Essential oils, opens new tab are front and center in the trend toward cleaner, healthier living. Relaxation, better sleep, improved skin complexion and stress relief are just a few reasons why essential oils are so popular.

People have been using essential oils in one form or another for thousands of years. In recent years, the growing number of people interested in natural remedies has spurred renewed interest.

Common Essential Oils

There are more than 90 essential oils, each with their own health benefits. Here are five of the most commonly used oils.

• Frankincense: Used for oral hygiene and to relieve stress, digestive issues, cough and inflammation
• Lavender: Reduces stress and anxiety, improves sleep, relieves headaches and improves the complexion
• Lemon: Soothes coughs, calms the stomach, relieves nausea, improves digestion and boosts the mood
• Peppermint: Relieves bug bites, sore muscles, headaches, nausea, digestive discomfort, fever and blocked sinuses
• Tea Tree: Used to treat earaches, skin conditions, fungal infections and insect bites

Essential Words of Wisdom

Today’s oils are more concentrated and highly potent than those used throughout history. In other words, a little bit goes a long way. A few drops is all it takes to get the job done. “Essential oils are safe for certain uses,” said Dr. Ancy, opens new tab, an internal medicine physician and Club W’s medical director. “They should not be used as the sole treatment for serious health conditions like cancer,” she said. “Essential oils should not replace medicine , if that’s what a patient needs. Always tell your doctor if you are using essential oils.”

Dig deeper into the word of essential oils with our Essential Oils 101, opens new tab class.