Here, we're big fans of essential oils and have been using them for years into both our skincare and daily routines. It's not for nothing that these concentrated, plant-based oils have been utilized for ages due to their fragrant and healing qualities. Many people have used essential oils to help reduce anxiety, improve relaxation, act as a natural insect repellent, treat the occasional breakout, and promote healthy hair and scalp—even though the scientific evidence for some of the claims that these oils can effectively treat specific conditions is still up for debate.
Similar to how breathing techniques and meditation have been shown to significantly reduce stress, heart rate, and blood pressure in numerous individuals, essential oils (EO) can also have a major impact on mental calmness, which in turn benefits overall health and wellness.
We recently had the opportunity to speak with African Agency for Arid Resources (AGAR) Ltd., a natural resource management firm situated in Kenya. They introduced a line of ten pure, organic, and therapeutic-grade oils called Essenza by AGAR as part of their exciting new releases. Best part? Their oils come from all across the continent; among them are five additional Kenyan-made oils including Frankincense and Sweet Myrrh, which are obtained from our own dry plains!
Before utilizing any essential oils, however, take notice that their component molecules are bioactive and should be used with care despite their natural nature. Always mix essential oils topically with a base oil, and take into consideration others around you, particularly expectant mothers, small children, and pets, if you want to diffuse essential oils throughout your space. If you have a significant health problem or are on medication, always see a doctor.
If, like us, you are eager to get a bottle or two, Elixir Health Shop, Village Market, and Fava Herb, Mini Mall are the places to find them. If you're an essential oil enthusiast, small distributor, spa, healer, or just want to purchase directly from AGAR, you may do so with an order of ten bottles or more. Alternatively, Essenza has recently started an online shop on Jumia.
1. FRANCKINCENSE
Frankincense is an excellent essential oil to have on hand, having been one of the most popular oils throughout the years. This earthy, spicy oil has long been used for mental clarity and mood enhancement. Additionally, it has been shown in recent research to benefit rats suffering from Alzheimer's disease. In case you're seeking for an oil that revitalizes,
How to Apply It Frankincense essential oil: Using this oil in a diffuser is the best way to get the most out of it. As an alternative, drop a handful into the hot water next to you and watch as the aroma fills the space.
2. LEMONGRASS
This oil is great if you like the spicy, invigorating smell of lemongrass. This tropical plant has been used as an EO for its relaxing properties and to alleviate dyspepsia and decrease inflammation. Extra credit? It's also said to have anti-mosquito properties. Goodbye, mosquitoes!
How to use lemongrass essential oil: This oil works well as a house spray when combined with other oils. You may always put some oil in your diffuser or put a few drops in some boiling water and take a sniff. Combine it with your favorite carrier oil for an amazing massage or apply it directly to your skin to ward against mosquitoes.
3. LAVENDER
This is undoubtedly one of the most well-liked oils on the market and a fantastic option for beginners. Fair enough, however it's better to stick with reputable brands like Essenza since there are a lot of imitations and watered-down copies available. It is recommended to take it at night for the most relaxation just before bed because of its well-known relaxing effects. Additionally, because of its antiseptic qualities, this oil is often included in a variety of skincare products.
How to use lavender essential oil: The best way to treat yourself before bed is to add a few drops to your routine, in addition to using a diffuser. Additionally, you may combine it with a carrier oil (such as jojoba, olive, or grapeseed) and use it topically to your skin or hair care regimen.
4. DARLING MYRRH
Sweet myrrh has been utilized for millennia in perfumery, antiseptic applications, and many symbolic rites. This EO, sometimes called Opoponax, is from the same plant family as frankincense and has a strong aroma.
How to use sweet myrrh essential oil: A few drops in your diffuser can go a long way, and placing a few drops of this oil on a heated cloth will help relieve congestion in the respiratory system.
5. Rosemary
Though this plant is almost certainly known to you and you have undoubtedly used it in many of your culinary recipes, the calming, fragrant properties of its essential oil were highly valued in Greek and Egyptian culture. It could also aid in nourishing the scalp and promoting hair development.
Uses for rosemary essential oil: It may be inhaled or used topically, much like other oils. As an additional option, you may combine a few drops with coconut or olive oil for your pre-shampoo oil therapy.
6. Tea Tree
It's likely that you've seen this essential oil (EO) on a lot of skincare and hair care products due of its potent antibacterial and cleaning qualities. Due to its ability to dry out and eliminate germs from the afflicted region, it is helpful for combating acne. It may also aid in reducing dandruff and easing skin irritation following shaving.
How to use tea tree essential oil: Before applying it to your hair, dilute it with a carrier oil since it has the potential to be quite intense. Apply a few drops on a cotton bud, then gently massage the breakout area.
7. Germany
If you need to unwind, this sweet-smelling essential oil is well-known for its relaxing effects when used in aromatherapy. Unexpectedly, it works well as an insect deterrent as well!
How to use geranium essential oil: A few drops in your bath will give you a short spa treatment and would be a wonderful aroma for your bath routine. As always, additional excellent methods to utilize this oil aromatically include with a diffuser or hot water steam. Additionally, you may add a few drops to your moisturizer or mix it with carrier oils to give your skin a lovely smell.
8. TEAPERMINT
If you need a little pick-me-up, this invigorating essential oil is the best. If you need anything to relieve muscular tension before a massage, this is an excellent option. It has also been reported to alleviate nausea, and when applied topically to the scalp, its menthol content creates a delightfully cooling sensation.
How to use peppermint essential oil: A with other essential oils, due to its intensity, it is crucial to dilute it with a carrier oil before applying it topically. To fully benefit from its energetic qualities, add a few drops to your diffuser to stimulate your senses.
9. Yelang Yelang
This would be a wonderful addition to your collection if you're searching for a sweet-scented oil to add to your pampering evening bath. This essential oil is well-known for its subtle floral undertones and possesses aphrodisiac properties. Fun fact: On their wedding night, couples in Indonesia often scatter ylang ylang flowers around their bed!
How to use Ylang essential oil: You may choose to put a few drops in an electric diffuser or an essential oil burner and let the lovely aroma fill the space. Alternatively, combine a few drops with coconut oil and massage the mixture into the skin!
10 . EUCALYPTUS
Not to mention, this exquisitely perfumed oil has a long history of use in medicine and fragrance. The Australian native tree has the potential to be a very effective tool for chest cleaning. Its antimicrobial properties have undoubtedly led to its promotion as a toothpaste component.
How to use eucalyptus essential oil: Combine a few drops with a carrier oil and apply to your chest if you have a cold. Try heating it with a cloth over your head and adding it to hot water if you have a congested chest.