When the topic of conversation is about essential oils, it is often only the popular essential oils such as lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, tea tree, citrus and etc that are mentioned. But sometimes, you just feel like something different – be it for variety or a new experience. Let’s give the underrated and lesser known essential oils the spotlight this time. These are the essential oils are that are either rarely mentioned or not at all.
Carrot Seed
Not to be confused with carrot oil, carrot oil is carrier oil rich in vitamin A achieved by soaking carrots in vegetable oil for a few weeks, whereas carrot seed is an essential oil steam distilled from the dried seeds of a carrot. Carrot seed essential oil is a popular ingredient in skincare products as it possesses anti-oxidants, anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties. Its warm and mildly sweet scent can help to relieve stress, boost concentration and induce a faster onset of sleep.
Dill/Dill Weed
When it comes to aromatic herb essential oils, dill is often overshadowed by basil, marjoram and rosemary. It is either steam distilled from dried matured seeds (dill) or from the leaves and stem of the plant (dill weed). Dill essential oil is a natural carminative, providing relief for bloating, constipation and indigestion. Its fresh and pleasant scent can deodorize indoor environments and get rid of stale odors, repel bugs, reduce nausea, reduce negative feelings and help with insomnia. It is also believed to increase milk production for breastfeeding mothers.
Oregano
Just like dill, oregano is a considerably less popular aromatic herb essential oil, despite its copious benefits. Its herbaceous and spicy aroma is calming to the senses, allowing quicker and higher quality of sleep, and its expectorant properties combats mucus built-up in to aid in the recovery of colds and coughs. Oregano essential oil also has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that provide relief to eczema, psoriasis, insect bites, muscle ache and joint pain via topical application.
Helichrysum
A flowering plant from the sunflower family, its name originated from the Greek word “helisso” (sun) and “chrysos” (gold), symbolising the golden color of the flowers. Although it is a floral, it is not as popular as the other floral scents such as chamomile, geranium, jasmine and etc. Helichrysum essential oil contains anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties that are beneficial for those who are suffering or recovering from seasonal threats such as colds and coughs. Its exotic and spicy scent also creates a relaxing atmosphere to help in achieving emotional balance.
Fir
A genus of evergreen tree from the pine family, its name originated from Old Scandinavian “fyri”. There are over 40 variations of fir, the few types of fir that are available in the form of essential oils with varying scents and uses. Balsam fir has a fresh and musky scent with pine notes, and is soothing for emotional distress and minor physical pain. Douglas fir has a clean and balsamic scent with lemon undertones, its purifying properties makes it a fantastic air freshener and aids in clearing congestion. Fir needle/Siberian fir is said to smell very similar to a Christmas tree and can assist in the body’s natural detoxification process to remove toxins, alleviate pain and soreness of muscles, and combat fatigue. Silver fir/White fir has an earthy and woody scent, a staple to have during times when seasonal threats are rampant and when you’re experiencing low and negative moods.
Although they may not be as well known, you should not be discouraged. As you can see, although they aren’t as popular or common, they yield just as many beneficial properties and uses as the popular ones. Be open to exploring different essential oils and remember to practice with care and in moderation.