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We have all heard of bergamot, palmarosa and ylang ylang as these are essentials oils found in massage oils, candles and bath products in practically every gift store you visit. But have you actually stopped to think why they are used and what the benefits of these products actually are? Of course they smell great, otherwise we wouldn't purchase them but many of the common essential oils which have been distilled from plants are known to provide many proven therapeutic benefits and are often overlooked.

Essential oils are absorbed through the skin and depending on which plant the oil originated from will determine what effect it has on you. Having a knowledge of some of the basic benefits of these oils will certainly aid your shopping trips as you will be more aware of which oils will create a calming effect or which oils are more likely to stimulate or rejuvenate you. You can then use this knowledge to your advantage and buy the products most likely to suit your needs.

Bergamot

Bergamot has a refreshing and relaxing fragrance. Its delicate, sweet aroma can also be used to freshen a room and its scent is often found in beauty products and perfumes. If you are experiencing any anxiety or tension, bergamot is ideal to be used in the bath or as a massage oil and it can also be used as a treatment for loss of appetite. The antiseptic qualities of bergamot also lends itself to the treatment of acne and oily skin.

Ylang Ylang

Ylang ylang is an exotic and sensual oil with a deeply relaxing fragrance. It has a balancing and calming effect and is ideal for use in a massage oil or soothing bath salts. It is good for both oily and dry skin and has a rejuvenating effect on skin and hair. Ylang ylang is a good essential oil to be used if you are suffering from any anxiety, depression or stress.

Clary Sage

Clary Sage has an inspiring nutty aroma that is both balancing and relaxing. It has antiseptic properties that are most beneficial for dry skin but unlike the other three essential oils mentioned above, its aroma can seem quite intoxicating so it should be used in small amounts. Clary Sage can be used for a wide variety of complaints including mild depression, sleeplessness, minor aches and pains, asthma, labour pains, stress, gas and coughs.

Palmarosa

Palmarosa is refreshing and uplifting and has a sweet floral fragrance with a hint of rose. It helps to aid clear thought, does wonders for dry skin and is often found in soaps, perfumes and cosmetics. Palmarosa has many therapeutic properties and the essential oil can help to calm the mind and aid physical and nervous exhaustion. It is also thought to aid the digestive system and intestinal infection and is an ideal oil for acne, dermatitis, eczema and athlete's foot.

Jasmine

Jasmine is a warm, sensual oil that is ideal for post-natal recovery and skin care and is suitable for all types of skin. Jasmine oil facilitates delivery in childbirth by strengthening contractions so for this reason alone it should not be used when pregnant. Jasmine is a great soother for the nerves and produces a feeling of confidence and euphoria. It is also effective for coughs, laryngitis, muscle pain and sprains. Jasmine oil works great when added to a base cream for dry or greasy and sensitive skin, as well as assisting with stretch marks and scars.

Patchouli

Patchouli is an earthy woody oil which uplifts the spirit and clears the mind. It can be helpful towards treating fungal infections, water retention, cellulite and scar healing. It is also found to be helpful with stress related conditions and addictions as well as skin and scalp problems such as acne, eczema and dandruff. This oil works well in an oil burner to help relieve stress or in an oil base to help with skin or scalp conditions.

Once you have determined the oil best for your needs then you can shop for products such as bath products, massage oils and candles which feature the scent in the list of ingredients. Or you can opt to buy the pure essential oils and either use a traditional oil burner to disperse the scent or try one of the other suggested methods listed below.

Pillow Drops

Perfume your pillow with 2-3 drops of your oil of choice. Choose an oil that will help you relax or one that will help cure sleep disorders.

Scented Baths

Add 5-10 drops of your oil of choice to your running water. Soak in the bath for 10-15 minutes to reap the benefits.

Skin Oil

Dilute your oil of choice in a carrier oil ' 1% blend of oil for face and 3% blend of oil for body. This is a great way to nourish the skin and get the direct benefits of the oil into your body.

Room Sprays

Blend 10 drops of essential oil in seven tablespoons of water to make a room spray with your desired essential oils. Shake the mixture well before filling the spray bottle.

Determining the right scents can certainly create or break a mood. What you don't want is to create an intimate evening with relaxing oils and have your partner fall asleep on you so a bit of research into the subject will certainly give you the edge!