In today’s world, essential oils have become a popular and natural way to enhance senior wellness, clean our homes, and support various other wholesome health goals. However, with the vast range of options available, it can be overwhelming to find those that are both effective and affordable.
That’s why I’ve focused on essential oils under $20 in this post. These oils offer exceptional value for what they accomplish, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to incorporate natural solutions into their routine without breaking the bank.
While some essential oils can be quite expensive, the ones listed here can often be just as effective, proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune to benefit from their amazing properties. Whether you’re seeking overall senior wellness, stress relief, promoting hair growth, or maintaining a clean and fresh home, these budget-friendly oils have you covered.
At www.retiregal.com, we’re committed to providing valuable solutions. We include carefully chosen affiliate products and services and when you purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps us continue offering quality content. We only recommend products and services we truly believe in.
Jump Ahead
The Most Beautiful Essential Oil Burner
The video above shows me playing with my absolute favorite essential oil burner.
Moon Essential Oil Diffuser
- Glass Cool Mist Humidifier
- Light options are warm (golden), cool (bright) or no light
- Timer options keep the essential oils diffusing for as long or as short as you like
- Auto Shut-Off
- Holds an amazing 8 oz of water so it runs all day if you’d like it to.
Overview of Essential Oils Under $20
Following are examples of essential oils under $20, what they are commonly used for, and how they may be used effectively in order to promote senior wellness.
Essential Oil (click to view) | Common Uses | Best Used |
---|---|---|
Lavender | Relaxation, sleep aid, skin care | Diffuser, Topical (neat or with carrier), Spritzer |
Peppermint | Energizing, headache relief, muscle pain | Diffuser, Topical (with carrier oil), Spritzer |
Tea Tree | Antiseptic, skin care, acne treatment | Topical (neat or with carrier), Spritzer |
Eucalyptus | Respiratory support, pain relief, insect repellent | Diffuser, Topical (with carrier oil), Spritzer |
Lemon | Mood booster, cleaning, skin care | Diffuser, Topical (with carrier oil), Spritzer |
Sweet Orange | Uplifting, stress relief, cleaning | Diffuser, Topical (with carrier oil), Spritzer |
Rosemary | Hair care, memory support, muscle pain | Diffuser, Topical (with carrier oil), Spritzer |
Frankincense | Meditation, skin care, immune support | Diffuser, Topical (neat or with carrier), Spritzer |
Lemongrass | Pain relief, stress relief, deodorizing | Diffuser, Topical (with carrier oil), Spritzer |
Clary Sage | Hormone balance, stress relief | Diffuser, Topical (with carrier oil), Spritzer |
Cedarwood | Grounding, skin care, sleep aid | Diffuser, Topical (with carrier oil), Spritzer |
Grapefruit | Energizing, mood booster, skin care | Diffuser, Topical (with carrier oil) |
Spearmint | Digestive support, stress relief | Diffuser, Topical (with carrier oil), Spritzer |
Bergamot | Uplifting, skin care, stress relief | Diffuser, Topical (with carrier oil), Spritzer |
Cypress | Circulation support, muscle pain relief | Diffuser, Topical (with carrier oil), Spritzer |
Patchouli | Skin care, grounding, mood balance | Diffuser, Topical (with carrier oil), Spritzer |
Ylang Ylang | Mood enhancer, relaxation, skin care | Diffuser, Topical (with carrier oil), Spritzer |
Ginger | Digestive support, inflammation relief | Diffuser, Topical (with carrier oil), Spritzer |
Did I miss any? |
Key Points:
- “Neat” means the oil can be applied directly to the skin without a carrier oil. However, even oils that can be used neat should be used sparingly and with caution.
- “With carrier oil” means it’s generally recommended to dilute the essential oil before applying it to the skin, especially for sensitive areas or those new to essential oils.
Using essential oils safely is crucial, so always consider doing a patch test before applying any oil directly to your skin, even if it’s known to be safe for neat use.
Essential Oils Under $20 for Sleep
Following are essential oils that are typically under $20 and can aid in falling asleep, staying asleep, or promoting restful sleep:
Essential Oil (click to view) | Common Uses for Sleep | Other Uses | Best Used |
---|---|---|---|
Lavender | Promotes relaxation and restful sleep | Skin care, anxiety relief | Diffuse, Topical (neat or with carrier), Sprinkle on sheets and pillowcases, Add to bath |
Cedarwood | Calms the mind, supports deep sleep | Grounding, skin care | Diffuse, Topical (with carrier), Sprinkle on pillowcase |
Roman Chamomile | Helps with falling asleep, reduces insomnia | Skin care, stress relief | Diffuse, Topical (with carrier), Sprinkle on pillowcase, Add to bath |
Ylang Ylang | Promotes relaxation, aids in restful sleep | Mood enhancer, skin care | Diffuse, Topical (with carrier), Sprinkle on pillowcase, Add to bath |
Clary Sage | Helps to calm the nervous system, supports sleep | Hormone balance, stress relief | Diffuse, Topical (with carrier), Sprinkle on pillowcase |
Bergamot | Reduces stress and anxiety before bed, aids in sleep | Uplifting, skin care | Diffuse, Topical (with carrier), Sprinkle on pillowcase |
Marjoram | Soothes nervous tension, promotes restful sleep | Muscle pain relief, calming | Diffuse, Topical (with carrier), Sprinkle on pillowcase |
Frankincense | Promotes deep, restful sleep | Meditation, immune support | Diffuse, Topical (neat or with carrier), Sprinkle on pillowcase |
Vetiver | Helps with staying asleep, promotes deep sleep | Grounding, calming | Diffuse, Topical (with carrier), Sprinkle on pillowcase |
Sandalwood | Supports relaxation and peaceful sleep | Meditation, skin care | Diffuse, Topical (with carrier), Sprinkle on pillowcase |
Additional Applications for Promoting Sleep
Pillow Mist or Sprinkle:
Add a few drops of essential oil directly to your pillowcase, or place a cotton ball with oil inside the pillowcase. This gentle aroma can help calm your mind before sleep.Spray Bottles:
Use a spray bottle filled with water and a few drops of essential oil to lightly mist your bedding. It’s a quick and easy way to create a soothing atmosphere.Add to Bath:
Add essential oils to a warm bath before bedtime to enhance relaxation. The combination of warm water and calming scents can help prepare your body for rest.Diffuse:
Run an essential oil diffuser in your bedroom 30 minutes before bedtime. The steady release of scent into the air can create a peaceful environment that encourages sleep.Topical Application:
Apply diluted essential oils to your pulse points (wrists, temples, behind the ears) or the bottoms of your feet. This method allows the oils to absorb gently into the skin, promoting full-body relaxation. Always dilute with a carrier oil unless the oil is safe for neat use.
Here are essential oils under $20 that can be used to support hair growth or regrowth:
Essential Oil (click to view) | Hair Regrowth Benefits | Other Uses | Application Methods |
---|---|---|---|
Rosemary | Stimulates hair follicles, promotes hair growth | Memory support, muscle pain relief | Scalp Massage: Dilute with carrier oil, massage into scalp for 5-10 minutes, leave for 30 minutes to overnight, rinse. Shampoo Additive: Add a few drops to shampoo or conditioner. |
Peppermint | Increases blood circulation to the scalp, encourages hair growth | Energizing, headache relief | Scalp Massage: Dilute with carrier oil, apply to scalp, leave for 15-20 minutes, rinse. Scalp Rinse: Add a few drops to water and rinse through hair after washing. |
Lavender | Balances scalp oil production, promotes hair growth | Relaxation, sleep aid | Scalp Massage: Dilute with carrier oil, massage into scalp, leave for 30 minutes to overnight, rinse. Hair Mask: Combine with carrier oil and leave on hair for 1-2 hours before washing. |
Cedarwood | Balances oil production, promotes hair growth | Grounding, skin care | Scalp Massage: Dilute with carrier oil, massage into scalp, leave for 30 minutes to 1 hour, rinse. Shampoo Additive: Add a few drops to shampoo or conditioner. |
Clary Sage | Strengthens hair, promotes growth | Hormone balance, stress relief | Scalp Massage: Dilute with carrier oil, massage into scalp, leave for 30 minutes, rinse. Hot Oil Treatment: Combine with warm carrier oil, apply to scalp, cover with a warm towel, leave for 30 minutes, rinse. |
Tea Tree | Clears scalp buildup, promotes healthy hair growth | Antiseptic, acne treatment | Scalp Treatment: Dilute with carrier oil, apply to affected areas, leave for 15-30 minutes, rinse. Scalp Rinse: Add a few drops to water and rinse through hair after washing. |
Thyme | Stimulates scalp, promotes hair regrowth | Respiratory support, immune support | Scalp Massage: Dilute with carrier oil, massage into scalp, leave for 10-15 minutes, rinse. Shampoo Additive: Add a few drops to shampoo or conditioner. |
Ylang Ylang | Stimulates sebum production in the scalp, promotes hair growth | Mood enhancer, skin care | Scalp Massage: Dilute with carrier oil, massage into scalp, leave for 30 minutes, rinse. Hair Mask: Combine with carrier oil and leave on hair for 1-2 hours before washing. |
Geranium | Promotes hair growth by nourishing scalp | Skin care, hormone balance | Scalp Massage: Dilute with carrier oil, massage into scalp, leave for 30 minutes, rinse. Hot Oil Treatment: Combine with warm carrier oil, apply to scalp, cover with a warm towel, leave for 30 minutes, rinse. |
Lemongrass | Strengthens hair follicles, promotes hair growth | Pain relief, stress relief | Scalp Massage: Dilute with carrier oil, massage into scalp, leave for 15-30 minutes, rinse. Hair Rinse: Add a few drops to water and rinse through hair after washing. |
Application Methods:
- Scalp Massage: Mix 5-10 drops of essential oil with 1 tablespoon of carrier oil (like coconut or jojoba oil). Massage into the scalp for 5-10 minutes, focusing on affected areas. This helps increase blood circulation to the hair follicles and encourages hair growth. For best results, leave the mixture on for at least 30 minutes before rinsing.
- Shampoo/Conditioner Additive: Add a few drops of essential oil to your regular shampoo or conditioner. This method allows you to treat your hair and scalp with every wash.
- Scalp Rinse: Dilute a few drops of essential oil in water and use it as a final rinse after shampooing and conditioning. This can help to strengthen hair follicles and promote hair growth.
- Hot Oil Treatment: Warm 1-2 tablespoons of a carrier oil and mix with essential oils. Apply to the scalp and hair, cover with a warm towel, and leave on for 30 minutes to an hour before rinsing.
- Hair Mask: Mix essential oils with a carrier oil or conditioner and apply to hair as a mask. Leave it on for 1-2 hours, then wash as usual.
These essential oils are known for their hair regrowth properties and are available at affordable prices, making them suitable for regular hair care routines.

This is my beautiful moon essential oil diffuser, shown in the video above. It runs all day long and is simply gorgeous. It’s one of the best purchases I’ve ever made. See it here on Amazon.
Essential Oils Under $20 to Inhibit Hair Growth
Here are essential oils under $20 that can be used to inhibit hair growth or slow down regrowth:
Essential Oil (click to view) | Hair Growth Inhibition Benefits | Other Uses | Application Methods |
---|---|---|---|
Spearmint | May reduce hair growth by affecting hormone levels | Digestive support, skin care | Topical Application: Dilute with carrier oil, apply directly to areas where hair growth is to be inhibited. After Hair Removal: Apply immediately after waxing or shaving to help slow regrowth. |
Lavender | Can help reduce hair regrowth over time | Relaxation, sleep aid | Topical Application: Dilute with carrier oil, massage into the skin after hair removal. Hair Growth Reduction: Regular application may reduce hair growth over time. |
Tea Tree | Has antibacterial properties that can slow down regrowth | Acne treatment, antiseptic | Topical Application: Dilute with carrier oil, apply to freshly shaved or waxed areas to inhibit hair regrowth. Skin Care: Apply to prevent ingrown hairs and reduce hair density. |
Peppermint | May inhibit hair growth by affecting follicles | Energizing, headache relief | Topical Application: Dilute with carrier oil, apply directly to the skin after hair removal to slow regrowth. Cooling Effect: Helps to soothe the skin after shaving or waxing. |
Lemongrass | Can help reduce hair regrowth when applied regularly | Pain relief, stress relief | Topical Application: Dilute with carrier oil, apply to areas where hair growth is to be inhibited. Post-Shaving/Waxing: Use to soothe the skin and slow regrowth. |
Sage | May help slow hair growth with consistent use | Hormone balance, stress relief | Topical Application: Dilute with carrier oil, apply to skin after hair removal. Consistency: Regular use may reduce hair growth over time. |
Rosehip | Known to reduce hair growth, especially when combined with other oils | Skin rejuvenation, anti-aging | Topical Application: Dilute with carrier oil, massage into areas where you wish to inhibit hair growth. After Hair Removal: Apply regularly to slow down regrowth. |
Eucalyptus | Can slow hair regrowth by affecting the follicles | Respiratory support, skin care | Topical Application: Dilute with carrier oil, apply to skin after shaving or waxing to inhibit regrowth. Cooling Effect: Helps soothe the skin post-hair removal. |
Bergamot | May help reduce hair regrowth with regular use | Uplifting, skin care | Topical Application: Dilute with carrier oil, apply to the skin where hair growth is to be inhibited. Hair Reduction: Regular application post-shaving or waxing can reduce hair density. |
Chamomile | Known for its anti-inflammatory properties that can help slow hair growth | Calming, skin care | Topical Application: Dilute with carrier oil, massage into the skin after hair removal. Aftercare: Use regularly to maintain slower hair regrowth. |
Application Methods:
- Topical Application: Mix a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil (like jojoba or coconut oil) and apply directly to the skin in areas where you want to inhibit hair growth. Regular application is key to seeing results.
- After Hair Removal: Apply essential oils immediately after waxing, shaving, or other hair removal methods to slow down the regrowth process. The oils help soothe the skin and can reduce the density of regrown hair over time.
- Consistency: Regular use of these oils is necessary to observe any reduction in hair regrowth. It may take a few weeks to a few months to see noticeable changes.
These essential oils are known for their properties that may help inhibit hair growth when used consistently and are available at affordable prices.
At www.retiregal.com, we’re committed to providing valuable solutions. We include carefully chosen affiliate products and services and when you purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps us continue offering quality content. We only recommend solutions we truly believe in.

Some essential oils can both promote and inhibit hair growth, depending on their use:
-
Promoting Hair Growth: Oils like lavender, peppermint, and tea tree stimulate hair follicles and improve blood circulation when massaged into the scalp. This encourages hair growth by creating a healthier environment for follicles.
-
Inhibiting Hair Growth: The same oils can also help slow hair regrowth when applied after hair removal. Their soothing, anti-inflammatory properties reduce irritation and may disrupt the growth cycle, leading to slower regrowth.
The key is in the application method: stimulating the scalp promotes growth, while soothing the skin post-removal can inhibit it.
Essential Oils Under $20 for Stress and Anxiety Relief
These are the essential oils under $20 that can be used for stress and anxiety relief, along with their recommended application methods:
Essential Oil (click to view) | Stress Relief Benefits | Other Uses | Application Methods |
---|---|---|---|
Lavender | Calms the mind, reduces anxiety, promotes relaxation | Sleep aid, skin care | Diffuser: Add a few drops to a diffuser for calming aromatherapy. Topical: Dilute with a carrier oil, apply to temples, wrists, or behind ears. Bath: Add to a warm bath for full-body relaxation. |
Chamomile | Eases stress and tension, promotes tranquility | Sleep aid, skin care | Diffuser: Use in a diffuser to fill the room with calming scents. Topical: Dilute and massage onto pulse points or the back of the neck. Inhalation: Inhale directly from the bottle or a cotton ball for immediate relief. |
Frankincense | Reduces stress, enhances mood, promotes mental clarity | Immune support, skin care | Diffuser: Add to a diffuser for a grounding effect. Topical: Dilute and apply to pulse points, temples, or the chest. Meditation: Use during meditation to deepen relaxation and focus. |
Bergamot | Uplifts mood, reduces anxiety, eases tension | Skin care, deodorizing | Diffuser: Use in a diffuser to create a calming atmosphere. Topical: Dilute and apply to the wrists, neck, or chest. Inhalation: Inhale directly or add to a handkerchief for on-the-go stress relief. |
Ylang Ylang | Balances emotions, reduces stress, enhances mood | Hair care, skin care | Diffuser: Add to a diffuser for a sweet, calming aroma. Topical: Dilute and apply to pulse points or use in a massage oil. Bath: Add to a bath to relax both body and mind. |
Clary Sage | Alleviates stress, reduces anxiety, balances hormones | Hormonal balance, sleep aid | Diffuser: Use in a diffuser for stress-relieving aromatherapy. Topical: Dilute and apply to the wrists or temples. Inhalation: Inhale directly for quick stress relief. |
Patchouli | Grounding, reduces anxiety, promotes relaxation | Skin care, deodorizing | Diffuser: Add to a diffuser for a grounding effect. Topical: Dilute and apply to the feet, wrists, or back of the neck. Bath: Add to a warm bath for relaxation and stress relief. |
Cedarwood | Calms nerves, promotes emotional balance, relieves tension | Sleep aid, skin care | Diffuser: Use in a diffuser to create a calm environment. Topical: Dilute and apply to the chest or temples. Inhalation: Inhale directly or add to a cotton ball for immediate relief. |
Lemon | Uplifts mood, reduces stress, promotes mental clarity | Immune support, cleaning | Diffuser: Add to a diffuser for an uplifting scent. Topical: Dilute and apply to pulse points or the chest. Inhalation: Inhale directly for a quick mood boost. |
Orange | Uplifts mood, reduces anxiety, promotes relaxation | Deodorizing, immune support | Diffuser: Use in a diffuser for a bright, calming aroma. Topical: Dilute and apply to the wrists or behind the ears. Inhalation: Inhale directly from the bottle or a cotton ball for instant stress relief. |
Application Methods:
- Diffuser: Add a few drops of the essential oil to a diffuser to disperse the calming aroma throughout the room, creating a relaxing atmosphere.
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- Topical: Dilute essential oils with a carrier oil and apply to pulse points (wrists, temples, behind ears) or areas of tension (neck, chest) for direct stress relief.
- Inhalation: Inhale the essential oil directly from the bottle or apply to a cotton ball or handkerchief for immediate stress relief on the go.
- Bath: Add a few drops of essential oil to a warm bath to relax the body and mind simultaneously.
- Meditation: Incorporate essential oils into meditation practices to deepen relaxation and enhance focus.
Highlight on Lavender: A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Affective Disorders explored the effects of aromatherapy on anxiety. The findings reveal that various essential oils, especially lavender, significantly reduce anxiety levels. The study concludes that aromatherapy can offer substantial short-term relief from anxiety, whether used through inhalation or massage, making it a promising complementary approach for managing anxiety.
Essential Oils Under $20 for Household Cleaning
Essential oils under $20 that can be used for household cleaning, along with their primary cleaning benefits and application methods:
Essential Oil (click to view) | Primary Cleaning Benefits | Application Methods |
---|---|---|
Lemon | Degreases, disinfects, and deodorizes | All-Purpose Cleaner: Mix with water and vinegar. Surface Cleaner: Add to a spray bottle with water. Deodorizer: Add to baking soda for carpet or fridge. |
Tea Tree | Antimicrobial, antifungal, disinfectant | Mold Remover: Mix with water and vinegar. Disinfectant: Add to water and alcohol in a spray bottle. Laundry: Add to washing machine. |
Lavender | Antibacterial, deodorizes, freshens | Fabric Freshener: Add to water in a spray bottle. Surface Cleaner: Mix with water and vinegar. Vacuum Deodorizer: Add to baking soda for carpet. |
Peppermint | Antimicrobial, insect repellent, deodorizes | Surface Cleaner: Mix with water and vinegar. Insect Repellent: Add to water and spray. Air Freshener: Use in a diffuser. |
Eucalyptus | Antibacterial, disinfectant, deodorizes | Surface Cleaner: Add to water and vinegar. Air Freshener: Use in a diffuser. Laundry: Add to washing machine. |
Orange | Degreases, disinfects, deodorizes | All-Purpose Cleaner: Mix with water and vinegar. Grease Remover: Apply directly to sticky surfaces. Surface Cleaner: Add to spray bottle with water. |
Pine | Antibacterial, disinfectant, deodorizes | Floor Cleaner: Mix with water and castile soap. Surface Cleaner: Add to water and vinegar. Bathroom Cleaner: Use with baking soda. |
Rosemary | Antibacterial, antifungal, deodorizes | Surface Cleaner: Mix with water and vinegar. Laundry: Add to washing machine. Air Freshener: Use in a diffuser. |
Clove | Antimicrobial, antifungal, deodorizes | Mold Remover: Mix with water and vinegar. Disinfectant: Add to water and alcohol in a spray bottle. Air Freshener: Use in a diffuser. |
Grapefruit | Degreases, disinfects, deodorizes | All-Purpose Cleaner: Mix with water and vinegar. Surface Cleaner: Add to spray bottle with water. Air Freshener: Use in a diffuser. |
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Basic Cleaning Recipes:
- All-Purpose Cleaner:
- Ingredients: 1 cup water, 1 cup white vinegar, 15-20 drops of lemon, orange, or grapefruit essential oil.
- Instructions: Combine in a spray bottle and shake well. Use on countertops, sinks, and other surfaces.
- Surface Cleaner:
- Ingredients: 1 cup water, 10-15 drops of tea tree, eucalyptus, or peppermint essential oil.
- Instructions: Mix in a spray bottle and use to clean kitchen and bathroom surfaces.
- Mold Remover:
- Ingredients: 1 cup white vinegar, 10 drops of tea tree or clove essential oil.
- Instructions: Combine in a spray bottle, apply to moldy areas, and scrub with a brush.
- Fabric Freshener:
- Ingredients: 1 cup water, 10-15 drops of lavender or eucalyptus essential oil.
- Instructions: Mix in a spray bottle and spritz on fabrics, upholstery, and linens.
- Laundry Freshener:
- Ingredients: 5-10 drops of tea tree, eucalyptus, or lavender essential oil.
- Instructions: Add directly to the washing machine or a wool dryer ball.
- Floor Cleaner:
- Ingredients: 1 gallon of warm water, 1/4 cup liquid castile soap, 10 drops of pine or lemon essential oil.
- Instructions: Mix in a bucket and mop floors as usual.
- Grease Remover:
- Ingredients: 5-10 drops of orange or grapefruit essential oil.
- Instructions: Apply directly to greasy surfaces, let sit for a minute, and wipe clean.
These essential oils offer natural and effective ways to clean your home while avoiding harsh chemicals, making them a great choice for a healthier environment.
Your Favorites?
I hope this guide has helped you discover some affordable and effective options. If you’ve tried any of these oils or have your own favorites, I’d love to hear about your experiences.
What are your go-to oils for stress relief, hair care, or cleaning? Do you have any unique tips or recipes that work well for you?
Please share your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below!
2 responses
Its like you read my mind You appear to know so much about this like you wrote the book in it or something I think that you can do with a few pics to drive the message home a little bit but other than that this is fantastic blog A great read Ill certainly be back
Thank you 😀