Peppermint, eucalyptus, and lavender essential oils, absolute must-haves!

Tension headaches, digestive headaches, or idiopathic headaches (that is, without any underlying disease) can often be alleviated by using one or a combination of these essential oils.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

Peppermint Essential Oil

I always have my peppermint essential oil at home and in my handbag.

Peppermint, due to its high menthol content, is known for reducing pain. It is important to know that for any ingestion or application, peppermint essential oil should be mixed/diluted in a carrier oil, such as sweet almond oil. Applied directly to the skin, it can cause irritation, an overly cooling sensation, or a strong odor. The same applies when ingested; it should be diluted, as it creates a nearly cold-burning sensation in the mouth and esophagus.

• Applied to the temples and the base of the neck, it soothes headaches and sometimes even migraines
• Applied to a tense muscle, it acts like a gel and provides a cooling sensation in addition to relaxing the muscles.
• Diluted in the vinaigrette, it aids digestion while offering a delicious mint flavor. When ingested, it also particularly helps those dealing with digestive issues, irritable bowel syndrome, or liver disorders. As an infusion, it is also effective in soothing the digestive system.
• When ingested, it also helps fight bad breath.
• When diluted in a cream, it soothes skin itching and reduces redness.
• When diffused or diluted in water, it soothes nausea.⠀
• When diffused or applied topically to the forehead or sinuses, it helps clear the airways and relieve nasal congestion.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

The essential oil of eucalyptus

I mainly use eucalyptus in my diffuser when I work to help me focus and relax. Eucalyptus is commonly used to treat respiratory issues as well as muscle or joint pain. However, it has many other uses, thanks to the presence of eucalyptol in the leaves of these trees.

• Mix 1-2 drops of lemon eucalyptus essential oil (E. citriodora), diluted in a little vegetable oil. Rub the forehead and temples with the mixture to help reduce headaches. Repeat every hour until the headache disappears. Avoid contact with the eyes.
• In the shower or by evaporation, during nasal or sinus congestion, favor the mentholated eucalyptus essential oil (E. dives or E. radiata). Pour 4 to 6 drops of essential oil into a bowl of boiling water and breathe in the vapors, with your head covered by a towel.
• Apply the same blend of menthol eucalyptus essential oil and vegetable oil to the chest in case of asthma.
• When applied to the skin, once again mixed with vegetable oil, it is known to repel insects. (in the form of eucalyptus radiata or lemon essential oil)
• Diluted in vinegar and water for household products, as it has antibacterial properties.⠀

Lavender Essential Oil

True lavender essential oil shares many of the benefits of peppermint and eucalyptus. It offers excellent calming properties for the nervous system and stress, which is what it is best known for.

• The same principle applies as with other essential oils: mix 1 to 2 drops with a carrier oil, then apply to the forehead and temples, gently massaging to relieve a headache or migraine. It can also be effective through evaporation, by placing it in a bowl of boiling water with a towel over your head.
• When diffused or sprayed, it promotes relaxation and calmness. It helps the body to unwind, soothes the nerves, and aids in falling asleep.
• When diluted in creams, it soothes dermatitis (eczema, itching, and redness). Its healing properties also make it a helpful ally for burns and sunburns.
• It has good anti-lice properties. A few drops applied behind the ears repel lice and protect your children's heads.
• Added to meals, it reduces nausea.
• Lavender essential oil is known for its pain-relieving properties, thanks to its key active ingredients, which have proven analgesic effects. It is recommended for cramps, spasms, and muscle pain. For example, when diluted in a carrier oil and applied to the abdomen, it soothes menstrual cramps.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
  It is important to always buy organic essential oils and to find out if they need to be diluted before use.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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  Essential oils are a nice addition to your nutraceutical protocols, your medicine cabinet, and your dietary changes. It's best to combine them with a healthy lifestyle for better results.

Article written by Émilie Riendeau

Naturopath, B.Sc, ND, K.In

Émilie Riendeau can be reached on her social media: Instagram or by email at: info@emilieriendeau.com