Natural substances have been proven to be incredibly useful and beneficial to the health of many people. Essential oils are organic, fragrant chemicals that occur naturally and are harvested from the bodies of plants. Since they have been shown to be so useful to humans, it follows that they function the same way for animals as well.
But not all essential oils are made the same – while some are great for human use, it is necessary to note which ones are similarly beneficial and safe for pets. Just like how humans may react differently to certain compounds, it is vital to specify exactly what chemicals may have what effects on animals, to prevent accidentally applying something toxic to your furry friends. Know which oils are known to improve the quality of life for your pets:
Great Essential Oils for Dogs
- Peppermint
Peppermint oil is a very commonly used oil in flea repellent made for sale in many pet stores and markets. According to veterinarians, peppermint oil soothes sore muscles and upset stomachs. It also promotes a healthy respiratory tract by opening airways and can treat aching joints. It is also a great energizing oil for dogs, so use it to boost their mood to make them more active. Dog shampoos commonly include peppermint as an ingredient to the product, as it contains properties effective for treating pests.
- Lavender
Lavender oil is already a popular choice for many people, so chances are you may already have some on hand. Aside from anti-inflammatory and antiseptic qualities that lavender is said to have, it is also said to be effective in soothing anxiety, restlessness, and depression. Using this oil on your dog will calm down their nerves and relax them. Use some lavender on your pet when they have sleeping troubles or feel anxious, perhaps brought about after a visit to the vet or car sickness.
Treat burns, itches, and wounds with lavender oil, as it has been shown to have great effects in treating skin irritations due to its said anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
- Frankincense
To humans, frankincense oil provide a variety of health benefits, such as relieving stress, pain, and inflammation, and in boosting immunity. However, it is also popular for potentially having properties effective in preventing cancer. The use of frankincense oils on pets have shown great results in fighting the threat of the development of tumors and cancer in pets as well as in humans. It possesses antimicrobial qualities, making it useful for germ protection and immune boosting.
- Chamomile
Chamomile is known for its ability to treat depression and anxiety, soothe cramps, skin conditions and reduce inflammation. It is also known to improve heart health and decrease the risk of heart related diseases. In the case of skin irritation for pets such as burns, eczema or wounds, chamomile oil is incredible at mending these problems, and calm down stressed dogs.
- Cedarwood
Cedarwood oil is known for its ability as a repellent for pests. Used on humans and dogs, it can increase circulation, making it useful for body pains, as well as improve hair growth and scalp health due to its antifungal, moisturizing qualities.
Great Essential Oils for Cats
- Spearmint
Though somewhat similar to peppermint oil in terms of uses, (though peppermint oil should never be used on cats) spearmint oil comes with its own set of benefits that your cats can enjoy. Great at treating digestive problems and nausea in both humans and cats, spearmint oil can be used to treat cats suffering from diarrhea, as well as improve their metabolism, and promote healthy intestines, making felines less likely to suffer from gastrointestinal problems.
- Cardamom
Like spearmint oil, cardamom oil is an incredible digestive assistant for cats. It also boasts the ability to ease heartburn and improving the appetite of your furry friends. Its antimicrobial properties also make it useful for promoting healthy breathing and curing coughs.
- Helichrysum
Helichrysum oil provides a great variety of health benefits for you and animals, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antibacterial and antifungal properties. It also improves the nervous system and heart condition, and can decrease blood loss during injuries the animal may have sustained.
- Fennel
Aside from a sweet smell similar to candy, fennel oil can support the pituitary, pineal, and thyroid glands. If your cat is suffering from an unhealthy buildup of toxins, fennel essential oils will prove very effective in getting the cat back in shape.