What You'll Learn
Essential oils aren't just for making things smell nice! In this guide, you'll discover practical, time-tested uses for essential oils in first aid, gardening, and around the house. From treating minor cuts to keeping pests away, these natural solutions have been helping families for generations.
Important: Always read the safety warnings at the bottom before using any essential oils.
🏥 First Aid Uses
Cuts & Abrasions
Tea tree oil can be used to help sterilize cuts. Always dilute properly and test on a small area first.
Insomnia
A few drops of Lavender oil on the underside or in the corners of your pillow to help promote a sound night's sleep.
Lice Prevention
Tea tree oil can be used in shampoo to kill lice, and in hair products to help prevent lice.
Pain Relief
Birch, eucalyptus and peppermint can all be used as a local anesthetic for minor aches and pains.
Rash & Irritation
Tea tree oil can soothe itch from bug bites, rash or poison ivy. Always dilute before applying to skin.
Sinus & Respiratory
Eucalyptus is used for its respiratory, sinus, and cold easing properties. Try adding to a diffuser or steam inhalation.
🌱 In the Garden
Basil Oil
Repels flies and supports vegetable plant health. Spray diluted solution around plants.
Cedarwood Oil
To prevent roaches, slugs and snails from damaging your garden plants.
Lavender Oil
Attracts beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies while repelling mosquitoes and chiggers.
Peppermint Oil
Repels ants, aphids, beetles, moths and spiders. Perfect natural pest control!
Tea Tree Oil
Help plants ward-off diseases, mold and fungus. Great for plant health maintenance.
Thyme Oil
Deters beetles on rose bushes. Keep your beautiful flowers protected naturally.
🏠 Around the House
Dishwasher Boost
Add two drops of grapefruit or lemongrass essential oil to your dishwasher before using it. The oil will help in removing grease and accumulation of soap and your dishes will shine.
Flea Repellent
Lemongrass oil can be used to repel fleas. Include about five drops of this oil to a cup of water in a spray bottle, then use this spray on the coat of your pet.
Rodent Deterrent
Dab a few drops of Peppermint oil on cotton balls and place them around your home, or make a spray and combine two teaspoons of oil for every one cup of water.
Rug Freshener
Add 12 drops of Lavender oil to one ounce of baking soda. Mix and sprinkle on the rug, let sit for 30 minutes, then vacuum.
Stinky Shoes
Dab a few drops of your favorite essential oil on two cotton balls, place one in each shoe, and leave overnight.
Tick Prevention
Lavender oil can repel ticks and makes it difficult for the eggs to hatch. Include a few drops of lavender oil to the shampoo of your pet.
⚠️ Important Safety Warnings
• Never ingest: Essential oils may be toxic if ingested, never swallow or ingest essential oils.
• Wash hands: Wash hands after handling essential oils, as residue on the fingers may damage contact lenses or cause eye discomfort.
• Patch test first: When using on skin or pet, start by doing a patch test to make sure you don't have an allergic reaction. Place a few drops of oil on a small patch of skin and watch for any signs of irritation for 24 hours.
• Read labels: Always read the labels. Pay attention to any specific warnings on your essential oil packaging and adhere to any recommendations provided.
• Dilute properly: Most essential oils should be diluted with a carrier oil (like coconut or jojoba oil) before applying to skin.