It’s October, and around here, that usually means the start of cold and flu season. While we sometimes reach for the DayQuil, I like to begin by incorporating essential oils into our routine to combat the seasonal viruses first.
Choose High-Quality Essential Oils
There are many companies that sell essential oils, but not all are created equal. It’s important to do your research and ensure you’re buying high-quality essential oils. Just because an oil is cheap doesn’t mean it’s beneficial. I stick with three trusted companies: Young Living, doTERRA and Revive. While they might be a bit more expensive, I know they’ve been treated with care and are genuinely beneficial.
What Are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are the aromatic liquids found in plants, flowers, trees, roots, shrubs and seeds, extracted through steam distillation. These oils are highly concentrated and should be used properly.
Many essential oils have antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial properties. If you plan on using them, it’s important to understand their benefits and how to use them correctly. This is why I love Strong Animals Chicken Essentials for my flock—they’ve taken the guesswork out and formulated products for easy use!
Now, let’s focus on how essential oils can benefit us humans!
My Must-Have Essential Oils
In our household, I always have a few key oils on hand. The single oils we go through the fastest are peppermint, lemon and lavender. While I have a whole drawer full of oils, these three seem to be our most used.
Essential Oil Blends I Love
Let’s dive into essential oil blends—combinations of multiple essential oils packed into one powerful formula. Here are a few of my favorite blends that we rely on regularly for everything from muscle aches and cold and flu relief to even making natural cleaning products.
Thieves: Our Family Favorite
Our top blend is “Thieves” by Young Living. It’s a powerful blend of clove, lemon, cinnamon bark, eucalyptus radiata, and rosemary, known for immune support and cleansing properties. We use Thieves for everything—cleaning, illness, colds, preventative health and diffusing for aromatherapy benefits. It’s an absolute must-have in our home.
PanAway: Soothing and Cooling Relief
Another blend we love is "PanAway". This blend contains clove, helichrysum, peppermint and wintergreen, and it creates a cooling and soothing sensation when applied to tired muscles. We use it after physical activity and for headaches, and it works wonders!
Purification: Great for Smells and Bug Bites
Finally, I can’t forget about "Purification". This blend of citronella, lavandin, lemongrass, myrtle, rosemary and tea tree is perfect for neutralizing odors and cleansing your environment. While I’m not a huge fan of the smell, but it works like a charm! My favorite use? It relieves the itch and pain of bug bites almost immediately!
Essential Oils for Beginners
If you’re just starting out with essential oils, I recommend ordering a starter kit from a company you trust. These kits usually provide a great selection of oils and are a perfect way to start your essential oil journey!
Until next time,
–The Wing Lady