What are the benefits of essential oil diffusers? When you use an essential oil, you can either apply it topically if diluted with a carrier oil, add it to your bathwater, or include it in a tea. However, most essential oils are used in aromatherapy. This form of use requires the use of either a heated aromatherapy lamp or a diffuser.
When using the oils in a diffuser, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for use. In most instances, you do not need to dilute the oil with a carrier oil or lipid. Most diffusers only require the use of water for dilution. The diffuser enhances the aromatic impact of an oil so it can heal or provide specific health benefits.
25 Benefits Of Essential oil Diffusers
The following listed benefits can be experienced by using essential oil diffusers:
- Better Immune System Function
Many of the essential oils used for aromatherapy provide anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, antiseptic, antiviral, and anti-fungal properties. These properties boost the immune system and reduce the incidence of infection. Chemical substances in the oils, such as esters, terpenes, ethers, ketones, and phenolics fight foreign pathogens that threaten health.
Oils that can be added to a diffuser to boost the immune system include myrrh, oregano, eucalyptus, frankincense, ginger, and cinnamon. One of the most powerful oils in this respect is oregano. That is because the oil contains thymol and carvacrol – two antimicrobial compounds that inhibit bacterial growth.
- Better Digestion
Breathing in a diffusion of an essential oil leads to better digestion. Oils provide relief from indigestion, upset stomach, diarrhea, and similar gastrointestinal conditions. The inhalation of essential oils makes it easier to stimulate enzymes in the digestive tract used for the breakdown and absorption of essential nutrients, proteins, and fats.
One of the well-known oils that can be diffused for this purpose is ginger. This oil eases indigestion and prevents ulcers and constipation. The oil also reduces nausea and comforts users who experience stomach pain. Peppermint also promotes healthier digestion. One study showed that the oil provided quick relief of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms. Other oils that aid digestion include lemongrass, marjoram, black pepper, juniper berry, and marjoram.
- Increased Energy
One of the wonderful benefits of breathing certain oils is an increase in energy. Certain oils make it possible for you to get rid of that tired feeling permanently. Research reveals that peppermint oil increases a person’s focus and oxygen in the brain, triggering a refreshed and invigorated feeling physically and mentally. Other oils that increase energy when diffused include eucalyptus, rosemary, lemongrass, lemon, and grapefruit. Citrus oils are especially helpful in getting rid of lethargy.
- Enhanced Thinking
Because essential oils possess neuroprotective effects, they can assist in improving a person’s thinking. People who suffer from dementia or Alzheimer’s can benefit from diffusion. Research shows that many oils contain powerful antioxidants that inhibit free radicals, improve cognitive functioning, and reduce the incidence of inflammation. The calming and sedative effects of diffused oils such as lavender can also be used to alleviate mental agitation. Peppermint is often diffused for sustaining extending one’s attention span for a longer time.
- Balanced Hormones
Oils such as rose and geranium can influence hormonal production in women. Oils may be used in a diffuser to balance hormones such as progesterone, estrogen, and cortisol. Certain oils, such as sage and thyme, balance out both estrogen and progesterone and improve conditions such as PMS, infertility, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Essential oils that reduce cortisol levels assist in eliminating depression.
Women who are pregnant or menopausal will find that balancing their hormones will assist them in feeling calmer and in more control of their feelings. When essential oils such as rose or geranium are used in a diffuser, the resulting benefits are revealing. Not only do women feel calmer and more confident, they can also handle stress with less anxiety.
- Reduced Anxiety and Stress
One of the major advantages of using essential oils in a diffuser is their ability to reduce anxiety and stress. Some oils contain sedative properties that induce a relaxed and peaceful feeling. Some of the best essential oils to diffuse for this purpose include Roman chamomile, lavender, orange, rose, frankincense, vetiver, and ylang-ylang.
The above essential oils prove to be useful in aromatherapy for reducing depression in postpartum women as well. They also, according to research, benefit older people who suffer from chronic pain, depression, and anxiety. Scientists discovered that after a month of diffusion, study participants suffered less from stress, anxiety, and depression.
When oils are used to reduce anxiety and stress, they offset the resulting depression by elevating one’s mood. Certain essential oils not only have the ability to get rid of depression and sadness, they can also assist in brightening and elevating your feelings. Add a diffuser next to a place setting for a romantic dinner and you and your partner will feel more romantic. Two oils that can be used for this purpose include bergamot and lavender.
- Less Aches and Pains
By using essential oils in a diffuser, you can alleviate aches and pains. One research study showed that essential oils assisted in reducing neck pain. The best oils to use in a diffuser for getting rid of gnawing aches and pain include marjoram, thyme, eucalyptus, peppermint, lavender, chamomile, rosemary, ginger, turmeric, frankincense, and myrrh.
- Beautiful Skin and Hair
While you might think that a topical application of essential oils would make sense for improving the skin and hair, you can also use the oils in a steamy shower or in a diffuser for the same purpose. That is because essential oils fight the inflammation that leads to skin conditions such as dermatitis, lupus, or eczema. They can also be used in a diffuser to reduce problems with dry scalp or skin. The best essential oils to use for skin and hair health include frankincense, Roman chamomile, myrrh, rosemary, and clary sage.
- Reduced Toxicity
A diffusion of essential oils reduces toxicity by encouraging detoxification in the body as well as in a home’s environment. Toxins are present in the body as well as in the air people breathe. By using detoxifying essential oils in a diffusion, certain toxins are removed from the air or flushed out of the system. Both dangerous pollutants and pathogens are reduced when oils are diffused. The best oils to use for getting rid of toxins include lemongrass, eucalyptus, cinnamon, peppermint, lemon, orange, and grapefruit.
Including essential oils in a diffuser inside the home also eliminates bad smells and odors. A room that smells stale, smoky or musty can transition into a fresh-smelling room with a diffusion of essential oils. To eliminate both odors and toxins, use oils such as lemongrass, grapefruit, or bergamot for this purpose. Add a drop of each of the oils in a diffuser to experience the best results. You will breathe easier and breathe better air.
You can also create an antibacterial environment when you diffuse certain oils. To improve your family’s health and keep them from getting sick, use a diffusion of tea tree oil, lemon oil, oregano, or cinnamon essential oils. Scenting the air with these oils will keep you family from contracting airborne bacteria that can lead to serious health problems. Not only can you create an antibacterial environment by using these oils, you can also make it antiviral. Fewer colds are experienced when you use essential oils to combat toxins and keep the air clear.
- Fewer Headaches
Diffused essential oils also work to alleviate headache or migraine pain. Instead of masking the pain like over-the-counter drugs do, diffused oils improve blood flow and lessen stress. When the circulation improves and a person feels calmer, he or she will suffer from headaches less frequently.
Oils that are known for their headache-relieving properties include lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, and rosemary. Peppermint promotes blood flow and cools the body while eucalyptus is diffused to alleviate sinus pressure. Rosemary reduces inflammation and lavender calms the senses.
- A More Restful Night’s Sleep
Essential oils may contain sedative properties, which aid in sleeping. A diffusion of these oils makes them effective sleep aids. In 2014, one study showed that a diffusion of essential oils contributed to better sleep and fewer problems with sleeping disturbances. Of the oils studies, lavender seemed to have the most beneficial effect. No adverse responses were reported when a diffusion of this oil was used.
- Relief from Allergies
Essential oils can be inhaled to fight allergies. Some of the best oils to use for this purpose are lavender and frankincense essential oil. An inhalation of the oils relieves dry throat and itchy eyes. The oils, when regularly inhaled, inhibit pollens from affecting the allergy sufferer.
- Better Breathing
If you suffer from upper respiratory tract infections, you can use a diffusion of essential oils to clear your air passages. Two of the best oils to use for this purpose are eucalyptus and peppermint oil. You can diffuse two to three drops of the oils in a diffuser or add them to a carrier oil such as coconut oil and rub the mixture on your neck and chest. Placing these oils in a diffuser in the wintertime brings relief from asthma and colds.
- Improved Circulation
Anybody suffering from arteriosclerosis or heart problems will appreciate a diffusion of an essential oil to increase blood flow. This same diffusion works to prevent varicosities such as spider veins and varicose veins. One oil that is well regarded in this respect is grapefruit seed oil. You can add the oil to a steamy, warm bath or add it to a diffuser.
- Enhanced Concentration
Essential oils boost brain activity and also help people concentrate. Certain oils that improve concentration can be diffused for this purpose. Some of the best oils to use in this regard include bergamot, peppermint, and grapefruit seed oil. Inhaling the oils stimulates the areas of the brain that assist a person in focusing. Add one or two drops to a diffuser for the best results.
- Fever Relief
The use of essential oils in a diffuser can assist in reducing fever. Oils can be mixed with a carrier oil and sponged over the body or added to a diffuser. The best oils to use for reducing a fever include eucalyptus oil, peppermint oil, and lavender oil. Place the diffuser in the sickroom and allow it to work its magic. People often feel better the next day when oils are diffused.
- Reduced Food Cravings
Stress or anxiety can often lead to certain food cravings. These cravings can be eliminated by diffusing an essential oil. The best two oils to combine for this purpose are peppermint and cinnamon. Include a drop of each oil in a diffuser for the best results. When you feel that your hunger pangs are out of control, add the oils to a diffuser and breathe deeply. You will feel less hungry in no time at all.
You can also use certain oils to get rid of your desire to eat and assist with your weight loss plans. These oils mingle with the limbic system, or the emotional side of the brain. When we are emotional, we tend to eat more. Some of the best oils to use for this purpose include grapefruit, lavender, ylang-ylang, orange, and patchouli oil. All these oils are known for their appetite-curbing properties.
- Hangover Relief
Using a diffusion of essential oils can aid in hangover relief. You can either include one or two essential oils in a warm bath or add the oils to a diffuser. The best oils to use for this purpose include cedarwood, grapefruit, lemon, lavender, and rosemary. Either use a couple oils or add each of the oils to a diffuser for the best results.
- Morning Sickness Relief
Many women find relief from morning sickness by inhaling diffused essential oils. The main oils used for this purpose include wild orange, ginger, and lemon. You can either add the oils to a handkerchief or place them in a diffuser. If you are on the go, using them mixed with a carrier oil such as jojoba oil will bring fast relief.
- Motion Sickness Relief
Some people cannot handle driving in a car or feeling the motion of a boat. If this is you, you can find relief by diffusing essential oils and inhaling them. You can get rid of the problem by using oils such as peppermint oil, ginger, or lavender. All you need to do is add a drop of the oil to a diffuser and you will regain your equilibrium.
- A Safe Substitute for Incense or Candles
If you have children in your home or a beloved pet, burning incense or candles can be hazardous. If a child or pet knocks over a candle, for instance, a blaze can ensue and the whole house can burn down. That is why using a diffuser is safer. Hot wax from candles can burn the paws of pets or the hands of children. A diffuser can solve this dilemma, as it provides a nice scent and prevents these kinds of mishaps.
- Mosquito and Insect Control
No one likes mosquitoes being present in the air space outside their home. The use of repellents can be harmful, especially if you use a product such as DEET. This chemical is known to be toxic to children and animals. Research shows that repellents can be used in a diffuser in the form of essential oils. The best oils to mix for controlling mosquitos include clove oil and lemongrass. Studies confirm that these oils, when diffused, totally get rid of mosquitoes.
Besides mosquitoes, you can also use the oils to get rid of various bugs. Use a diffusion of the oils in your house to get rid of bugs that are disturbing your living space. The best insect repellants to use inside the house include geranium, cinnamon, peppermint, and cedarwood. If you want to enjoy the benefits of organic pest control, using these oils will help. You can also use the oils outside to combat insects such as gnats.
- Virus Elimination
Because essential oils have anti-viral qualities, they can be used to get rid of various viruses. One of these viruses, according to research, is the herpes simplex virus. Add oils such as eucalyptus oil or oregano oil to a diffuser and enjoy the anti-viral properties of these essential oils. Inhalation of the oils also helps clear air passages and prevent the development of bad bacteria.
- A More Convenient Approach to Health
When you use essential oils in your home and in a diffuser, you will find that staying healthy is easy. Essential oil diffusers work steadily and can be set in a place and forgotten. Family members will reap the rewards by feeling less tired, more invigorated, and more mentally alert. The use of a diffuser also adds a warm and inviting atmosphere to a home’s surroundings. Because they are convenient to use, diffusers make aromatherapy a well-recommended practice.
- Increased Purity
By using an essential oil diffuser, the air and surrounding areas become cleaner without the use of heavy cleaning products or chemical sprays. The living environment is pure and pristine, thereby making your home a healthier place to live and breathe. An essential oil such as basil can be diffused to reduce allergens in the air or clean the atmosphere of harmful microbes. Tea tree oil, when placed in a diffuser, can be used to prevent illnesses during the cold and flu season. Ravintsara oil or ho leaf oil, which is a rare essential oil, can be used to disinfect the air.
Conclusion
The 25 benefits of essential oil diffusers listed and explained above are just some of the many benefits you can get from diffusing essential oils in the air. We hope those are enough reasons to convince you to start investing in an essential oil diffuser if you’ve not already done so. Otherwise, you’re missing out on a lot of healthy benefits that come from diffusing essential oils into the surrounding air at home.
