Essential Oils And Their Holistic Benefits
The global essential oils market was valued at $7.3 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach $13.6 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 9.3 per cent (Grand View Research)
The essential oils market for de-stressing has grown significantly in recent years, driven by increasing consumer interest in natural wellness and self-care. Essential oils can be used for massages which allow you to de-stress without any addictive substances. They soothe the nervous system and create a balanced body, in terms of hormones and some essential oils ensure good quality sleep. Some are used for anti-anxiety and other relaxation methods. The majority of essential oil users (71 per cent) use them for stress relief and relaxation (National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy).
What are essential oils?
According to Rutu Tawde, Founder, Chief Educator, and Skin & Hair Care Formulator, SpaWithRutu and spaEdx, “Essential oils are volatile and highly concentrated essences of aromatic plants. They can be derived from all parts of the plants including flowers, fruits, leaves, barks, roots and core wood. Essential oils are obtained through distillation (via steam and/or water) or mechanical methods.” She also explained that for centuries, individuals have practiced essential oils and utilised them through aromatherapy for therapeutic, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
Benefits of essential oils
Tawde also explained that, “When you inhale or apply essential oils to your skin, the powerful compounds within these oils can interact with your body and brain through the olfactory receptors or via absorption through the skin.” She went on to state that inhaling an essential oil has the potential to stimulate the limbic system, which plays a key role in regulating emotions, stress levels, and motivation.
The most popular essential oils for stress relief are:
- Lavender (71 per cent)
- Chamomile (45 per cent)
- Bergamot (44 per cent)
- Frankincense (36 per cent)
- Ylang-ylang (34 per cent) (National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy)
The most common ways to use essential oils for de-stressing are:
- Diffusion (63 per cent)
- Topical application (44 per cent)
- Inhalation (35 per cent)
- Bathing (26 per cent) (National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy)
Essential oils have the power to stimulate your memory, revive your mood, boost your confidence and also rejuvenate you emotionally and physically. “When combined with self-care practices like meditation and exercise, can provide a comforting, calming, and stimulating break from daily worries and anxieties. During the COVID-19 pandemic, essential oils such as Rosemary, Tea Tree, Camphor, and Cajeput, particularly Eucalyptus, saw a significant increase in online retail sales. Studies suggest that Eucalyptol, the active component of Eucalyptus, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties,” explains Rutu Tawde.
Essential oils market
Essential oils are primarily purchased online (55 per cent), followed by health food stores (26 per cent), and specialty stores (15 per cent) (National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy).
Women (62 per cent) are more likely to use essential oils for stress relief than men (38 per cent). The majority of users are between 25-44 years old (54 per cent) (National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy). Increasing consumer awareness of natural wellness, growing demand for stress relief solutions, and expanding distribution channels are driving market growth (Grand View Research). These insights indicate a growing demand for essential oils as a natural solution for stress relief, with lavender, chamomile, and bergamot being the most popular options.
Best essential oils for holistic wellness
Rutu Tawde also explained what purpose essential oils can achieve -
1. Relaxation: Sandalwood, Jasmine, Lavender and Vetiver
Purpose: They help balance mood swings, instil calm and comfort. They also encourage a sense of belonging.
2. Mental Clarity: Rosemary, Bergamot, Holy Basil and Peppermint:
Purpose: They help energise, motivate, uplift, promote clear thoughts and relieve mental fatigue.
3. Well-Being: Clary Sage, Roman Chamomile, Marjoram and Helichrysum.
Purpose: They help to relax and ease nervous tension, anxiety and fear. Promote healing for emotional wounds.
A word of caution: Essential oils to be used in recommended/ prescribed dosage and dilution only, prior to any topical application and inhalation to minimize the risk of skin irritation, sensitisation and photo toxicity.
Indian market for essential oils when compared to the west
According to Rutu Tawde, “The "Make in India" and "Vocal for Local" initiatives have sparked a remarkable surge in the production, regional adoption, and international trade of essential oils across diverse business sectors.” She also added that this growth can be attributed to the increasing significance of spa and wellness practices, mental well-being in medical tourism, skincare and hair care therapies, beauty and cosmetics, and opulent weddings, all of which are fueling the demand for locally-sourced, natural, and organic herbs, extracts, and botanical formulations with proven health benefits.
Consumers are increasingly turning to essential oils to address a wide range of issues, such as toothaches, skin problems, sleep disturbances (utilising essential oil-infused sleep menus), and emotional imbalances. “The evolving consumer demand has prompted companies in pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and cleaning industries to broaden their research and development efforts to incorporate essential oils, such as clove for toothpaste and lemongrass or lemons for cleaning soaps. As a result, the essential oil market in India and globally is experiencing significant growth,” she signed off.
