Have you ever heard of gardenia essential oil? Not very popular, this unique aromatic oil boasts several unique benefits not known by many. Gardenia essential oil is obtained from the petals of the Gardenia flower which belongs to the Rubiaceae family. The flowers are native to Asia but are also seen in certain parts of the United States of America. The essential oil is obtained by a process known as effleurage by soaking the petals of the Gardenia Jasminoides Ellis in fat obtained from animals or vegetables. The essence of the fat is to absorb the fragrance of the petals. The next step is to dissolve the fat in alcohol to obtain the oil. The gardenia plant with its roots and leaves has been used in traditional Chinese medicine as a herbal remedy. It is still being used today for a similar purpose and for aromatherapy.
Benefits
- May Help Fight Infection
The gardenia essential oil possesses antibacterial properties so it is effective in removing harmful bacteria. It also has antiviral properties and thus may be able to rid the body of viral infections. To fight infections using the gardenia essential oil, a few drops of the gardenia essential oil can be massaged onto the chest area or it may be inhaled. This is important in getting rid of respiratory infections. For infections on the skin, massaging the oil onto the affected area may be helpful.
- Alleviates Depression
Potential symptoms of depression include fatigue, loss of appetite and even the inability to remain focused. The gardenia essential oil has stimulating properties that can prevent anxiety and depression. This is actually one of the reasons why this essential oil is popularly used in aromatherapy. The antidepressant effect of the gardenia essential oil may be seen in the emotional center of the brain where it enhances brain-derived neurotrophic factors. It may also be able to relieve stress by enhancing circulation which in turn provides energy.
- May help digestion and protect the digestive tract
By increasing the secretions of digestive juices, gardenia oil may help improve the rate at which food, particularly fat is digested. While bacteria may affect gut health, the oil can stimulate the activity of probiotics in the gut that can effectively limit the spread of harmful bacteria. Various studies have also shown that the gardenia essential oil can also help neutralize the acid secreted in the stomach. This property suggests that it may be able to prevent many disorders of the gastrointestinal tract including ulcers and acid reflux.
- Lowers Cholesterol
Gardenia has been shown to reduce the level of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) which is also known as bad cholesterol and raise the level of good cholesterol in the body. By lowering LDL levels, gardenia oil not only helps protect the heart but it can reduce obesity. Consuming the gardenia plant extracts has been associated with weight reduction. Some authors think that inhaling the fragrance of this essential oil can have the same benefits as when the plant extracts are consumed.
- May Help Relieve Pain
With only the topical application of gardenia essential oil, aches can be relieved. Headaches and menstrual cramps can also effectively be managed with the oil. Massaging the essential oil directly on the area where the pain is felt can be helpful. The anti-inflammatory properties of this essential oil may contribute to its usefulness in relieving pain. Inflammation is usually associated with pain thus when inflammation is prevented, the accompanying pain can be well managed.
- Treats Respiratory Ailments
Phlegm and mucus usually block the airways but essential oils including the gardenia essential oil are a safer home remedy. As already mentioned, this essential oil can effectively reduce the microbes that cause respiratory infections. It may also be able to loosen up phlegm and mucus that block the respiratory passages. It is very effective when it is massaged on the chest area or inhaled.
- May Help Improve Production of Milk
The gardenia essential oil can act as a galactagogue and enhance the production of milk in breastfeeding women. To improve milk production, it is essential to mix a few drops of the gardenia essential oil with a carrier oil and then massage the breast area with the mixture. It may be best to avoid the nipple area during the application.
Uses
- Aromatherapy: One of the major uses of the gardenia essential oil is in aromatherapy. To get the benefits of this essential oil, it may be necessary to add a few drops to a diffuser. The oil then evaporates into the air and can be inhaled to reap its benefits. This method is usually best used to improve mood, reduce restlessness, and prevent anxiety and depression.
- Moisturizer: Another great benefit of the gardenia essential oil is that it can improve the appearance of the skin. Since it contains antioxidants, it may be able to get rid of harmful free radicals that can cause premature aging. To protect the skin, the gardenia essential oil can be combined with either a carrier oil that also promotes healthy skin or with a moisturizer. A few drops of this essential oil can also be added to a steam bath.
- Deodorant: The sweet fragrance of the gardenia essential oil is a good way to get rid of offensive odors. Just as in aromatherapy, the gardenia essential oil is added to a diffuser and the fragrance is allowed to evaporate in a room. It can also be combined with other essential oils to get a unique fragrance. Some have also suggested mixing a few drops of the gardenia essential oil with a deodorant to get better results.
- Massage oil: Many essential oils have been used as massage oils and the gardenia oil is not left out. It can be mixed with a carrier oil and rubbed onto the skin in gentle circular motions. It is best used as a massage oil because it can help fight off infections and promote health.
- Salve: Homemade salves with essential oils can help promote the healing of wounds. Mixing a few drops of gardenia essential oil with a carrier oil before applying it to a wounded area can soothe wounds and promote faster healing.
Another great way to use the oil is in candle recipes. In this way, one can benefit from its aromatherapy effect, improve mood, and still get rid of bad odor. Adding the gardenia essential oil to a steam bath can also help with congestion and respiratory infections.
Conclusion- Gardenia Essential Oil
Gardenia essential oil has so many health benefits and can be used in different ways to get the best results. The gardenia oil has been reported to be responsible for skin irritations especially when it is applied directly to the skin. Skin irritations may also occur when a very large quantity of the essential oil is applied used. Common symptoms of skin irritation associated with the use of gardenia essential oil include redness and dry itchy skin. Those with skin irritations are particularly at risk since the use of this essential oil may worsen already existing skin problems. It is best to seek the opinion of a doctor before using this essential oil topically. Pregnant women and children should also be careful when using gardenia essential oil. In fact, it is best to keep all essential oils away from the reach of children.