Carrier Oils For Hair Loss

Are you dealing with dry hair or experiencing hair loss or any other issues? Are you looking for ways to improve growth and hair health? If so, there are a few carrier oils for hair loss you should consider adding to your hair care routine.

Coconut Oil

This oil contains lauric acid, which helps bind the proteins in the hair and protects the roots and strands from breakage and other damage. It is also a well-known and natural conditioner that can keep your hair soft, shiny, and healthy. Coconut oil will help the hair grow thicker, longer, and faster because of the essential fatty acids that help remove sebum buildup on the hair follicles.

Argan Oil

This oil can nourish and moisturize the hair and scalp. It protects the hair from everyday damage that can result in hair loss. Argan oil can reduce split ends and breakage and prevent future hair loss by ensuring that your hair grows in thicker and fuller.

Marula Oil

This oil strengthens the hair follicles and helps prevent breakage. Marula oil coats each strand of hair and penetrates the scalp to strengthen each hair follicle from the inside out. This goes a long way in preventing breakage and other types of damage.

Jojoba Oil

This carrier oil is rich in vitamins and minerals that are known to nourish the hair. It also contains fair amounts of Vitamins C, B, and E as well as copper and zinc. Since this oil can strengthen hair, it can also prevent hair loss while promoting thicker hair growth.

Castor Oil

This oil is rich in ricinoleic acid, which is a type of fatty acid known to fight inflammation. When it is used on the scalp and hair, it promotes healthy hair follicles and hair growth while protecting against future hair loss. It can be mixed with coconut oil and used as a hair mask. Massage the mixture into the scalp and leave it on for at least two hours before rinsing.

Tamanu Oil

This oil encourages the growth of long, healthy hair. It hydrates each strand of hair to bring out its natural sheen and makes the hair more manageable. It can soothe inflammation and eliminate any fungal infections there may be on the scalp. Tamanu oil can be used on both wet and dry strands of hair. It promotes moisture retention in the hair and stimulates growth to combat hair loss.

 

Meta Description: If you find that your hair care routine isn’t doing you any good, perhaps a carrier oil is what you need. Here are 6 nourishing oils you can choose from.

Frankincense Essential Oil

Frankincense essential oil (also known as olibanum) is one of the most popular essential oils around and has been used for thousands of years. However, did you know that there are different types of frankincense essential oils? To name a few, you have Boswellia frereana (from Somalia), Boswellia carterii (from East Africa), Boswellia sacra (from Oman and Yemen), and Boswellia serrata (from India).

 

Well, for today, we are going to be directing all our focus to Boswellia serrata — which is believed to be the oldest of all the Frankincenses. Read on now to find out everything there is to know about this ancient essential oil — from what it is made of to its varied uses.

 

What is Frankincense Serrata Essential Oil Made Of?

 

Frankincense serrata essential oil — also commonly known as Indian frankincense — is derived from the resin of the Boswellia serrata trees. These trees are small in stature and grow up to only approximately 22 feet. Sporting narrow leaves and white to slightly pink flowers, Boswellia serrata trees are native to the dry mountainous regions of India and eastern Pakistan.

 

This particular type of Frankincense essential oil is woodsy, light, and mellow. As its scent is highly appealing and pleasant, frankincense serrata essential oil is a common fixture in many perfumes, aromatherapy, and incense.

 

How is Frankincense Serrata Essential Oil Extracted?

 

First, incisions are made to the trees by slashing the bark — this is also called striping — to allow the milky white sap/resin to ooze out. The resin then hardens to a brownish gum and forms what is commonly referred to as tears.

 

Next, the resin crystals (or tears) are crushed into powder and placed in an oil bath. Finally, it is steam distilled to produce the frankincense serrata essential oil you see in stores.

 

Benefits of Frankincense Serrata Essential Oil

 

1.      Reduces pain and improves knee function

 

While the two are often confused for the other, there are actually differences between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis (mentioned below). Osteoarthritis is caused by mechanical wear and tear on joints.

 

Meanwhile, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks the body’s joint.

 

Luckily enough, frankincense serrata essential oil helps with both. In a clinical study, a composition derived from frankincense serrata resin is shown to significantly improve joint pain and functionality. In fact, the patients began to experience significant improvement in as early as seven days of treatment with a higher dose.

 

Besides that, another study published in the Journal of Phytomedicine found that all patients who received Boswellia serrata extract reported decreased knee pain, increased flexibility, increased walking distance, and decreased swelling in the knee joint.

 

2.      Alleviates the pain and discomfort stemming from rheumatoid arthritis

 

One of the most painful symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis is inflammation of and around the joints. Hence, there are many treatments and drugs meant for reducing this inflammation. This includes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and steroids. It has been suggested that frankincense serrata essential oil can be used as an alternative to these drugs because of its anti-inflammatory nature.

 

A 2019 animal study revealed that frankincense serrata essential oil has anti-inflammatory potential and can be utilized as a potential anti-arthritic agent. However, as this study was only using rats and still in a preliminary stage, further research to support the finding is needed.

 

3.      Treats inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD)

 

Additionally, frankincense serrata essential oil may also be effective in treating inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. This is courtesy of the essential oil’s anti-inflammatory properties.

 

A 2001 German study compared frankincense extract to an anti-inflammatory prescription drug and concluded that the extract may be just as effective in treating Crohn’s disease.

 

A different study in the World Journal of Gastroenterology investigates the mitigating effect of boswellic acids on colitis in rats. This research concluded that the result of the study “strongly suggests that these prodrugs might have dual applicability to inflammatory bowel disease.”

 

4.      Potentially has a role in asthma treatment

 

On top of that, this is also the essential oil for those of you suffering from the terrible effects of asthma.

 

The boswellic acids in frankincense serrata essential oil may also be a potential treatment for asthma reaction as they inhibit leukotrienes (which causes bronchial muscles to contract) biosynthesis.

 

A 1998 research published in the European Journal of Medical Research found that patients who were treated with the preparation of frankincense serrata gum resin showed improvement with decreased asthma symptoms and indicators. The researchers posited that the “data shows a definite role of gum resin of Boswellia serrata in the treatment of bronchial asthma.”

 

A more recent study also suggested that boswellic acid is an anti-asthmatic agent and can be beneficial for the treatment of asthma by mitigating allergic responses.

 

5.      Combats negative feelings and enhance moods

 

Considering that frankincense got its name from the French term “franc encens”  which means “high-quality incense”, it is only right that this earthy scent can be used to combat negative feelings (including stress and anxiety) and promote relaxation.

 

A few drops of frankincense essential oil in the diffuser will set the right mood and wash away any negative feelings. If you would like to take it a step further, add a few drops of the oil into your bath water for the ultimate self-care session. Alternatively, spray a mixture of the essential oil and water in your bedroom when it is near bedtime to help you get ready for sleep.

 

6.      Part of your skincare routine

 

Frankincense serrata essential oil can be used as part of your skincare routine, too. By blending frankincense with other essential oils and a carrier oil, the mixture can be used as an effective natural anti-aging serum.

 

Certain early research has shown that frankincense can help with diminishing signs of aging such as fine lines, roughness, and sun damage.

 

Mixing Frankincense Serrata Essential Oil with Other Essential Oils

 

Frankincense serrata essential oil’s scent — exotic, woodsy, and slightly sweet — blends well with citrus essential oils like bergamot, lemon, and sweet orange because of its floral nuances.

 

If you prefer something a little more ‘masculine’ and warm, try frankincense serrata with cedarwood, sandalwood, and myrrh essential oils.

 

Alternatively, play to its floral nuances with floral essential oils such as ylang-ylang, rose, and lavender.

 

Other-Good-to-Know Information

 

As with all essential oils, try frankincense serrata essential oil out via a test patch first. Apply a drop of the essential oil to your inner forearm and cover it up with a bandage. If there is no adverse reaction after 24 hours, frankincense serrata should be a good fit for you.

 

While the essential oil is generally considered to be safe, it may cause digestive side effects (including nausea, acid reflux, stomach pain, and diarrhea) in some people.

 

Besides that, frankincense may also accelerate menstrual flow and may even induce a miscarriage. Therefore, it is advised for those pregnant to steer clear of this essential oil.

 

Is Frankincense Serrata Essential Oil Right for You?

 

With its woodsy, mellow, and comforting scent combined with its many uses, there is really no wonder why frankincense serrata essential oil is a favorite of many. You simply cannot go wrong with this essential oil.

DIY Disinfectant Spray For The Home

With these uncertain times and the spread of the coronavirus, it is more important than ever that we take the steps to disinfect our homes and keep ourselves and our family safe. To do so, you can make a DIY disinfectant spray for the home that contains no chemicals or harmful ingredients.

Preparing a DIY disinfectant spray is a simple and straightforward process. It doesn’t involve expensive supplies or chemicals. All you need are a few simple ingredients and a bit of time to mix them up.

Supplies

Before you get started, you should have distilled water, white vinegar, a dark amber glass spray bottle, and an assortment of essential oils. The essential oils we have included in our DIY sprays have natural disinfecting properties and act as a natural perfume.

If you do not want to use white vinegar, you can substitute it with rubbing alcohol or vodka. However, before using those alternatives on the surfaces of your home, test them out first.

Additionally, distilled water should be used because it contains no contaminants and only has natural minerals. This means that no residue will be left behind when you use the sprays.

For Hard Surfaces

This spray can be used on doorknobs, light switches, counters, toilets, faucets, trash cans, furniture, mattresses, carpets, rugs, and other hard surfaces around the home.

What You Need

• 414 ml of at least 70% alcohol (ethanol, vodka 140 proof or higher, or isopropyl alcohol)
• 5 ml of hydrogen peroxide
• 30 drops of tea tree oil
• 15 drops of lemon essential oil
• 15 drops of lavender essential oil
• 15 drops of eucalyptus essential oil

Directions

Fill the bottle most of the way with the alcohol you have chosen. Add half a teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide to help inactivate viruses, and then add the essential oils. These essential oils can be used as a home perfume as they smell great when combined. You will find that this combination of oils can help with odor and fight mold and mildew. It is antimicrobial as well.

For The Air And Soft Surfaces

This DIY disinfectant spray can be used in every room of the home. Be careful spraying it on soft surfaces because hydrogen peroxide has been known to alter the color of some fabrics.

What You Need

• 326 ml distilled water
• 118 ml of rubbing alcohol or pure grain alcohol
• 118 ml of white vinegar
• 15-30 drops of essential oils of your choosing

Note: These combinations work well as a disinfectant spray for the home:

• 16 drops of lemon and 12 drops of lavender
• 20 drops of peppermint and 10 drops of orange
• 12 drops of tea tree and 8 drops of rosemary
• 14 drops of cinnamon, 8 drops of clove, and 6 drops of orange
• 20 drops of lemon and 10 drops of orange

Directions

Combine all of these ingredients in an amber glass spray bottle. Shake the bottle to combine the ingredients before every use.

Making your own DIY disinfectant spray at home is easy and only requires a few ingredients to help sanitize your living spaces and make them safer for the family.

 

Meta Description: You don’t have to resort to commercial products containing harsh chemicals to sanitize your home. Instead, you can create and use a DIY disinfectant spray.

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Did you know that eucalyptus is not only well-known because it is commonly associated with koala bears but also because of its essential oil? Eucalyptus essential oil contains a plethora of benefits and is commonly found in many health and body care products.

 

There are about 500 varieties of eucalyptus that are used in the production of essential oils. The global production, however, is dominated by Eucalyptus globulus (also known as Bluegum) and this is the eucalyptus essential oil we will be exploring today. Read on now to find out all you need to know about eucalyptus essential oil.

 

What is Eucalyptus Essential Oil Made Of?

 

Eucalyptus essential oil is derived from the oval-shaped leaves of eucalyptus trees. These trees belong to the plant family Myrtaceae and are native to Australia. However, today, the Eucalyptus Globulus trees are grown all over the world including in China, India, Brazil, South Africa, and certain parts of Europe.

They can typically grow to a height of around 45 meters, or, if they are in particularly ideal conditions, they can even grow up to as tall as 100 meters.

 

When it comes to eucalyptus oil, the geographical conditions under which the trees grow are of the utmost importance. This is because the conditions will directly affect the yield of the oil. The conditions to consider include the environment, season, climate, soil nutrients, water flow, and genetic variation.

 

How is Eucalyptus Essential Oil Extracted?

 

Eucalyptus essential oil is extracted from fresh or partially dried eucalyptus leaves. First, the eucalyptus leaves are carefully dried and crushed. They are then steam distilled in order to release the essential oil. As a result of the potency of eucalyptus oil, it must first be diluted before general use.

 

Benefits of Eucalyptus Essential Oil

 

1.      Addresses and improves respiratory conditions

 

One of the best essential oils for respiratory conditions, eucalyptus essential oil is believed to be effective against conditions like asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, colds, flu, and cough. In fact, eucalyptus is commonly found in many products used for relieving symptoms of respiratory problems including lozenges and inhalants.

 

One of the reasons that eucalyptus oil is so effective for these problems is because it helps to stimulate and kick your immune system into gear, provide some much-needed antioxidants, and improve respiratory circulation.

 

For example, a research in 2004 showed that Eucalyptus globulus oil helps to reduce inflammation caused by chronic bronchitis and inhibits the hypersecretion of airway mucins in animal studies.

 

To relieve congestion, add a drop or two of eucalyptus essential oil onto a face cloth and inhale it. Alternatively, add approximately five drops of eucalyptus oil to a bowl of hot water. Then, cover your head as well as the bowl and proceed to breathe in the steam for around 10 to 15 minutes. The hot steam with the oil’s wonderful properties will help to get the mucus flowing and drain the airways to ease congestion.

 

2.      Relieves coughs

 

As stated above, eucalyptus essential oil has proven to be excellent in easing hacking coughs. In addition to acting as an expectorant — purging your body of the bacteria and toxins that are causing the coughs — eucalyptus oil also makes it easier to breathe.

 

This is why many cough medicines — for example, Vicks VapoRub — have eucalyptus essential oil as one of the ingredients.

 

For some relief from persistent coughs, inhale the vapor. Alternatively, mix the eucalyptus essential oil with a carrier oil and gently massage it onto your chest.

 

3.      Treats wounds

 

Once used by the Australian aborigines to treat and disinfect wounds, several studies have since proven the efficacy of eucalyptus essential oil in healing wounds.

 

The essential oil’s antiseptic and antimicrobial properties make it an excellent remedy for all sorts of irritations such as cuts, wounds, sores, burns, blisters, dermatitis, and even insect bites.

 

To use eucalyptus oil as an antiseptic cleaner, mix around five to seven drops of the essential oil with a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar and gently dab on the wounds or cuts with a clean cotton pad.

 

4.      Prevents infection

 

Besides that, eucalyptus essential oil is also perfect for preventing infection because of its top-notch antimicrobial activities.

 

A study in the Alternative Medicine Review found that eucalyptus essential oil and its major component, eucalyptol, have antimicrobial effects against many strains of bacteria, viruses, and fungi (including Candida).

 

Then, you have a different study in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine concluding that the essential oil is a natural antibiotic for the treatment of infectious diseases caused by E.coli and S. aureus, too.

 

5.      Soothes joint and muscle pain

 

Apart from the above, research also suggests that eucalyptus essential oil eases pain and reduces inflammation. When applied topically, the oil helps to reduce muscle pain, soreness, and swelling caused by conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. As a matter of fact, many over-the-counter ointments for these conditions have eucalyptus as one of their ingredients, too.

 

A research into the effect of inhaling eucalyptus oil on pain and inflammatory responses after total knee replacement showed that the oil is a “valuable nursing intervention for pain relief after TKR.”

 

For some quick assuaging of pain, mix five to seven drops of the essential oil with a carrier oil (such as jojoba or moringa oils) and massage the combination onto the muscles. Alternatively, for some overall comfort, add 20-30 drops of the essential oil to your hot bath. The hot water will also help to relax the aching muscles.

 

6.      Repels pests

 

Eucalyptus essential oil is an extremely effective insect repellent and insecticide. So effective that the United States officially registered the oil as an insecticide and miticide (killing mites and ticks) in 1948.

A 2012 research showed that eucalyptus essential oil is a viable option to control larvae and pupae of the housefly.

 

2020 may be the Chinese zodiac’s year of the rat but if you are not a fan of rodents, you will be extremely grateful for eucalyptus essential oil. A 2014 study found that the oil significantly repels rats. For this to work, you need to add around 20 or so drops of the essential oil to a spray bottle filled with water. Then, proceed to spray the solution around the house, paying particular attention to the areas near your pantry. However, if you have pets, do exercise extra care as eucalyptus can be irritating for them.

 

Mixing Eucalyptus Essential Oil with Other Essential Oils

 

Fresh, clean, sweet, and slightly camphoraceous, eucalyptus blends well with the citrusy scents of lemon and lemongrass essential oils. Besides that, eucalyptus’s strong top note pairs well with cedarwood, lavender, rosemary, and thyme essential oils, too.

 

Eucalyptus and peppermint essential oils are also a common pairing in soaps, lotions, and other body care products.

 

Other Good-to-Know Information

 

Eucalyptus essential oil should not be consumed orally and should only be used aromatically or topically.

 

Besides that, eucalyptus is also considered highly allergenic. This is why it is vital to do an allergy test before using the essential oil.

 

Those with asthma should also proceed with caution as eucalyptus essential oil can potentially worsen their condition.

 

Is Eucalyptus Essential Oil Right For You?

 

There is a reason eucalyptus essential oil is so very celebrated and in-demand: it is flexible, effective, and chock-full of benefits. Quite frankly, it is one of the best essential oils to have at hand.

Cubeb Essential Oil

Cubeb essential oil (also known as Piper cubeba and Java pepper) has a rich and long history since as early as the 4th century. Yet, today, the oil remains unknown and unfamiliar to many. Enticing, mellow, and warming, cubeb essential oil is the perfect alternative to black pepper essential oil (Piper nigrum) because of their many shared similarities.

 

Read on as we delve deeper into this underrated yet unique essential oil to uncover a hidden gem. We will be exploring everything from the extraction process of cubeb essential oil to its many wonderful uses. Let’s begin!

 

What is Cubeb Essential Oil Made of?

 

Warm and sweet with a slight hint of pepper, cubeb essential oil is derived from the fruits of the cubebs plants. Cubeb plants are native to Java and Sumatra Islands but are also grown in India, Sri Lanka, and Reunion, too.

 

The fruits of the cubeb plants grow on strings but on separate little stalks. As cubeb plants belong to the same family as Piper nigrum, cubeb fruits are also shaped like black pepper. The obvious differences are that cubebs are larger in size but slightly less fragrant when compared to black pepper.

 

How is Cubeb Essential Oil Extracted?

 

The fully-grown fruits are gathered before they are ripe and carefully sun-dried. Then, they are crushed before undergoing the steam distillation process. Here, hot pressurized steam is pushed through the cubeb fruits to release the essential oil in the fruits. The steam with the essential oil is then cooled and condensed into a liquid of essential oil and water. The two are then separated resulting in the cubeb essential oil you see in stores.

 

Benefits of Cubeb Essential Oil

 

1.      Eases chest congestion and other respiratory problems

 

Cubeb essential oil is often used as a remedy for phlegm, bronchitis, asthma, chest and nasal congestions, coughs, throat infections, and other infections. This is likely because of its rather camphoraceous nature. Camphor works by stimulating nerve endings to relieve symptoms like pain and itchiness — which is often associated with coughing and throat irritations.

 

For some swift relief, place a few drops of cubeb essential oil into a bowl of hot water. Make sure that the water is not too hot. Next, cover the bowl and your head with a towel and inhale the hot steam for about ten to fifteen minutes. Alternatively, massage a few drops of the essential onto your throat, chest, and back.

 

2.      Aids healthy digestion

 

Just like black pepper essential oil, cubeb oil can help to address various digestive issues such as loss of appetite, indigestion, constipation, intestinal worms, and flatulence.

 

Cubeb essential oil is carminative by nature and, thus, it naturally relieves flatulence as well as bloating. To ease these problems, mix two drops of cubeb essential oil with a carrier oil — like coconut oil — and massage the blend onto your abdomen.

 

Apart from that, a 2012 study to investigate the effect of cubeb essential oil against Schistosoma mansoni (parasites that live in the blood vessels near the human intestine) also suggested that this essential oil is effective against worms that cause parasitic diseases.

 

3.      Addresses various dental problems

 

As cubeb essential oil is astringent and has antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, it helps to kill harmful organisms that cause all sorts of dental issues. This includes cavities, bad breath (or halitosis), bleeding gums, infections, plaque, and gingivitis.

 

For healthy gum and teeth, mix one drop of cubeb oil with a cup of warm water and use it as a gargle.

 

4.      Rich in sesquiterpenes

 

Additionally, one of the main chemical components in cubeb essential oil is sesquiterpenes. Sesquiterpenes are naturally occurring chemical compounds known for their various health and wellness benefits. Not only antiseptic and anti-inflammatory but sesquiterpenes also help to stimulate the glands and can go beyond the blood-brain barrier. This is particularly useful as that means that they can essentially increase the amount of oxygen in the brain.

 

5.      Excellent pharmacological properties

 

Monoterpenes — compounds found in the essential oil of plants — are another major player in cubeb essential oil. Monoterpenes are particularly useful because they are endowed with various pharmacological properties. These properties include antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anticancer antioxidant, antiarrhythmic, anti-aggregating, antinociceptive, antihistaminic and anti-spasmodic.

 

Besides that, monoterpenes also act as regulators of growth and heat. Plus, they are effective as an insect repellant, too.

 

6.      As an alternative to black pepper essential oil in massages

 

If you are in the market for an essential oil to substitute black pepper oil, cubeb essential oil is it. A tab bit more subtle and less peppery than black pepper, cubeb oil is great for more relaxing massages. Its warmth sinks quickly into the skin to ease aching muscles while its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties soothe any other pain.

 

For a relaxing and rejuvenating massage, blend one or two drops of cubeb essential oil with a carrier oil. Then, slowly work the mixture onto your body, paying particular attention to any sore muscles, joints, and such.

 

7.      Boosts overall health

 

Cubeb essential oil is also rich in beta-caryophyllene — a type of terpene found in nature — and, hence, it can help to promote overall good health. This is because beta-caryophyllene is vital to the body. One of the things beta-caryophyllene is especially useful in is aiding the vascular system by improving blood flow to the brain. Plus it reduces high levels of cholesterol in addition to reducing stress to the heart.

 

On top of that, multiple studies also seem to suggest that beta-caryophyllene can be used as protection against terrible diseases such as Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, and Multiple Sclerosis.

 

It is also extremely valuable in that beta-caryophyllene can help to reduce neuroinflammation (inflammation in the brain) to minimize brain damage after a stroke.

 

8.      Rids the skin of impurities

 

Antibacterial in nature, cubeb essential oil can be incorporated into your skincare routine to rid the skin of impurities and bacteria, too.

 

Besides that, its anti-inflammatory properties can also calm and soothe irritated or acne-prone skin for a smoother complexion.

 

Mixing Cubeb Essential Oil with Other Essential Oils

 

Cubeb essential oil blends beautifully with other spice oils such as clove, oregano, allspice, and thyme essential oils.

 

Apart from that, cubeb essential oil also wonderfully complements floral scents as it tends to add more complexity to these floral scents. For example, cubeb essential oil goes well with lavender, geranium, ylang-ylang, and patchouli.

 

Besides that, if you are one for woodsy essential oils, consider mixing them with cubeb, too, for a more potent aroma.

 

Lastly, cubeb essential oil also pairs well with citrus essential oils including bergamot, grapefruit, lime, lemon, and mandarin essential oils.

 

Other Good-to-Know Information

 

As with all other essential oils, make sure to start with a patch test before using cubeb essential oil liberally. Apply a small amount of the oil to your inner forearm. Then, cover it up with a bandage. In the next 24 hours, if there is no allergic reaction or irritation, it should be safe to use.

 

Is Cubeb Essential Oil Right For You?

 

A mellower (and less popular) essential oil than black pepper but just as potent and beneficial, cubeb essential oil is definitely deserving of a place in your collection.

What Is “Me Time” And Why Is It Important?

Simply put, “me time” is time that we set aside for ourselves. It is time we can use to be alone, practice self-care, and boost our well-being. We can spend it doing something only for ourselves without having to worry about anyone else in our life.

When you take the opportunity to have me time, you will enjoy many benefits for your physical, mental, and emotional health. Read on to take a closer look at some of them.

Benefits Of Me Time

Me time is important because it is a way for us to rejuvenate and reenergize ourselves. It allows us to take the time to think more clearly and make better and more informed decisions. When we schedule me time in our day, we are also effectively building up our self-esteem while engaging in activities we love during this much-needed break.

Additionally, me time is important because it can help enhance other aspects of our life. It promotes better sleeping habits, reduces fatigue, eases depression and anxiety, makes us more resistant to sickness, releases tension, and melts away stress.

Taking Me Time

You will probably find that carving out me time may prove to be a challenge because of how busy our everyday lives can get. However, you need to allow yourself this time, even if it is just thirty minutes a day, so you can unwind and de-stress. Set an alarm if you have to remind yourself that this is an essential part of the day that shouldn’t be ignored or put off.

Me time is different for everyone. Some may find that reading a book or watching the sunset with their favorite drink is therapeutic. Others may choose to have a long bath using handmade products or start a hobby. During this time, no matter what you decide to do, make sure you disconnect from your gadgets to make the most of the experience.

Light some incense or handmade candles, get comfortable, and think about what activities you enjoy. Once you determine what brings you happiness and helps ease your stress, schedule that time to get away from the world for a while.

 

Meta Description: Everyone can benefit from focusing on themselves during “me time.” After all, you can’t attend to the needs of others when you haven’t addressed your own.

Clove Essential Oil

Once revered by ancient Chinese, ancient Persians, and Europeans, clove essential oil has, sadly, experienced a sharp decline in popularity. It is high time that we once again embrace this essential oil as it is packed with various benefits.

 

Thus, today, we will be exploring clove essential oil in details and we will be covering everything from the basics about the essential oil to its many benefits that we talked about above.

 

What is Clove Essential Oil Made Of?

 

Clove essential oil is derived from the clove tree — also known as Syzygium aromaticum. This tree is native to the Malaku Islands (or the Moluccas) in Indonesia but, today, you can find clove trees growing in other places, too.

 

An evergreen that grows up to between 32 and 39 feet, the clove tree thrives in a humid climate. A hardy plant, the clove tree has large green leaves and clustered crimson flowers. These flowers (or buds) initially have a pale hue, which gradually turns green, and then, finally, turn bright red when they are ready for harvest. Upon drying, the flowers transition to a deep red-brown.

 

How is Clove Essential oil Extracted?

 

Clove essential oil is produced by steam distilling the dried buds collected from the clove tree. In some cases, other parts of the tree — such as the stem and leaves — may also be used.

 

Certain clove essential oil is extracted via water distillation instead of steam distillation. This is to lower the percentage of eugenol (a naturally-occurring chemical found in cloves) in the essential oil. However, this is not that common and the preferred method of extraction remains steam distillation.

 

Benefits of Clove Essential Oil

 

1.      Boosts immune system

 

If you ever find yourself in need of a little restorative stimulant for your immune system, clove essential oil is it. Its power antioxidant properties help to fight free radicals that cause various ailments.

 

Besides that, the essential oil’s antibacterial and antiviral properties also come in handy in helping to boost the immune system to prevent and fight off cold and flu. It is really no wonder, then, why clove essential oil’s popularity surges drastically during cold and flu season.

 

2.      Treats and relieves respiratory problems

 

Eugenol, a chemical in clove essential oil, has excellent anti-inflammatory properties. This ensures that the oil works perfectly as a natural remedy for respiratory problems such as cough and sore throat. On top of that, the oil acts as a natural expectorant to clear the respiratory passage, too.

 

To help to alleviate respiratory afflictions with clove essential oil, the best way to go about it is via steam inhalation. Heat up some water to boiling point and then remove from heat. Next, pour the water into a large bowl and add three to four drops of the oil to the water. Cover your head and the bowl with a towel. Make sure that the steam is not so hot that it burns your face. Then, inhale the hot steam for approximately ten minutes.

 

Besides that, clove essential oil’s warming properties are sure to help to provide a little respite from the constant hacking cough, too. To relieve and cure pesky cough, make yourself a mixture of clove essential oil and honey.

 

3.      Promotes Good Digestive Health

 

Clove essential oil has long been used to ease stomach upset and other digestive problems including indigestion, diarrhea, bloating, and flatulence. For some quick relief, massage a few drops of the essential oil into your abdomen area. Alternatively, dilute a couple of drops of the oil in water and drink it.

 

Apart from that, research has also shown that clove essential oil has the ability to stimulate mucus production — an important gastro-protective factor. What this does is that it helps to protect the gastrointestinal tract as well as prevent the formation of ulcers and gastritis.

 

4.      Fights infection

 

As clove essential oil is packed with antiseptic properties, it can be used to prevent infection. It can treat things like cuts, wounds, scabs, fungal infections, athlete’s foot, bruises, and even insect bites. Because of the potency of the oil, it is advisable to dilute clove essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil.

 

Additionally, a study in the Oral Microbiology and Immunology journal found that two major phenolic components of the essential oil — carvacrol and eugenol — have an anticandidal effect on Candida albicans. Candida albicans is a type of yeast that causes fungal infections such as athlete’s foot and vaginal yeast infections.

 

5.      Fosters good dental health

 

If you are one to read labels, you will recognize clove as one of the ingredients in many kinds of toothpaste. This is largely because of its strong antibacterial properties and also the high concentration of eugenol in clove.

 

A 2012 study to investigate clove’s ability to inhibit dental erosion (or decalcification of enamel), found that clove essential oil not only significantly decrease decalcification but it actually even remineralized teeth.

 

So, if you are experiencing dental problems (such as toothaches, sore gums, or ulcers), let clove essential oil take care of it. For some near-instant relief, dab clove oil onto the sore area while you arrange a dental visit.

 

Alternatively, to use the essential oil for toothache, dilute a couple of drops of clove oil with an edible carrier oil like coconut oil. Saturate a clean cotton ball with the mixture then apply the cotton ball to the sore tooth. Reapply every two hours or so.

 

6.      Works as a natural insect repellent

 

Commonly found in many commercial insect repellents as an active ingredient, clove essential oil is extremely effective in warding off insects.

 

A few studies (like those from 2011, 2015, and 2016) have shown that clove essential oil is an extremely effective bug and insect repellent.

 

To keep insects at bay, mix a few drops of clove essential oil with a carrier oil — like coconut oil and jojoba oil. Then, massage the mixture into the skin. Besides that, a few drops of clove essential oil scattered all around the house will also be effective in keeping them away.

 

7.      Heals skin problems

 

Clove essential oil is excellent in moisturizing dry skin. To maximize this benefit, add one or two drops of the oil to your toner, serum, or moisturizer. Alternatively, you can also use clove oil as the last step to seal in the moisture. This will address skin concerns such as early signs of aging (including wrinkles and fine lines), dehydration, and flakiness.

 

Mixing Clove Essential Oil with Other Essential Oils

 

Clove essential oil goes especially well with spicy and earthy essentials oils —including ginger, cedarwood, cassia, and frankincense essential oils — because of their warm scent.

 

If you are looking for a floral essential oil to blend with clove oil, do consider lavender, rose, or ylang-ylang. Alternatively, for something invigorating, try blending clove essential oil with a citrusy essential oil like bergamot and orange.

Other Good-to-Know Information

 

Overall, clove essential oil is safe to be consumed or applied topically in the appropriate amount. However, as clove oil is extremely potent, it can cause skin irritation and allergy in some people. Hence, always start with a patch test before proceeding further.

 

Is Clove Essential Oil Right for You?

 

An underrated and under-appreciated essential oil, clove oil is an excellent addition to anyone’s collection.