Essential oils have been growing in popularity. As media continues to expose health risks associated with chemical laden products, people are turning towards natural plant-based products. Essential oils can be applied to the skin, inhaled or ingested. (1)
When applying essential oils to the skin, it’s important to dilute the oil with a carrier oil. If you choose to diffuse or just inhale an essential oil, it goes through the nose and tiny nerves send a signal to the brain and begin working on the different systems that moderate the mind and body. (1) Ingesting essential oils can be dangerous, as these oils are extremely potent. It’s wise to do your research and work with an aromatherapist in order to assure safety.
One of the most expensive essential oils on the market is Melissa Essential Oil. Depending on where you buy this oil, it can run anywhere from $65 – $200 for 5 ml. Melissa oil is made from the plant, Melissa Officinalis. This plant is commonly known as lemon balm. The health benefits for this oil are vast. It has antidepressant, cordial, nerving, emmenagogue, sedative, antispasmodic, stomachic, antibacterial, carminative, diaphoretic, febrifuge, hypotensive, sudorific, and tonic substance properties. (2)
Melissa oil is made from Lemon Balm and has numerous health benefits making it well worth the cost!
This oil is often referred to as Sweet Oil or Common Oil. The aroma is sweet and inviting, providing calming effects. The oil is best known for its soothing, memory boosting and antidepressant properties. It is an effective mood lifter, dating back to the 15th century. (2)
Melissa Oil is said to have a cordial effect, meaning it invokes warm feelings and provides heat to the respiratory and cardiovascular system. It can help avoid frequent colds. (2)
If you struggle with anxiety, the nerving impact helps keep the nervous system healthy and functioning properly. The oil can even help with vertigo, nervousness, or convulsions. Due to its sedative qualities, this oil is also good for anxiety, trauma and shock. Melissa Oil’s calming effect on the emotions carries over to the body by helping to soothe and reduce chronic inflammation. (2)
Oil from Melissa Officinalis plant may help those who struggle with anxiety and depression
If you suffer from muscle spasms or other body spasms, Melissa oil is antispasmodic, meaning that it will give fast relief to any spasm within the body. (2)Many people who suffer from anxiety also deal with stomach issues. This oil will help the digestive process, heal ulcers in the stomach, as well as prevent infections. It is also known to be carminative, which means that it forces built up gases out of the intestines, reducing tension and relieving bloating. (2)
Antibacterial properties help with bacterial infections in the colon, intestines, urinary tract and kidneys. It is diaphoretic, meaning it promotes sweating and removes toxins from the body. The oil can help fight against microbial infections that cause fever. Melissa oil is a natural hypotensive, meaning it can lower your blood pressure. The tonic components of the oil can help boost immune health. (2)
For women who struggle with menstruation or menopausal symptoms, this oil can help with associated symptoms. (2)
One study utilized Melissa oil on the herpes simplex virus type 1 and 2. The study showed that the oil affected the virus before absorption, meaning that the oil is capable of exerting a direct antiviral effect on the virus. (3)
Study shows that oil treats herpes simplex virus 1 and 2 before absorption!
If you do not have this oil stocked in your cabinet, consider investing in some. With seasons in transition, this oil may help keep you stay physically and emotionally healthy through the shorter and colder days.
Sources for this article include:
(1) www.21drops.com
(2) www.organicfacts.net
(3) www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov