Have you started to dive into the vast and fascinating world of essential oils and their many uses? They are some of natures most powerful tools that humans have been using for centuries for cleaning to enhaning skin and hair health to warding off pests and more. Here is a quick guide to help you find what kind of oil you are looking for.
Top oils for cleaning:
Eucalyptus – Naturally antibacterial and refreshing, great for surfaces and air purification
Tea Tree – Known for its antifungal properties, especially helpful for areas prone to mold (bathrooms, grout, damp spaces)
Lemon – Cuts through grease beautifully, making it perfect for kitchens
Orange – Amazing at breaking down sticky residue (labels, adhesives, gum)
Simple DIY idea:
Add 10–15 drops of lemon + eucalyptus to water and vinegar for an all-purpose cleaner.
Skin & Hair Support
Essential oils can elevate your skincare and haircare routines when used properly (always diluted with a carrier oil).
For skin:
Lavender – Calming and soothing, great for sensitive or irritated skin
Tea Tree – Helps with blemishes and breakouts
Frankincense – Supports skin renewal and a more even-looking complexion
Geranium – Balancing for both dry and oily skin types
For hair & scalp:
Rosemary – Often used to support hair growth and scalp circulation
Peppermint – Invigorating, helps stimulate the scalp
Lavender – Soothing for dry or itchy scalp
Tip: Add a few drops to your shampoo or mix into a scalp oil treatment.
Natural Pest Control
Essential oils can help keep unwanted bugs and pests away—without toxic sprays.
Try these:
Peppermint – Great for deterring mice, ants and spiders
Eucalyptus – Helps repel flies and mosquitoes
Citronella – A classic for outdoor bug control
Lavender – Helps keep moths and some insects at bay
DIY spray:
Mix water + a splash of alcohol + peppermint oil and spray around entry points.
Sleep Support
Struggling to unwind? Certain oils can help signal your body that it’s time to rest.
Best for sleep:
Sleep Support
Lavender – The go-to for relaxation and deeper sleep
Cedarwood – Grounding and calming
Chamomile – Gentle and soothing for the nervous system
Vetiver – Deeply grounding, great for restless minds
How to use: Diffuse before bed or add with carrier oil and dab on body such as wrists or behind ears or dilute in a spray bottle with water and spray on pillow
Mood & Energy Boosting
Essential oils can have a powerful effect on your mood and mental clarity.
For uplifting:
Sweet Orange – Bright, cheerful, and energizing
Lemon – Fresh and clarifying
Chamomile – Gentle and soothing for the nervous system
Vetiver – Deeply grounding, great for restless minds
Bergamot-Helps with lifting low moods
Peppermint-for increased focus and clarity
For Pain Relief
Marjoram- Reduces inflammation
Ginger- contains compounds that block pain receptors
Peppermint- can provide a temporary numbing effect and reduce muscle spasms
Rosemary improves circulation
Use with a carrier oil to apply topically
How to use: Diffuse before bed or add a drop with some carrier oil to your body like wrists or behind ear
Make your own blends for aromatherapy or to freshen rooms or your clothes while in the dryer by adding some oils to dryer balls.
If you are using it for a reed diffuser make sure you use a carrier oil like fractioned coconut oil but not olive or jojoba as those are too thick.
Some good blend combinations:
Vanilla, Coffee and Cinnamon
Lemon, Eucalyptus and Rosemary
Lavender, Patchouli and Bergamot
Sandalwood and Vanilla
Peppermint Rosemary and Lemon