In ancient times, linens used for mummification were soaked with embalming resin that utilized what we would today describe as essential oils. Centuries later, we now have over 90 different essential oils, each with their own health claim.
Essential oils can be inhaled or used topically for medical benefit, according to Good Fortune Soap and Spa owner Jennifer Strain. They are not regulated by the FDA, so not all essential oils are created equally, and some - those that include synthetic materials -may potentially be harmful, she says. However, as long as they are purely plant-based and therapeutic grade, like the products in Strain's store, oils can potentially help with everyday ailments, like menstrual cramps.
"Rubbing [oils] topically on areas that cramp can change [symptoms] without needing ibuprofen," says Strain. According to various scientific studies published by the Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology and the Indian Journal of Psychiatry, as oils are rubbed into the skin, plant chemicals are absorbed, leading to relief, and when inhaled, essential oils activate the limbic system, a part of the brain that plays a role in emotions, behaviors, sense of smell and long-term memory.
Oils potentially help with more than just cramps, though. From bacterial issues and anxiety, to insomnia and lethargy, there are several ailments that might be helped by essential oils, according to Strain.
Staff photo by Troy Stolt / Good Fortune Soap and Spa features an assortment of essential oils, which may treat a myriad of everyday ailments, from anxiety to cramps.Generally speaking, Strain recommends Good Fortune's Relax, a blend of lavender and frankincense. Those two oils are vast in their applications, she says, helping with everything from fungal issues to antibacterial needs. They can also help with "the mental health side of things, like sleep and anxiety," she explains, and are also safe on kids.
Meanwhile, peppermint and eucalyptus are great for "concussions[and] headaches," she says.
Local Keily Blair can attest to peppermint's effectiveness, as well as just the general effectiveness of essential oils; they have been a needed addition to her medical routine as she combats chronic illness.
"I suffer from cluster headaches," she explains, "and I've found peppermint essential oil works wonders for treating the pain until I can get to my migraine medication," adding that lavender and orange-scented oils have been helpful for anxiety and energy, respectively.
The oils are not without their caveats, though. While considered safe if inhaled or used topically, essential oils have been known, according to Healthline, to cause rashes, headaches, asthma attacks and allergic reactions in some.
Because pure essential oils are so strong, carrier oils - which are oils mixed with essential oils - can act as a barrier to prevent adverse reactions to the body or skin. For example, oils like jojoba, olive and fractionated coconut oil need to be used if you want to use an essential oil topically. Essential oils also have been known to interact with certain medications, and various scents are poisonous to pets, especially feline friends. Young children need to be careful to not ingest the oils, and topical application should be avoided for them - specific scents like peppermint, eucalyptus and wintergreen can pose respiratory risks, according to The Herbal Academy of New England.
Johns Hopkins Medicine recommends that if you want to try essential oils, it is best to use them via topical body oils, portable aromatherapy sticks or accessory wearables, which you apply an oil to and then sniff throughout the day. Scientific studies are inconclusive about the benefits of essential oils. Despite widespread claims, not enough research has been done yet to conclusively say that there is any benefit to them, although some initial studies were positive for their effects on stress and anxiety.
So, your mileage may vary with essential oils, but Blair and Strain both still recommend them as long as they're used safely. As Good Fortune's Strain admits, "doing your homework is never a bad idea" when it comes to researching where your oil is coming from, what's in it, and whether or not it will be beneficial. Always consult a doctor first.