms of flu and cold, blend a few drops of the oil with a carrier oil and massage gently onto your chest and abdomen. If you are looking for relief to coughs and congestion, on the other hand, add a few drops of the cardamom essential oil to a bowl of hot water. Cover your head and the bowl with a towel and breathe in the steam deeply for approximately five to 10 minutes.

 

2.      Boosts Oral Health

 

Cardamom essential oil can help to protect against cavities, bad breaths, tooth decay, and gum diseases because of its antibacterial properties. In fact, cardamom has long been used to improve oral health. In certain cultures, people even eat cardamom pods to freshen breaths after a meal.

 

A study in 2009 makes it official by showing that the oil successfully eliminates oral bacteria that cause oral yeast infections — making it an effective treatment for tooth decay.

 

For healthy pearly whites, you can add a couple of drops of cardamom essential oil to your toothpaste or mouthwash. Alternatively, you can replace your commercial mouthwash with the oil. Simply add two drops of the essential oil to some warm water and swish in your mouth for approximately 30 seconds to one minute.

 

3.      Promotes healthy digestion

 

Cardamom essential oil is famously stomachic — which means that it assists in regulating the digestive system for overall digestive health. The way the oil goes about it is by regulating and maintaining proper levels of stomach acids, gastric juices, and bile.

 

In addition, cardamom essential oil’s carminative (a substance that helps to relieve flatulence) properties also have a hand in reducing nausea, bloating, indigestion, and gas.

 

For cardamom essential oil to work its magic, add a drop of the oil to a full glass of water to go with your meal. Alternatively, you can also diffuse the oil or use the oil (together with a carrier oil) as you would a perfume: dab it on your wrists and behind your ears.

 

4.      Has antimicrobial properties and can treat infections

 

Cardamom essential oil’s antiseptic and antimicrobial properties mean that it is perfect for disinfecting cuts, scrapes, and wounds when used topically. Thoroughly clean the affected area, then mix the cardamom essential oil with a carrier oil, and, lastly, apply to the wound before bandaging it.

 

Apart from that, cardamom essential oil can also fight infections. Scientists have shown that the oil is potentially effective against a variety of bacteria strains that cause fungal infections, stomach problems, and food poisoning. This includes Candida (a yeast that causes fungal infections), Salmonella, and Campylobacter.

 

5.      Aids in achieving healthy skin

 

If your skincare routine could do with a little bit of jazzing up, do give cardamom essential oil a try. The oil’s natural antiseptic properties effectively cleanse and disinfect the skin to obliterate acne and reduce breakouts.

 

Besides that, cardamom essential oil also improves skin elasticity and reduces signs of aging (such as wrinkles and fine lines). What is the result of integrating the essential oil with your skincare? Well, rejuvenated supple skin that glows in good health.

 

To get your glow on, simply add a few drops of the oil to your cleanser. Or, as another option, mix a couple of drops of cardamom essential oil with warm water and wipe it gently across your face with a cotton pad.

 

6.      Maintains healthy hair and scalp

 

As cardamom essential oil has high concentrations of linalool and limonene (chemicals found in plants), it can help to relieve inflammation and dryness of the scalp. What this means in practical terms is that they diminish dandruff and prevent itchy scalp.

 

Additionally, the oil can help to restore the shine and enhance the color of your hair, too. Just mix a few drops of cardamom essential oil with your shampoo to effortlessly keep your tresses healthy.

 

Mixing Cardamom Essential Oil with Other Essential Oil

 

Cardamom essential oil blends extremely well with citrus oils including bergamot, orange, tangerine, and lemon. Apart from that, its woody yet fruity scent pairs well with floral oils, too. For example, it does well with rose as well as ylang-ylang essential oils.

 

If you want something a little unique and spicy, partnering cardamom essential oil up with black pepper oil is the way to go.

 

Other Good-to-Know Information

 

While cardamom essential oil is generally safe to use, always test the oil on a small patch of skin before applying the oil to large areas of skin.

 

Be extra careful if you are ingesting the oil. Make sure to thoroughly dilute the oil first. Alternatively, check with a medical professional before you use the oil. This is because a high concentration of cardamom essential oil could result in stomach problems.

 

On a happier note, if you store it properly, cardamom essential oil can (impressively) last up to five years.

 

Is Cardamom Essential Oil Right for You?

 

Alluring, familiar, and potent, cardamom essential oil is certainly no lavender or ylang-ylang — nor is it looking to be. However, its versatility and efficacy make it the ideal choice for just about everyone.