When I thought about improving my life, whether I was thinking about boosting my productivity, mood, or immune system, aromatherapy was not the first tool I thought of, but I have recently learned that maybe it should have been. Smell is the strongest of the senses and is one of the best ways to influence brain activity.
Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of aromatic substances for holistic healing with the aim of improving a person’s health or mood.
Aromatherapy is utilized two ways:
Inhalation - the essential oils evaporate into the air using a diffuser container, spray, or oil droplets, or breathed in, for example, in a steam bath - or
Topical application - massage oils, and bath and skin care products are absorbed through the skin.
As I have learned more about aromatherapy and its many uses, I wanted to share with you my top 7 list of scents recommended for boosting your mood, immune system, and productivity.
1. Lemon. Lemon essential oils retain the powerful toxin fighting properties of its parent fruit, including antiviral and antibacterial properties that can help fight sore throats and colds. Lemon is a great oil to use for detoxification of the body because of the abundance of vitamins and minerals it contains. In addition to aiding the immune system, lemon can also be used to improve mood and sharpen your focus. This scent promotes concentration and has calming and clarifying properties that are helpful when you're feeling depressed, angry, anxious or run down.
2. Lavender. This scent has calming properties that help control emotional stress. Lavender has a
soothing effect on nerves and can relieve nervous tension and depression as well as treat headaches and migraines. Lavender also has anti-viral, anti-microbial, and anti-bacterial properties that make it a great addition to our body's natural defense system.
3. Jasmine. Jasmine is commonly used as an antidepressant because of its uplifting capabilities that produce a feeling of confidence, optimism and revitalized energy. Jasmine essential oil has been described as an aphrodisiac and a stimulant linked to increased alertness.
4. Rosemary. Rosemary is found to promote improved memory retention and has stimulating properties that fight physical exhaustion, headaches and mental fatigue. Rosemary can also be used topically to relieve muscular aches and pains. Rosemary is often used to support the circulatory and nervous systems.
5. Cinnamon. This scent can help fight mental fatigue as well as improve concentration and focus. Cinnamon essential oil is known as a natural remedy for ailments from cough and colds to constipation. It can be used to stimulate circulation, reduce stress, relieve pain, fight off infections, improve digestion, and protect against insects.
6. Peppermint. Peppermint oil is an energy booster. This scent invigorates the mind, promotes concentration and stimulates clear thinking. Peppermint oil is used to liven the senses and promote a feeling of energy. Also, peppermint oil vapor is known to reduce the frequency, duration, and severity of nausea and vomiting.
7. Eucalyptus. Eucalyptus is a wonderful decongestant, and it is often used in natural cold and flu remedies. It can help clear your respiratory tract and prevent infection. Inhaling eucalyptus oil helps fight the bacteria that cause infections like strep, tuberculosis, and MRSA.
If you are looking for a natural way to help enhance your mood, improve your productivity, and boost your immune system, essential oils may be your answer!
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