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Before you begin -

Essential oils must be diluted in a carrier oil when used topically (e.g. coconut or jojoba oil), and always do a patch test before applying to larger areas of your body. Also, do not ingest essential oils, unless recommended by a health professional.

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Lavender -

This popular calming scent can help you relax and sleep better. It can also help alleviate headaches and help reduce itching and swelling caused by bug bites.

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Lavender -

Side effects are rare, but may occur. These include headaches, nausea, vomiting, and chills.

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Melaleuca -

Also known as tea tree oil, it's easy to see why this is a Meghan Markle favorite. It has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. From eczema to bug bites, melaleuca has plenty of uses.

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Melaleuca -

Do not ingest this oil, as it can lead to digestive problems, hives, and dizziness.

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Rose -

The beautiful floral scent of rose can help reduce anxiety. This essential oil also has antioxidant properties, making it helpful in the treatment of acne.

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Rose -

It can still cause skin irritation, however, so use more carrier oil to dilute it when you apply it topically.

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Roman chamomile -

Chamomile is known for its calming properties. It can also help with skin inflammation and eczema.

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Roman chamomile -

Avoid this oil if you're allergic to daisies, marigolds, or ragweed.

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Helichrysum -

This essential oil has antioxidant, antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be particularly useful in treating acne, athlete's foot, and psoriasis.

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Helichrysum -

It's a pretty safe oil to use. Major side effects are not known. 

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Orange -

Orange oil is great for your skin, so applying it topically is a no-brainer. It can also help reduce anxiety and relieve pain.

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Orange -

But it's important that you dilute it well, as it can irritate your skin. Sun exposure should also be avoided when applied topically.

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Arborvitae -

This essential oil can be used to repel bugs and reduce stress. It can also help your skin look great.

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Arborvitae -

You should not ingest it, and avoid inhaling too much too quickly, as it can irritate your respiratory tract.

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Lemon -

Lemon oil boasts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can also be useful in relieving nausea.

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Lemon -

Because it's very photosensitive, sun exposure should be avoided if you use it topically.

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Basil -

Basil oil has antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it a good choice if you have a cold or the flu. It can also help treat acne.

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Basil -

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should talk to their doctors before using basil oil.

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Peppermint -

The minty scent can help with headaches, indigestion, and relieving IBS symptoms.  Used topically it has a cooling effect, which can be beneficial for sunburns and muscle pain.

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Peppermint -

This oil should not be ingested, as it can cause heartburn and headaches, among other side effects.

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Spearmint -

Similar in aroma to peppermint, this essential oil also has antifungal properties.

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Spearmint -

Ask your doctor before using spearmint oil if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.

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Grapefruit -

Grapefruit oil is extracted from the fruit's peel. It has antifungal properties and can potentially be used as an antibacterial agent.

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Grapefruit -

Avoid sun exposure if you apply grapefruit oil topically.

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Frankincense -

Also known as olibanum, this essential oil may help prevent oral health problems, including bad breath.

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Frankincense -

Side effects are rare, though some people might be sensitive to it when applied topically.

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Vetiver -

This essential oil can have mood enhancing properties and help you relax. It also has antioxidant properties and can help with skin problems, including scarring.

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Vetiver -

Vetiver is one of the mildest essential oils—side effects are rare.

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Myrrh -

Myrrh oil is great for skin problems, including cracked skin, athlete's foot, and acne.

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Myrrh -

Myrrh shouldn't be taken orally. Side effects include dermatitis, heart irregularities, and lower blood pressure. Do not use myrrh if you're pregnant.

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Ylang ylang -

This essential oil can help you relax and, according to a study, even boost self-esteem. Ylang ylang can also act as a repellent against certain insects.

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Ylang ylang -

Potential side effect include sensitization, rashes, headaches, and nausea.

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Hyssop -

This essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties. It's great in helping to minimize scarring, and it decreases inflammation overall.

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Hyssop -

The use of hyssop is discouraged for those who are pregnant or have a history of seizures.

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Oregano -

Oregano oil has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. It is also packed with antioxidants. It may be helpful in the treatment of a number of skin conditions, as well as fever and respiratory problems.

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Oregano -

You should talk to your doctor before using oregano oil if you're pregnant.

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Cedarwood -

This essential oil can be used in the treatment of acne, eczema, and reducing dandruff.  It might also help with arthritis, and relieve coughing.

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Cedarwood -

Ingesting cedarwood oil can lead to nausea, vomiting, and damage to the digestive system.

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Cassia -

Unlike spearmint and peppermint, which have a cooling effect, cassia is warm as only cinnamon can be.

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Cassia -

You should not use this oil if you're pregnant.

Sources: (National Library of Medicine)

See also: Things you cannot do while pregnant

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