How can essential oils help treat eczema or ease insomnia? We list five fragrant oils that have unique healing properties.
by Beverley Lewis
If you are a big fan of anti-aging products, but are looking for something a bit more natural and specially-crafted for your skin, maybe it is time you tried blending your own essential oils, as a more natural and effective way to keep your skin healthy and younger looking. Essential oils can reduce the signs of aging and keep your skin healthy and fresh. Learn more about the top essential oils for facial use on any skin type.
Remember to blend 10 drops of an essential oil in 20 ml of a carrier oil like almond or grapeseed oil.
These are some oils you can use:
Juniper: Juniper oil is derived through the steam distillation of the needles, wood and fruit of the juniper tree. Juniper oil can be used in a number of different ways and is an effective facial skin tonic. It tightens the skin and also kills bacteria, thereby helping to prevent infection in acne sufferers.
Frankincense: Frankincense (in pic on left) is well-known for its ant-aging properties. This essential oil has been used as a cosmetic since ancient Egyptian times and continues to be popular to this day. Frankincense can help prevent and reduce wrinkles, as well as smooth and refine the appearance of the skin. It also promotes the growth of new skin cells.
Rosemary: This popular kitchen herb, when blended into an essential oil, can help rejuvenate mature skin and improve circulation. Its mild antiseptic properties can also prevent infection.
Neem: Oil from the seed or fruit of the neem tree has been used in traditional Indian medicine for many years. Neem oil is an effective treatment for many skin conditions and can be used as an ingredient in soap to help treat oily or greasy skin. Neem oil can also soothe and reduce the symptoms of eczema and acne.
Lavender: The essential oil of lavender (in pic on right) is well-known for its calming properties, and is known to help people with insomnia. If you 
suffer from insomnia, try sprinkling a few drops of this essential oil on your pillow before bedtime. Additionally, lavender oil can also be used to treat eczema and acne, as well as insect bites and stings.
With inputs from Nisha Dhutia, aromatherapist.
(Pictures courtesy www.ancient-minerals.com, gardenofeaden.blogspot.com, essentialoil.co.in)