1. Essential oils are great for cleaning

Essential oils are actually full of fungus, bacteria and virus-fighting properties that can help ward off illnesses or just freshen up a living space. Not only does it make the room smell good and fresh, it literally helps clean the air. Just throw it in a diffuser and clean away.

*Great oils for this are rosemary, lemon, frankincense or tea tree.

2. Great natural deterrent for insect repellent

Bugs also don't like certain essential oils. Which sounds and smells better than most marketed bug sprays. And it probably tastes better because let's be honest, we have all accidentally inhaled bug spray and it's horrible. It is also a super safe option for young children because it is all natural!

*Dilute with water with a blend of oils like lemongrass, clove, rosemary, or peppermint.

3. Can be used to relieve pain

Essential oils can be used as anti-inflammatories for joint pain, muscle aches, or headaches. I've used it for my headaches before by just rubbing some on my temples and neck. It can also be mixed with lotions and used for massaging out sore body parts.

*A combination lotion and oils such as lavender, bergamot, and chamomile, peppermint, eucalyptus, and rosemary would be a great choice.

4. They increase cognition and brain performance

Some oils are proven to enhance memory and increase awareness. I personally like to use some oils to help me focus while studying or reading, or when I'm just feeling like my brain is all over the place.

*Some of my favorites, but not limited to, are rosemary, lavender, lemongrass, peppermint, and frankincense.

5. Essential oils improve sleep

For me, this has probably been the most important reason for using essential oils. I love diffusing oils while sleeping. Essential oils are known for their calming effects and can positively impact the quality of sleep.

*Lavender and chamomile are great to diffuse during sleep.

6. They improve your mood

Sometimes you might be sluggish, cranky, or moody. Essential oils are a great remedy for a little pick-me-up during these tough days. A little essential oil diffusing to get you through those afternoon classes or the rest of the workday might be exactly what you need.

*Try diffusing lemongrass, orange, or vanilla.

 7. They can help ease congestion and swelling

Essential oils are great for getting through cold season. Stuffy noses, coughs, and sore throats suck. Diffusing some minty or eucalyptus oils in the air can help clear your airways and reduce throat inflammation.

*Feeling sick? Diffuse spearmint, peppermint, or eucalyptus. Or mix them all together. Also, throw a few drops in a hot bath. Eucalyptus + steam = being able to smell again!

8. Great for relaxing

Life is stressful. Not only do some oils do great things like reduce heart rate and high blood pressure, but also to diffuse those oils means I am taking some time for myself for self-reflection and to unwind.

*If you are feeling anxious, stressed or down, try diffusing lavender, chamomile, or frankincense.