It was a rare visit to Macy’s about 5 years ago that I first stumbled upon essential oils. “A new product,” I thought, but essential oils have been in existence from ancient times, I learned from my research.
Essential oils were used to create paintings on the walls of caves and in the Bible, essential oils (not my name “essential oil” but rather an allusion to the source, as in geranium, eucalyptus, etc) were mentioned in the Old and New Testament. In the Middle Ages, the use of essential oils were considered to be decadent and inappropriate by the Catholic Church. Those caught using the oils were accused of witchcraft and sentenced to banishment or death.
In the 1600’s, knowledge of the use of essential oils was restored, as writings were distributed about its many purposes. By the 1800’s essential oils were prescribed by pharmacists for a variety of illnesses. In 1910, a fluke discovery was made that lavender oil heals burns after a chemist accidentally burned his hands in a lab explosion.
This discovery led to the antiseptic use of essential oils for war wound treatments. As time has continued to modern day, use of essential oils has become more widely known as they are published in books and readily available online within seconds of a Google search.
Popular modern books on essential oils include “Modern Essentials: A Contemporary Guide to the Therapeutic Use of Essential Oils,” which is a comprehensive guide for both beginners and experienced users, “The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy” for its blend of practical recipes and safety information, and “Emotions and Essential Oils,” which focuses on using oils for emotional and mental balance. Other well-regarded resources include “Essential Oils Every Day” for everyday rituals and “The Art of Aromatherapy” for its blend of theory and practice.Â
It is not safe to use essential oils as a direct treatment for brain damage, as they cannot repair or cure the underlying injury. The therapeutic use of essential oils for neurological issues is a complementary approach called aromatherapy, which may help manage some symptoms of brain damage, like stress, anxiety, and sleep problems.
Some research has explored the use of essential oils to help manage the secondary effects of brain injuries, including:
- Essential oils can stimulate the limbic system, the brain’s emotional center, which can help promote a sense of calm and reduce anxiety.
- Lavender is one of the most studied essential oils and is often used to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality, which can support overall brain health.
- Frankincense and chamomile are also cited for their anxiety-reducing effects.Â
- Rosemary and sage oils contain compounds that may support memory, and cognitive function in healthy individuals.
- Peppermint oil may help with alertness and concentration.
- Certain scents may help improve cognitive function, attention, and memory, which are often affected after a brain injury.
- Rosemary has been shown in some studies to increase alertness and boost memory.
- Peppermint may help reduce mental fatigue and improve concentration.
- Sage oil may enhance memory and attention, and could benefit individuals with speech difficulties (aphasia).
- Some essential oil components have shown neuroprotective effects in animal models by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress after a brain injury or stroke. For example:
- Frankincense is rich in compounds called sesquiterpenes, which can cross the blood-brain barrier and help bring oxygen to brain cells.
- Black cumin seed oil has been shown in animal studies to boost neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to “rewire” itself.
- Some essential oils are known to ward off properties and can trigger seizures, even in healthy individuals. Those with epilepsy or a history of seizures should avoid certain oils, including:
- Eucalyptus oil
- Camphor
- Sage
- Fennel
- Do not swallow essential oils. Ingestion can be toxic, dangerous, and even fatal in certain doses.
- When applying essential oils topically, they should always be diluted with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, to avoid skin irritation. Always perform a patch test first.
- The essential oil industry is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
- The quality and purity of oils can vary significantly between brands, making it difficult to know what you are truly getting. Look for reputable brands that provide information on the oil’s purity and extraction methods.
Essential oils might serve as a complementary approach for managing stress, improving sleep, or creating a calming environment, but they shouldn’t be viewed as a primary treatment. While some research suggests certain compounds in essential oils may have neuroprotective properties, the evidence is mostly from laboratory studies rather than clinical trials in humans.
Important limitations:
- Essential oils cannot repair structural brain damage.
- Quality and concentration vary significantly between products.
- Most studies are small-scale or conducted in laboratory settings.
- They’re not a substitute for evidence-based medical treatments.
Safety considerations:
- Some oils can interact with medications.
- Undiluted oils can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
- People with seizure disorders should be cautious with certain oils.
- Skin irritation or chemical burns could happen and result from applying undiluted or highly concentrated oils topically.
- Allergic reactions can occur, especially with prolonged, high-frequency use.
- Poisoning and organ damage, even in small amounts, are highly toxic if ingested and can cause liver or kidney damage.
- Overdosing can lead to seizures, drowsiness, or confusion, especially with toxic oils like eucalyptus, sage, or camphor.
- Consult a doctor, especially if you have a medical condition. This is critical if you are pregnant, nursing, have epilepsy, or have a brain injury.
- Never ingest essential oils unless specifically directed by a qualified medical professional. The risks of poisoning and severe adverse effects are significant.
- Perform a patch test when using a new oil topically to check for any allergic reaction or sensitivity.
- Always dilute essential oils for topical use, following general guidelines.
The 30-50-20 rule for essential oils is a blending guideline that suggests a ratio of 30% top notes, 50% middle notes, and 20% base notes to create a well-rounded and balanced scent. Top notes are light and evaporate quickly, middle notes form the heart of the blend, and base notes are heavy and long-lasting, adding depth and longevity to the fragrance.Â
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30% Top Notes:Â
These are the first scents noticed and provide freshness and lift but fade quickly.Â
- Examples: Citrus oils like lemon or grapefruit, or uplifting oils like peppermint.Â
- Examples: Citrus oils like lemon or grapefruit, or uplifting oils like peppermint.Â
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50% Middle Notes:Â
Also known as the “heart” of the fragrance, these oils provide balance and connect the top and base notes.Â
- Examples:Â Floral and herbal scents such as lavender, rosemary, or geranium.Â
- Examples:Â Floral and herbal scents such as lavender, rosemary, or geranium.Â
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20% Base Notes:Â
The heaviest and most long-lasting scents, these oils add depth, richness, and anchor the blend.Â
- Examples:Â Woody and grounding scents like sandalwood, patchouli, or cedarwood.Â
- Examples:Â Woody and grounding scents like sandalwood, patchouli, or cedarwood.Â
- Select oils from each note category (top, middle, base) that you want to combine.
- For a small batch, you could use a total of 10 drops and follow the 30-50-20 ratio: 3 drops of top note, 5 drops of middle note, and 2 drops of base note.
- Mix the drops in a clean bowl or glass bottle.
- Let the blend rest for about 24-48 hours to allow the scents to fully blend and harmonize.
- For skin application, dilute the blend with a carrier oil before use.
Have fun blending, but to repeat: The oils come in cute, adorable bottles, less than six inches in length, perfect for portability, but DO NOT EVER CONSUME! EVER!
Like Helen Keller, an American author, disability rights advocate, political activist, and lecturer once said, “Smell is a potent wizard that transports you across thousands of miles and all the years you have lived.”
Dear Joyce,
Thanks for sharing your knowledge, research, wisdom and cautious caring. Kate
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