Using the Herbal Essential Oils

doTERRA essential oils come from all varieties of plants. From herbs to trees, we wanted to explore each category of oils and explain how to use that group of oils. Though there are similarities between individual oils within groups, each oil is also unique. For this post, we will be discussing how to use all of the oils that are derived from herbs. (Keep an eye out for future posts with information on using the Spice, Wood, Citrus, and Floral oils.)

First, please note that herbs are a separate category from spices. An herb (according to the Farmer’s Almanac) always comes from the leafy green part of a low-growing plant, while a spice comes from the root, stem, seed, fruit, flower, or bark of the plant. This leaves Basil, Cilantro, Lemongrass, Marjoram, Melissa, Oregano, Patchouli, Peppermint, Rosemary, Spearmint, and Thyme in the herb category.

We’ll start with the similarities: all 12 oils in this category are distilled using Steam distillation. Each of these oils can also be taken internally and therefore are great for using in cooking. In fact, we have many recipes using the herb oils on this blog if you go to the Recipes section.

What else are herb oils good for besides cooking? Plenty. When taken internally, Cilantro, Lemongrass, Oregano, Peppermint, Rosemary, and Spearmint are all shown to aid in digestion.* The Marjoram, Melissa, Oregano, and Thyme oils also support a healthy immune system.* Read on for information about the unique benefits and uses of each individual oil.

Basil

• Rub it into areas of your skin that need some soothing after a busy day.

• Promotes mental alertness and lessens anxious feelings when diffused.

• May help ease feminine discomfort during menstruation.*

Cilantro

• Acts as a powerful bodily cleanser and detoxifier when taken internally.*

• Helps eliminate unwanted odors when diffused or used in a room spray.

Lemongrass

• Can be combined with a carrier oil for and apply to skin to enhance a soothing massage.

• Apply diluted after a long run for a refreshing feeling.

Marjoram

• Valued for its calming properties and positive effect on the nervous system.*

• May promote a healthy cardiovascular system.*

Melissa

• Melissa can calm tension and nerves just by putting a few drops in your palms, cupping them over your nose, and inhaling deeply.

• Promotes feelings of relaxation when used topically or aromatically in a diffuser.

Oregano

• Used as a powerful cleansing and purifying agent when mixed with water in homemade cleaners.

• Supports healthy respiratory function when taken internally in a veggie capsule*

• Offers powerful antioxidants to respond to oxidation and free-radicals*

Patchouli

• Has a grounding or balancing effect on emotions when used aromatically or topically.

• Add one to two drops to your face during your facial routine to promote a smooth, glowing complexion.

• Add to lotion or apply directly to your skin to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, blemishes, and skin imperfections.

Peppermint

• Promotes healthy respiratory function and clear breathing when taken internally.*

• Put a few drops on cotton balls a place them around your home to repel bugs and spiders naturally.

Rosemary

• Use a few drops and give yourself a scalp-massage to promote full, healthy-looking hair.

• Helps reduce nervous tension and fatigue when added to water or taken in a veggie capsule.

Spearmint

• It can help to soothe occasional upset stomach.*

• When diffused, Spearmint promotes a sense of focus and uplifts mood.

• Use in homemade mouthwash to cleanse the mouth and promotes fresh breath.

Thyme

• Use it diluted with a carrier oil for a cleansing and purifying effect on your skin.

• It naturally repels insects, whether it is used topically or aromatically.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.