If you’re looking to get into essential oils, but aren’t quite sure where to start, we’ve compiled an extensive list on some of the most popular and beneficial ones. Keep reading to see which oils can best meet your needs.
Types of essential oils
Lavender
This incredibly popular oil has all kinds of benefits. This subtly floral scent can help people to relax and sleep. Moreover, breathing it in has been found to help with alleviating headachesTrusted Source, while the use of the oil topically may help reduce the itching and swelling from bug bites.
Safety: There are a few known side effects. These include nausea, headaches, chills, and vomiting. It can also irritate the skin if you have an intolerance.
Roman chamomile
Featuring a combination of a light floral and herbal aroma, this oil has the potentialTrusted Source to put your mind at ease when diffused and inhaled through steam. While this oil is great for calming the mind, it’s equally as useful on the skin, and has been foundTrusted Source to treat conditions like inflammation and eczema.
Safety: Anyone allergic to daisies, marigolds, and ragweed should avoid using this oil altogether.
Rose
When the sweet, floral scent of rose oil is inhaled, it’s been shownTrusted Source to help reduce anxiety. Its antioxidant properties have also been foundTrusted Source to help treat acne and improve complexion for an overall younger look.
Safety: Skin irritation can occur when used topically, so make sure to use more of the carrier oil if you want to reap the skin care benefits of rose oil.
Hyssop
This earthy, herbal, and sweet-scented essential oil can be used on the skin to help to minimize scarringTrusted Source, decrease inflammation, and act as an overall healing agent.
Safety: Don’t use hyssop if you’re pregnant or have a history of seizures.
Ylang ylang
This flowery oil emits a spicy but sweet aroma, and has been suggested as an aid in relaxationTrusted Source, a self-esteem builderTrusted Source, and it even may act as a repellant toward certain insects. It’s frequently found in cosmetics and promises a laundry list of beauty benefits, including the treatment of combination skin and promotion of hair growth.
Myrrh
This sappy-smelling essential oil is said to treat skin issuesTrusted Source by relieving acne and cracked skin, and may even help treat athlete’s foot.
Safety: Myrrh should never be taken orally. If you’re using it topically, take note that it’s been found to cause dermatitis. More serious side effects include heart irregularities and lower blood pressure. It can also increase the risk of miscarriage if taken by people who are pregnant.
Vetiver
Thesmoky, sugary scent of vetiver is often used in tranquil aromatherapy to boost your overall mood and calm your nerves. As for its antioxidant benefits, it’s been foundTrusted Source to help promote skin health and heal scars.
Safety: Since it’s nonirritating and non-sensitizing it’s a great topical alternative for those who can’t handle other essential oils.
Frankincense
The aroma of this one may smell like the holiday season to you, but it also has all kinds of astringent, digestive, antiseptic, and disinfectant properties.
It may prevent oral issues like bad breath, toothaches, cavities, and mouth sores, and one studyTrusted Source even suggests it can help improve skin health.
Safety: Aside from potential skin sensitivity, users can rest easy knowing there aren’t any major side effects from using frankincense.
