Essential oils are used in health and beauty communities all around the world. Many find these oils to have qualities that improve daily life. They have a variety of uses and are most commonly found in many self-care items such as lotions or oil diffusers.

“I mainly enjoy essential oils for the smells, although I feel like they could provide health benefits,” sophomore Lara Pester said.

Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil is mostly used as a cure for headaches, indigestion, nausea and is a means for preventing colds. Others may enjoy the smell and use a few drops when making soap or baked goods. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Peppermint oil has been used for health benefits for over a thousand years.

Lavender Oil

The main use of lavender oil is for aromatherapy. Many people go to aromatherapy to improve their mood, help them to become calm or to improve their health. Lavender is found in many sleep remedies and is used in many popular “healing” products such as Dr. Teal’s Soaking Solution, Bath & Body Works’ Aromatherapy Sleep Lotion and Lush’s Sleepy Face Mask according to Refinery29.com.

Lemon Oil

Lemon oil is another popular essential oil. Primarily used in skin and cleaning products, this oil has recently been found to contain anti-depressant qualities in its vapor, according to MDPI.com. The oil can be found in products such as Mrs. Meyers’ Cleaning Spray, J. R. Watkins’ Hand Cream and Yankee Candle Wax melts according to Shape.com.

“I have lavender, lemongrass, and peppermint oils,” sophomore Ivanna Febus said. “They each serve their own purpose. Overall, they help to calm my anxiety and clear my thoughts. They take the edge off my migraines and help put me in a calm state of mind.”