Reduce stress, soothe yourself to sleep and decrease headaches with the right scent.
One of the best things about walking into a spa is the smell.
The aroma is so calming, you could feel yourself relax on the spot.
Getty Images
Thank the relaxing properties of certain scents for your simmer-down response.
Likewise, have you ever felt particularly perky after smelling peppermint or citrus?
That’s scent at work.
Though there are many types of essential oils, some are more widely known and used.
You’ve likely never heard of before.
Common oils include lavender, sage, rosemary and tea tree oil.
Less commonly known may be arborvitae, copaiba and helichrysum oils.
What Are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are compounds extracted from plants through a process of distillation.
These oils have become popular in the holistic wellness industry for their specific health benefits and healing properties.
However, essential oils may be beneficial for more than just relaxation and stress relief.
Higher levels of inflammation can stymie the immune system.
Plus, “Reduced inflammation also helps to promote gut health,” says Cole.
May Aid in Wound Healing
Certain essential oils have anti-inflammatory or antimicrobial properties.
Do not ingest essential oils; they are not safe to consume.
One notable essential oil fornausea and digestion is ginger.
First, mix the essential oil with a carrier oil to dilute it.
Good options for carrier oils include coconut, jojoba or almond oil.
Essential oil itself is potent, and it might cause irritation if applied directly on your skin.
When diluting your essential oil, don’t use water.
The right ratio of essential oil to carrier oil depends on the strength desired.
you might use three to five drops of essential oil per 100 milliliters of water.
Here’s a handy guide.
Or keep a lavender hand cream bedside to hydrate dry hands while helping soothe you to sleep.
Plus, peppermint is refreshing and stimulating.
Talk about minty jolt!
you might apply it topically when diluted, or diffuse it, if you like the smell.
Addtea tree oilto your shampoo to fight dandruff and to get rid of product buildup on your scalp.
For the safest use, never ingest essential oils or apply them directly on your skin.
Dilute first with a carrier oil or add toa diffuserto make your room smell nice.
Now that’s relaxing, isn’t it?
