Essential oils have long been touted as an alternative must-have for health – but many have continued to snub them in favour of more traditional pharmaceutical medications. However, in the current climate, and in light of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, many of us are placing more of an emphasis on prioritising our health than ever before, including putting preventative measures in place and looking to treat minor ailments at home.
The demand for high-end natural and organic treatments is on the rise, with the general population now more aware than ever before of the ingredients they are putting into their bodies. There’s also an increasing trend amongst high-net-worth individuals who are investing in naturopaths and luxury products and supplements to help them to heal as naturally as possible from minor ailments or help ease symptoms of conditions such as chronic pain and IBS to anxiety and depression.
The luxury industry has responded as a result, and there are now more high-end luxury oils for health available on the market than ever before. Many essential oils are packed with antimicrobial properties and are said to help boost the immune system, while others are filled with powerful anti-oxidants which can help to neutralise free radicals in the body – which are caused by environmental factors such as exposure to pollution and toxic chemicals – to help the body respond more effectively to oxidative stress.
There are a variety of different types of oils than have been gaining popularity in recent years – despite the fact that, in most cases, more thorough research is required to determine just how effective they are in treating a catalogue of conditions with which they have been associated.
Cannabis-infused oils
In particular, excitement has been building around cannabis infused oils in recent years, and with good reason. Their popularity among users of all ages, lifestyles, and states of health have meant that it is difficult not to feel a growing curiosity around these products – particularly in light of the fact that their primary ingredient has, until recently, suffered through many years of marginalisation and legal censure.
The context behind cannabis’ emergence into mainstream health and wellness culture does, however, mean that many people feel they are still in the dark about the true benefits of these products. There exists an element of cognitive dissonance, trying to distinguish the longstanding stigma from the more recent praise being given to this drug.
Cannabis infused oils are, in essence, extracts derived from the cannabis plant. Rather than a dried bud or flower, these oils offer a more concentrated solution – though the concentration of certain compounds will vary depending on the type of oil created.
The two main cannabis infused oils are known as Rick Simpson Oil, or RSO, and CBD, or cannabidiol, oil. RSO is an incredibly concentrated extraction that, unlike CBD Oil, also preserves the THC content of the plant – leading to a pretty high percentage in some of the purest oils. Like a crude oil, it is distinctively thick and dark, and may be taken in food, placed under the tongue, or applied directly onto the skin.
There exists a long list detailing the potential benefits of Rick Simpson oil, and it is said to help ease the symptoms associated with a range of conditions, including chronic pain. While such benefits have yet to be verified via rigorous and comprehensive scientific research, the future looks bright for this ingredient, and its potential applications within a wide range of medical and everyday settings.
CBD stands for cannabidiol, which is an active ingredient that is found within the marijuana plant, and entirely distinct from THC, which is what causes the psychoactive effects. As such, CBD oil offers users the opportunity to take advantage of some of the potential health benefits cannabis has to offer, without the ‘high’ typically attributed to using this plant.
It is thought that cannabidiol may have a unique way of interacting with the body and, as such, may offer a number of health benefits that improve both physical and emotional wellbeing. From pain relief to helping with treating insomnia, depression and anxiety, many people are already offering their anecdotal evidence in support of these claims.
CBD oil can be taken in food or drink, under the tongue, or within skincare treatments and other topical solutions. It is an incredibly versatile alternative to using cannabis in more traditional ways, particularly in areas where marijuana remains a controlled substance.
Traditional oils
Although tea tree oil isn’t one of the best selling oils on the market, there’s no denying that it packs a potent punch. It has long been the preferred choice for a variety of therapeutic uses, particularly where the skin is concerned, and many leading dermatologists recommend implementing it into your daily skincare routine to alleviate conditions such as acne.
The oils has been shown to be effective in drying out the skin and skin and reducing oiliness – a build up of which is associated with acne and can continue to perpetuate the condition if left unchecked.
Lavender oil, meanwhile, is associated with enhanced rest and relaxation, and is widely used across the globe to aid in getting a good night’s sleep. Now a common ingredient in many pillow sprays and night-time tinctures and creams, it has won itself a legion of loyal fans who swear by it for helping them to drift off – and its relaxing properties are also thought to be effective in treating headaches and migraines, which is a relief for many regular sufferers who don’t want to rely on pharmaceutical painkillers.
Alongside the likes of lemon balm, bergamot, clary sage and chamomile, it is also a common ingredient in natural treatments for anxiety, and can help to soothe the mind when life becomes overwhelming.
It is important to bear in mind, however, that essential oils are not FDA-regulated, so when purchasing two different brands, you may also be getting two entirely different products. All essential oils are not created equal, with some more concentrated than others and with higher-potency as a result – so it’s vital to do your research before you buy.
The response of the luxury market to this burgeoning trend, however, has made this somewhat easier – offering more expensive products where quality is guaranteed and you can be sure that you are getting your hands on the very best oils that money can buy.
The bottom line
Adding some luxury natural oils to your daily routine, it seems, could come with some welcome benefits to your health – but it is essential to do your research and consult with a doctor about any serious health issues to ensure that you are following the best course of treatment. While many minor ailments can be effectively treated with an arsenal of natural and organic lotions and potions at home, relying on them solely for bigger problems could prove dangerous.
Luxury oils are designed to be complementary medicine, so bear this in mind. A trained medical professional will advise you on how best to combine the two where necessary for the best and most effective results.
