Tag Archives: Essential Oil

How to Use Essential Oils: Dill

Dill essential oil, distilled from the seeds or the whole herb of the Anethum graveolens plant, carries a fresh, sweet, and herbaceous aroma. Native to the Mediterranean and western Asia, dill has been used for thousands of years in both cooking and traditional wellness practices. Its essential oil is often valued for digestive support, helping to ease occasional discomfort and promote a sense of balance after meals. Diffused, its gentle aroma provides a clean, uplifting atmosphere that encourages relaxation and calm.

Beyond its culinary and digestive benefits, dill essential oil has been used to support feelings of focus and clarity. Blended with citrus oils like lemon or lime, it takes on a brighter, more refreshing quality, while pairing it with floral oils like lavender can create a soothing, comforting diffuser blend. In topical blends, dill is sometimes used in massage oils or diluted in carrier oils to promote a sense of ease and overall wellness. Its fresh, herbal fragrance makes it versatile in both household and personal care routines.

Did You Know? Dill has been prized since ancient times—records show it was used by the Egyptians around 1500 B.C. as both a medicinal herb and a food seasoning. In ancient Greece and Rome, dill was considered a symbol of wealth and was often used to crown heroes and decorate banquet tables. Even the word dill comes from the Old Norse “dylla,” meaning “to soothe.” Old Norse was the language of the Vikings, spoken from the 8th to the 14th century, and is the ancestor of modern Scandinavian languages as well as the source of many words in English.

Whispers of Cardamom

From tropic soil where spices grow,
Cardamom seeds in warm winds flow.
Distilled with care, their oils release,
A fragrant gift of calm and peace.

Called “Queen of Spices” long ago,
From India’s hills to Guatemala’s glow.
A sweet and spicy breath it brings,
A treasure prized by queens and kings.

It soothes the stomach, lightens care,
A gentle aid for troubles there.
In kitchens, hearts, and homes it stays,
A friend through nights and brighter days.

Diffused, its scent uplifts the mind,
Clarity and focus you will find.
For study hours or quiet prayer,
Its grounding touch is always there.

When seasons shift and breath feels tight,
Cardamom lends a steady light.
Its vapors clear, the chest feels free,
A comfort shared through history.

Egypt’s halls and India’s tea,
Whispers of cardamom still roam free.
A spice, a song, a timeless balm,
Forever fragrant, warm, and calm.

How to Use Essential Oils: Cumin

Cumin essential oil, distilled from the seeds of the Cuminum cyminum plant, carries a warm, spicy, and slightly earthy aroma that has been valued for thousands of years. Native to the Mediterranean and parts of the Middle East, cumin has been used both as a culinary spice and a traditional remedy. In essential oil form, it is often appreciated for its digestive support and its ability to bring depth and richness to blends. Diffused in small amounts, cumin’s strong scent can create a grounding and comforting atmosphere.

Beyond its culinary heritage, cumin essential oil is sometimes used to help promote relaxation after heavy meals or to ease occasional feelings of tension. When blended with citrus oils such as orange or lemon, it takes on a brighter, more refreshing quality, balancing its deep, spicy base. Properly diluted, cumin oil may also be added to massage blends to help comfort muscles and joints, though its potency means it is used sparingly. Its distinct aroma makes it a bold addition to both diffuser recipes and wellness routines.

Did You Know? Cumin seeds have been discovered in ancient Egyptian pyramids, showing they were treasured as far back as 2000 B.C. The seeds were used in cooking, medicine, and even as part of the mummification process. Cumin is also mentioned in the Bible—in Isaiah 28:25–27, it is noted as one of the spices carefully sown and harvested by farmers. Today, India produces the majority of the world’s cumin, highlighting its continued importance in both global cuisine and cultural traditions.

How to Use Essential Oils: Coriander

Coriander essential oil, distilled from the seeds of the Coriandrum sativum plant, has a warm, spicy, and slightly sweet aroma that differs from the fresher scent of cilantro, which comes from the leaves of the same plant. Used for centuries in both cooking and traditional wellness practices, coriander seed oil is prized for its ability to support digestion and ease occasional discomfort. Diffused, its soft and inviting fragrance can create a calming and centered atmosphere, making it a popular choice in blends that relax both the body and mind.

Beyond its aromatic qualities, coriander essential oil is often used to promote balance and tranquility. It pairs beautifully with citrus oils such as bergamot or spice oils like cardamom, creating uplifting diffuser combinations. When properly diluted, it can also be added to massage blends to comfort tired muscles and joints. With its warm yet gentle character, coriander seed oil bridges the worlds of spice and wellness, offering a versatile option for both home and self-care.

Did You Know? Coriander seeds have been discovered in ancient Egyptian tombs, showing their value as far back as 1500 B.C. The seeds were not only used in food and medicine but also in rituals and offerings. Coriander is even mentioned in the Bible—in Exodus 16:31, manna is described as being “like coriander seed.” More recently, coriander has been grown aboard the International Space Station as part of plant studies, making it one of the few herbs to journey beyond Earth.

Top Essential Oil Leader: Patricia Davis

Patricia Davis: A Pioneer in Aromatherapy Education and Advocacy

Patricia Davis is a well-respected figure in the field of education and research, particularly in aromatherapy. She is best known for her book, Aromatherapy: An A-Z, which has become a widely used reference among practitioners. With years of experience in the study and application of essential oils, Davis played a key role in shaping modern aromatherapy practices. Her work focused not only on the benefits of essential oils but also on their safe and effective use, ensuring that both professionals and the general public could use them responsibly.

Davis’s interest in aromatherapy was driven by a passion for natural health and well-being. Throughout her career, she sought to bridge the gap between traditional herbal medicine and modern scientific research. By compiling detailed information on a wide range of essential oils, their properties, and their applications, she provided a reliable resource for practitioners, students, and enthusiasts. Her book remains one of the most trusted guides in the field, helping people make informed choices about essential oils.

One of Davis’s significant contributions was her emphasis on safety. At a time when essential oils were gaining popularity, misinformation was widespread, and many people used them without understanding their potential risks. Davis worked to educate the public on proper dilution methods, contraindications, and responsible usage. Her efforts helped establish guidelines that have since become standard in aromatherapy practice, preventing misuse and ensuring that essential oils are used in a way that promotes health rather than harm.

In addition to her writing, Davis was a strong advocate for public awareness of aromatherapy’s benefits. She conducted lectures, workshops, and training sessions to share her knowledge with both professionals and those new to the practice. By making complex scientific information accessible, she empowered individuals to incorporate essential oils into their daily lives safely and effectively. Her ability to communicate technical details in a clear and engaging manner made her an influential educator in the field.

Davis also played a role in fostering a more evidence-based approach to aromatherapy. She encouraged further research into the therapeutic effects of essential oils, advocating for scientific studies that could validate traditional knowledge. While much of aromatherapy was historically based on anecdotal evidence, Davis believed that integrating research-based findings would strengthen the field and increase its credibility within the medical and scientific communities.

Her contributions extended beyond her book. Davis collaborated with various organizations and practitioners to promote ethical sourcing and sustainability in the production of essential oils. She emphasized the importance of using high-quality, pure essential oils and warned against synthetic additives or low-quality products that could compromise the therapeutic effects. This advocacy helped set higher industry standards and encouraged responsible practices in the essential oil market.

Although much of Davis’s work was centered on essential oils, her broader impact was in holistic health education. She supported a balanced approach to wellness, integrating aromatherapy with other natural therapies such as massage, herbal medicine, and mindfulness practices. Her approach was holistic, recognizing that true well-being involves physical, emotional, and mental health. This perspective resonated with many practitioners and contributed to the growing acceptance of complementary and alternative medicine.

Patricia Davis resides in the Southwest of England, where she has dedicated many years to the practice and teaching of aromatherapy. Beyond her professional endeavors, she has authored several best-selling books, including Subtle Aromatherapy, A Change for the Better, and Astrological Aromatherapy. While specific details about her personal life remain private, her extensive work and publications reflect a deep commitment to holistic health and natural therapies.

Patricia Davis’s legacy continues to influence the field of aromatherapy today. Her dedication to education, research, and public awareness has left a lasting mark, ensuring that essential oils are used knowledgeably and safely. Aromatherapy: An A-Z remains a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced practitioners, a testament to her lifelong commitment to sharing accurate, well-researched information about the power of essential oils.

How to Use Essential Oils: Clary Sage

Clary sage (Salvia sclarea) is a biennial or perennial herb that can grow up to six feet tall and is widely recognized for its calming properties and benefits to the skin. Historically, clary sage was frequently used in the Middle Ages to help soothe skin irritations and promote overall wellness. The essential oil, distilled from the plant’s flowering tops and leaves, has a distinct herbal, earthy aroma that has made it a valuable ingredient in aromatherapy and natural skincare. Adding 3 drops of clary sage and 3 drops of Roman chamomile to bath water is a common practice for creating a relaxing, stress-relieving soak. Similarly, diffusing 2-3 drops of clary sage essential oil is widely believed to support restful sleep and relaxation. While anecdotal evidence supports these benefits, more scientific studies are needed to fully confirm its effectiveness in improving sleep quality.

Clary sage essential oil is also commonly used in hair and scalp care. Many people add 4-5 drops of clary sage essential oil to shampoo or conditioner to help promote a healthy scalp and strong hair. The oil contains linalyl acetate, a compound known for its soothing and balancing properties, which may help reduce scalp irritation and improve overall hair appearance. Additionally, clary sage essential oil is used in massage therapy, with 3-4 drops blended into fractionated coconut oil to create a soothing massage blend that helps relax muscles and rejuvenate the skin. Although these applications are widely practiced, further research is needed to determine the long-term benefits of clary sage essential oil on scalp health and hair growth.

Beyond stress relief and hair care, clary sage is being explored for its potential hormonal-balancing properties. Some studies suggest that its compounds may help support relaxation during menstrual cycles and contribute to a greater sense of emotional well-being. Many aromatherapists recommend diffusing clary sage oil or applying it diluted to the lower abdomen for potential menstrual support, though more clinical research is necessary to confirm its direct effects on hormonal balance. Despite these uncertainties, clary sage essential oil remains a popular and versatile natural remedy, valued for its calming, skin-soothing, and aromatic benefits in holistic wellness practices.

How to Use Essential Oils: Massage

Massage is the manipulation of the body’s soft tissues through techniques such as holding, moving, compressing, or stroking. It can help improve circulation, relieve pain, relax muscles, reduce swelling, speed healing after strains, and release tension and stress. Essential oils can enhance the benefits of massage by adding therapeutic properties and soothing aromas. To use, dilute 1-10 drops of essential oil in 1 tablespoons of a carrier oil such as fractionated coconut, almond, olive, or sesame seed oil to ensure proper application and avoid skin irritation.

For a relaxing massage blend, combine 5 drops each of Roman chamomile, lavender, and orange essential oils with 2 tablespoons of carrier oil. This calming mixture can promote relaxation and ease tension. Massage the blend into the skin using gentle, purposeful strokes to maximize its benefits. Whether used for relaxation or targeted relief, essential oils can make your massage experience even more effective and enjoyable.

Ode to Basil

Oh, fragrant basil, herb divine,
With spicy notes and touch of thyme,
You calm the storm, you ease the mind,
A tranquil balm for humankind.

In a diffuser, your essence flows,
Promoting focus as knowledge grows.
While studying or reading through the night,
You sharpen thoughts and bring delight.

In kitchens, you take center stage,
A single drop on the culinary page,
Transforming dishes, fresh and bright,
A taste of gardens in every bite.

For weary souls, you’re a tender balm,
With wintergreen, you restore the calm.
A massage of oils, the stress will cease,
Neck to shoulders, you bring sweet peace.

During cycles, you lend your grace,
A soothing touch, a warm embrace.
Internally taken, a drop will do,
To steady and comfort the body anew.

Oh, basil, friend of both heart and plate,
A gift from nature, so simple, so great.
In every drop, a story untold,
Of wellness, flavor, and courage bold.

Winter Diffuser Blends

Winter Diffuser Blends for a Fresh Start to the New Year

As we say goodbye to the holidays and embrace the fresh opportunities of the new year, these winter diffuser blends will fill your home with warmth, energy, and comfort. Try these blends to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere or a bright and invigorating vibe to start 2025 off right!


Crystal Snow

For a crisp, refreshing scent that mimics the cool air of a snowy day:

  • 5 drops Peppermint
  • 2 drops Ylang Ylang

Frosted Trees

Bring the fresh, forest-like aroma of evergreens into your space:

  • 4 drops Siberian Fir
  • 2 drops Peppermint
  • 1 drop Wintergreen

Tea Time

Perfect for chilly afternoons, this warm and spicy blend creates a cozy, tea-like atmosphere:

  • 1 drop Cardamom
  • 2 drops Cinnamon Bark
  • 3 drops Wild Orange
  • 1 drop Clove

Mittens

Wrap yourself in the warmth of this comforting, citrusy blend:

  • 2 drops Cinnamon Bark
  • 4 drops Wild Orange
  • 2 drops Cedarwood

New Year’s Fresh Start (Bonus Blend for January 1st)

Infuse your space with optimism and clarity for the year ahead:

  • 3 drops Lemon
  • 2 drops Eucalyptus
  • 3 drops Frankincense

Start the new year with scents that inspire joy, calm, and motivation. These blends are perfect for winter days when you want to unwind, reflect, or set new intentions.

Learn more about essential oils and creative diffuser blends at lensoils.com. Here’s to a bright and aromatic 2025!