BY SANDRA GUY
Thinking of buying essential oils as a holiday gift?
The options may seem mind-boggling and the purported benefits lacking in scientific data, but essential oils’ popularity and centuries-old efficacy are unquestionable.
That’s because essential oils may soothe minor ailments, whether it’s putting one or two drops of eucalyptus oil into a hot bath to help relieve nasal congestion; massaging peppermint oil on your temple to relieve a mild headache, or relaxing while breathing in scents from a lavender oil diffuser.
While more scientific research would be helpful, the oils – a mixture of volatile compounds extracted from the seeds, roots, leaves or blossoms of plants – have been used in over-the-counter cough remedies and pain relievers for decades, said Stefan Gafner, a pharmacist with a doctorate in natural product chemistry and the chief science officer at the American Botanical Council. The council is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing accurate, reliable and responsible information about herbs and medicinal plants.
Just look at the ingredient labels for well-known products such as Vicks VapoRub, an ointment used as a cough suppressant, and Listerine, the mouthwash comprising menthol, thymol, eucalyptol and methyl salicylate – ingredients found in the essential oils of mint, thyme, eucalyptus and wintergreen.
The scientific research conducted so far shows hopeful signs for remedies such as treating sinus inflammation with herbal medicines and inhaling lavender and rose oil aromatherapy to relax patients undergoing surgery using local anesthesia.
Alex Agudo, co-owner with Leo Gonzalez of L+A Healing Studio in Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood, says he recommends starting with “the classics” – lemon, lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint and tea tree.
“Do your own research,” said Agudo, whose studio offers classes in learning about and using essential oils based on one’s personal needs and reactions.
Gafner and other experts also caution that some essential oils, such as those extracted from citrus, may lead to allergies in people sensitive to such oils.
While many common spices contain essential oils, it’s unsafe to ingest pure essential oils, and those oils should never be used near an open flame.
Women who are pregnant should be cautious of using them, too.
On the other hand, a recent scientific study showed that babies who had trouble breastfeeding were able to suck after they smelled vanilla.
Those kinds of results underlie researchers’ continued studies of essential oils’ properties. That includes the University of Chicago, where researchers at the Tang Center are applying advanced science to uncover the advantages and possible dangers of herbal therapies.
Meanwhile, holiday shoppers are grabbing up natural remedies in increasing numbers. Essential oils’ growth in the United States is expected to expand at a 9 percent rate, compounded annually over the next five years, research shows.
Much like the “foodie” movement, essential oils’ popularity may represent a backlash against the abuse and over-use of prescription drugs such as opioids and antibiotics, and the deadly effects of abuse of OTC substances such as laxatives. It’s also a step back from needing immediate relief by popping a pill.
“Some consumers have become disillusioned with regular therapies,” Gafner said. “They want to have something they perceive as less harmful and more gentle to the body.”
Sandra Guy 