Winter Wellness: Top Essential Oils for Health and Healing
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Eucalyptus, peppermint, cinnamon, and oregano. What do these plants have in common? In oil form, they are winter wellness powerhouses.
During the cold, dry winter months, our bodies can experience increased stress, fatigue, and susceptibility to illness. Essential oils, with their natural healing properties, can provide much-needed relief and support for both physical and emotional wellness. These oils can help ease respiratory discomfort, enhance immunity, and lift your spirits during the darker months.
Here’s a look at the specific benefits of each, and how to use them for optimal results.
Oregano Essential Oil
Oregano oil is one of the most potent antimicrobial oils available, making it a perfect companion during the winter months when colds, flu, and other infections are rampant. Its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties can help strengthen your immune system, preventing illness.
How to Use:
Immune Support Diffusion: Diffuse oregano oil to help purify the air and support respiratory health.
Topical Use: Dilute oregano oil with a carrier oil and apply to the bottoms of the feet to help fight off infections.
Natural Antibiotic: Ingest diluted oregano oil (only under guidance from a healthcare provider) as a natural way to support your body’s defenses during flu season.
Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Eucalyptus oil is renowned for its ability to support respiratory health. – It’s what you smell when using vapor rub. – Eucalyptus is antiseptic and anti-inflammatory making it ideal for calming a sore throat or easing sinus congestion.
How to Use:
Diffusion: Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a diffuser to purify the air and open up your airways.
Steam Inhalation: For quick relief from congestion, add a couple of drops to hot water, cover your head with a towel, and inhale the steam for a few minutes.
Topical Use: Mix with a carrier oil and apply to the chest, throat, or under the nose to help clear up nasal congestion.
Peppermint Essential Oil
The menthol in peppermint helps relax muscles and soothe tension. Its invigorating scent also boosts energy and mental clarity, helping to fight the winter blues.
How to Use:
Diffusion: Diffusing peppermint oil in your home can help refresh your mind and clear brain fog, especially during short, gray winter days.
Topical Use: Apply diluted peppermint oil to your temples and the back of your neck for relief from headaches or muscle tension.
Bath Soak: Add a few drops of peppermint oil to your bath to rejuvenate your senses and promote muscle relaxation.
Cinnamon Essential Oil
Cinnamon oil offers a warm, spicy fragrance that’s comforting during the winter months. It has natural antimicrobial properties that can help protect against germs and viruses, which are more prevalent in cold weather. Cinnamon is also known for boosting circulation, which is helpful when the weather is cold and your body needs extra warmth.
How to Use:
Diffusion: A few drops of cinnamon oil in a diffuser can help create a warm, cozy atmosphere while purifying the air.
Topical Use: Dilute cinnamon oil with a carrier oil and massage it into sore muscles or joints to stimulate circulation.
Immunity Boosting Tea: Add a drop of cinnamon oil to your tea (be sure it’s diluted properly) to support your immune system.
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Winter Wellness: Top Essential Oils for Health and Healing was originally published on elev8.com
