A Simplified Guide to DIY Aromatherapy

Eucalyptus oil is anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, decongestant, deodorant, antiseptic, antibacterial, and stimulating to the nervous system. As such, it is a “lifting” herb that sharpens mental faculties and creates a sense of alertness while also refreshing and cleansing the body. Common applications of Eucalyptus include treatment of respiratory conditions like cough, colds, and asthma. Try dotting the oil on the chest or using it in a hot bath when congested.

It’s no secret that the smell of lavender has a calming effect on the body, but did you know that lavender enhances blood circulation and can be used to treat respiratory problems? New research suggests that taking a few long, slow inhales of lavender essential oil can help ameliorate symptoms of hay fever– including itching, watery eyes and sneezing. Used topically, lavender can also help calm nervous tension and aid sleep. Try massaging a few drops into the wrists and on temples before bedtime.

Anise oil can be slightly toxic when used in large quantities, so be sure to dilute it with a gentle carrier oil like castor or sesame. Once diluted, in about a 3 to 1 ratio (three drops carrier oil for every one drop anise) anise oil can be used to calm the body or used in a diffuser to help relieve bronchitis or flu-like symptoms. For a calming topical application, try rubbing a few drops of diluted oil onto the feet or wrists.

Lemon is nature’s most “clean” scent– one that can also help improve mental clarity and focus. Lemon oil is naturally antibacterial and antimicrobial, too, and is gentle enough to be applied to cuts, scrapes, and other shallow wounds. If you’re feeling distracted or are in need of mental uplift, try rubbing a few drops on the neck, shoulders, and chest.

“Peeling an orange” is known as a natural form of stress relief because the smell of citrus has been proven to calm the nervous system. While grapefruit and lemon oil may also suffice, nothing promotes stress relief quite like the traditional smell of oranges, which are associated with summer, warm weather, and more distantly: the sun. For maximum efficacy, use it as a massage oil. You can also make a natural room refresher by diluting a 10-20 drops of orange oil in a spray bottle of water.

Vanilla is said to be the scent of romance and works well when dabbed on the wrists, behind the ears, and– for the more daring among us– on décolletage.

The smell of cedar wood evokes primal memories of pastoral woodlands and old-growth forests, so it makes sense that cedar oil can be used to “promote good vibes”. Cedar is said to encourage communality, friendship, and reciprocity– which is often why cedar incense are burned to promote personal growth and positivity after trauma or strife– the oil has the same application. (The smell of cedar is also a lovely, neutral fragrance that can be applied just like cologne.)

Peppermint can be used to quell anxiety and tame allergy symptoms, but it’s most potent application is preventing nausea. Those who experience motion sickness or nausea related to illness benefit from taking a few slow, soothing inhales of peppermint steam, which can be created by adding a few drops of peppermint oil to a bowl of hot water. For a more powerful treatment, try creating a “tent” over the bowl by draping a towel over the head and leaning over the bowl (this doubles as a treatment for congestion, as peppermint opens up the nasal passages, ala Vicks VapoRub).

Sweet Almond Oil makes an excellent carrier oil for any of the previous essential oils named as it is both rich in Vitamin E and gentle enough to be used all over the body– including on hair, face, and nails. Sweet Almond Oil is also hypoallergenic, and it penetrates the skin easily, making for an ideal vehicle for use on sensitive skin. (GC Tip: Sweet Almond Oil can also be used to relieve dark circles under the eyes. Dab a few drops into the eye contours before going to bed and you’ll see a difference in about two weeks.)