Also known as aetherolea, volatile oils, and ethereal oils, essential oils are hydrophobic liquids with volatile chemical compounds that are obtained from plants. There are various ways to extract these oils from plants, such as cold pressing, and distillation.
Due to the chemicals contained in these oils, swallowing them is not advisable. Some people choose to apply the oils on their skin to absorb the chemicals faster.
A more widely used method is aromatherapy. Inhaling the pleasant aromas from them causes you to relax and gets rid of the throbbing and dull ache of your head. Although getting sufficient sleep and taking lots of water gets rid of the headache, sometimes it may not be enough.
Here are some ethereal oils that you should use whenever you experience a migraine:
1. Lavender Oil
It is distilled from the plant Lavandula angustifolia and has an impressive reputation when it comes to treating diseases, infections, and conditions. Lavender oil also offers fast relief from menstrual cramps, allergies, insomnia, fungal infections, and migraine, among others.
To cure migraine, add a drop of the oil to a teaspoon of unscented face cream, apply it on your face, and massage the forehead, jaw, and temples. You could also inhale the scent straight from the bottle.
2. Peppermint Oil
Sweet-smelling peppermint is a cross between watermint and spearmint plants. The oil is extracted from peppermint leaves (Mentha x piperita) and has a refreshingly fresh and sharp taste and smell. Its main ingredients are menthone and menthol.
Apply it on the forehead to treat that head throb. Alternatively, you can apply some on your temples after diluting it with a carrier oil and massage gently.
3. Eucalyptus
The eucalyptus tree is originally from Australia. It is also grown in many other countries around the world, and its oval-shaped leaves are used to make eucalyptus oil, which mainly cures headaches that are brought about by sinus complications.
For effective relief from migraine, add a few drops of it into your bath water and inhale it as you dip.
4. Rosemary Oil
Rosemary, or Rosmarinus officinalis, is an evergreen plant with a soothing woody aroma. The oil from this plant is used in cooking and medicine. Aside from relief from headaches, it also improves circulation, reduces stress, and lessens pain.
You can apply it on your skin and take in the relaxing smell or massage your forehead and temples with it after diluting it with a carrier oil.
5. Chamomile Oil
It is created from the flowers of the chamomile plant. There are two main types of chamomile plants: German chamomile and Roman chamomile. Chamomile oil is ideal for migraines as it soothes muscles and calms the body.
Dilute the chamomile oil with a carrier oil and add a couple of drops to your bath. Afterward, inhale its fresh scent and experience ultimate relaxation.
Most volatile oils in the market are diluted with synthetic oils and fragrances and therefore aren’t original. At Plant Guru, we offer you quality essential oils at reasonable prices.