5 Essential Oils Everyone Should Have (and Why You’ll Love Them) 

If you’ve ever experimented with the world of aromatherapy, you know it can be a bit overwhelming. With literally hundreds of essential oils to choose from, how do you know where to start?

Whether you're into natural wellness, DIY skincare, or simply want your home to smell amazing, these five must-have essential oils are versatile, beginner-friendly, and beloved for good reason. Let’s break down what they do—and why they belong in every cabinet.

1. Lavender – The Queen of Calm

Lavender essential oil is practically a wellness icon. Known for its calming, sleep-supporting properties, it’s your go-to for stress relief, bedtime rituals, and even soothing skin irritations. Diffuse it before bed, mix it into a bath, or dab a diluted drop on your wrists to unwind.

Studies show that linalool, the main component in lavender oil, has measurable anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects when inhaled, helping to calm the nervous system without sedation. It’s also been shown to improve sleep quality—especially helpful during stressful periods.

Best for: Sleep, stress relief, minor burns or bites.

DIY Tip: Add a few drops to a pillow spray or bath salts for a peaceful night.

Pro tip- I actually sell sleep sprays, already formulated for you with other complimentary oils at our very own Salem Apothecary! 

2. Peppermint – The Wake-Up Call

When you need a mental refresh, peppermint oil delivers. Its cool, minty aroma is energizing, focus-enhancing, and great for headaches. Rub a diluted blend on your temples or diffuse it while working to stay alert.

Peppermint contains menthol, which has been studied for its ability to improve cognitive performance and reduce mental fatigue. Inhaling peppermint can even enhance physical performance and improve reaction times—making it ideal before workouts or study sessions.

Best for: Focus, fatigue, tension relief.

DIY Tip: Combine with a carrier oil for a post-workout muscle rub or midday pick-me-up roll-on.

Pro tip- You don’t need very much to be effective- just a couple drops will work! 

3. Tea Tree – The Skin Hero

Tea tree oil (also known as melaleuca) is nature’s cleanser. With powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties, it’s perfect for DIY skincare, bug bites, and even natural cleaning products.

Research has shown tea tree oil to be effective against acne-causing bacteria and fungal infections like athlete’s foot. It’s also great for scalp health and reducing inflammation when properly diluted. And, it’s included in most commercial based lice treatments because of its efficacy at killing lice and mites! 

Best for: Acne, scalp care, first-aid kits.

DIY Tip: Add a drop to your facial cleanser or shampoo for a purifying boost.

4. Lemon – The Liquid Sunshine

Clean, uplifting, and oh-so-fresh—lemon essential oil is like bottled sunshine. It’s a favorite for natural cleaning, mood-boosting, and immune support. Just don’t apply it before sun exposure—it can make skin photosensitive.

Lemon oil contains limonene, a powerful antioxidant and natural mood elevator shown to reduce anxiety and support detoxification. It also has proven antibacterial and antiviral properties, making it a favorite in homemade cleaners.

Best for: Cleaning, energy, air purification.

DIY Tip: Mix with vinegar and water for a natural surface spray or diffuse in the kitchen for a fresh start.

Pro tip- for an extra boost for windows, add some isopropyl alcohol for a streak-free clean!

5. Frankincense – The Grounding Glow

Often called the "king of oils," frankincense is revered for its deeply grounding and skin-supportive properties. Use it in meditation, skincare, or for calming anxious energy. It blends beautifully with almost any other oil, making it a true aromatherapy staple.

Compounds like alpha-pinene and boswellic acids contribute to frankincense’s anti-inflammatory and stress-relieving effects. Some studies even suggest it may help regulate cortisol and support immune health.

Best for: Meditation, mature skin, emotional balance.

DIY Tip: Add to your favorite facial oil or diffuser during quiet time to center yourself.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a hundred bottles to enjoy the benefits of essential oils—just a few high-quality staples can go a long way. These five are beloved for their versatility, safety, and scientifically backed wellness benefits.

Want to get started? Look for pure, ethically sourced oils from reputable brands, and always dilute properly before use. Whether you're building a morning ritual, a bedtime wind-down routine, or a cleaner home—natural wellness is just a drop away.

Need some individual attention? Feel free to reach out to me on facebook at Rachel Dufour, Aromatherapist – I’m always accepting new clients! I want to help you reach your goals! 

See you next week :)