There are more than 90 types of essential oils each with its own unique aromas and qualities. Essential oils are used by people in their everyday routines for health, beauty and home care benefits but with so many different types it can be difficult to determine which essential oils are right for you. 

To make things easier we have compiled a list of what we believe are the best five essential oils and provided a breakdown of each, highlighting their benefits, scents and how best to use them. 

Lavender Oil

Lavender is perhaps one of the most popular and well-known essential oils due to its versatility. It's used primarily in aromatherapy and is distilled from the plant Lavandula angustifolia with a gorgeous floral and herbal scent. Lavender oil can be used in many ways to support calming and relaxation but is also believed to treat anxiety, allergies, depression, insomnia, eczema, nausea, menstrual cramps and have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Best for: calming and relaxing

How to use Lavender Oil: Body oils, massage oils, perfumes, room mists, diffusers, lotions, creams, washing powders

Peppermint Oil

Peppermint essential oil has been taken as a natural aid to digestion for thousands of years but this aromatic herb in the mint family has a variety of different purposes. Its odour is sharp, refreshing and invigorating with a taste that isn't too dissimilar. 

This essential oil has some unexpected benefits for our bodies, it's mainly used for digestion and to treat the symptoms of IBS, however it's also said to improve energy and concentration as well as be a good aid for sinus relief and easing menstrual cramps. 

Best for: digestion and energy 

How to use Peppermint Oil: body oils, massage oils, peppermint oil capsules, soaks, diffusions, room mists, perfumes

Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus essential oil is distilled from the leaves of the tree and is used frequently in body care products such as body oils and rubs. 

This essential oil supports the respiratory system and soothes physical discomfort, which is one of the main reasons it's used to treat conditions such as nasal congestions and asthma. This clarifying oil has a foresty, medicinal scent and due to its cleansing and immune-boosting oil it can often be found in cleaning agents and fabric freshener. 

Best for: clarifying

How to use Eucalyptus Oil: Body oils, massage oils, body rubs, bath and shower gels, balms

Chamomile Oil

Chamomile is acknowledged for its soothing and calming properties that work wonders whether it's rosacea, irritation, acne or any other skin concern. Chamomile is not only a great natural remedy for calming skin but also for calming the mind and body. 

Over the centuries it's been used for anxiety relief, easing skin conditions, anti-inflammation and pain relief for things like back pain and arthritis. In addition to this it's been used for wound healing, relief of digestive upset and promoting sleep. 

Best for: inflammation and calming

How to use Chamomile Oil: Face masks, body oils, massage oils, body washes, tea, moisturiser, creams 

Tea Tree Oil

This is another essential oil known for its cleansing and purifying benefits. It's often referred to as melaleuca oil and comes from the leaves of the Australian Tea Tree. The oil is used in a variety of body and home care products and is believed to be antibacterial. It's commonly used to treat acne and other skin issues such as athlete's foot and insect bites and has a spicy, herbal aroma. 

Best for: cleansing and inflammation 

How to use Tea Tree Oil: Creams, gels, serums, body oils, conditioners, face washes

And these are just a few of the essential oils that hold powerful qualities. There are 85 more oils with so many more benefits. Just make sure before garnering the advantages of these essential oils that you check they are suited to you, your skin and your health.