Summertime is a season of warmth, outdoor activities, and vibrant energy. It's also the perfect time to harness the power of essential oils. Whether you're a newcomer to the world of essential oils or an enthusiast, understanding their significance during summer can enhance your seasonal experiences and well-being.
Importance of Essential Oils During Summer
1. Natural Cooling & Soothing Effects
Peppermint, Eucalyptus, and Spearmint are known for their cooling properties due to the presence of specific compounds that interact with our sensory receptors and nervous system:
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Peppermint Oil: It contains menthol, which triggers the cold-sensitive receptors in our skin. When applied or inhaled, it creates a cooling sensation by stimulating these receptors. It can activate TRPM8 receptors, responsible for sensing cold temperatures, providing a refreshing feeling.
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Eucalyptus Oil: Eucalyptus contains a compound called 1,8-cineole (or eucalyptol), which exhibits a cooling effect. When applied topically or inhaled, it stimulates receptors in the nasal passages, creating a perception of coolness and ease of breathing, making it great for combating stuffiness in hot weather.
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Spearmint Oil: Similar to peppermint, spearmint also contains menthol but in smaller amounts. It works in a similar manner by activating cold-sensitive receptors, providing a cooling sensation.
The cooling sensation these oils produce can offer relief in hot weather by helping to lower body temperature through various mechanisms:
2. After-Sun Care
Lavender and Chamomile are renowned for their soothing and calming properties, making them excellent choices for addressing sun-exposed skin:
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Lavender Oil: It possesses anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and calming properties. When applied to sun-exposed skin, it can help alleviate redness, irritation, and minor burns caused by sun exposure. Its anti-inflammatory nature can assist in reducing swelling and soothing the skin. Lavender oil is often used in after-sun products due to its ability to promote skin healing.
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Chamomile Oil: Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it beneficial for soothing sunburns and irritated skin. It helps in reducing redness, soothing itchiness, and calming the skin. Chamomile oil is often used in skincare products aimed at sensitive or sun-damaged skin due to its gentle and soothing effects.
These oils can be used in several ways to provide relief for sun-exposed skin such as diluted topical application or cool compress.
3. Repelling Pests Naturally
Citronella, Lemongrass, and Tea Tree Oil are known for their insect-repelling properties, making them popular natural alternatives to synthetic insect repellents:
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Citronella Oil: Derived from various species of the lemongrass plant, citronella is a well-known natural insect repellent. It's particularly effective against mosquitoes. Its strong scent masks the odors that attract mosquitoes, making it harder for them to locate and bite you. It's commonly used in candles, sprays, and lotions as an outdoor insect deterrent.
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Lemongrass Oil: Its strong citrus scent helps deter mosquitoes, flies, and other insects. It's often used in sprays, diffusers, or topically when diluted with a carrier oil.
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Tea Tree Oil: While tea tree oil is primarily known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, it also has insect-repelling qualities. It's particularly effective against certain types of ants and can be used as a natural insect deterrent when mixed with other oils or used in homemade repellent sprays.
4. Mood Enhance & Stress Relief
Citrus oils such as Lemon, Orange, and Grapefruit are renowned for their invigorating and mood-enhancing properties, making them excellent choices to uplift mood and energy, particularly during the summer months:
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Lemon Oil: Known for its fresh, clean scent, lemon oil is energising and can help clear the mind. Its aroma is often associated with feelings of freshness and cleanliness, which can contribute to a more uplifting mood. Lemon oil is believed to promote mental clarity and alertness.
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Orange Oil: The sweet and tangy scent of orange oil is known to have mood-lifting and energising effects. It's often used in aromatherapy to reduce stress and anxiety while promoting a sense of happiness and relaxation. Its scent is refreshing and can create a positive atmosphere.
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Grapefruit Oil: Grapefruit oil has a bright, citrusy aroma that is both invigorating and uplifting. Its stimulating properties can help increase energy levels and promote feelings of optimism. It's also believed to have mood-balancing effects.
During the Summer, when people often seek a refreshing and revitalising atmosphere, these citrus oils can be particularly beneficial. Their bright and cheerful scents can help combat fatigue, boost energy levels, and evoke feelings of positivity and vitality, aligning well with the vibrant nature of the season.
Essential oils offer a natural and versatile way to enhance your Summer experience. Whether you're seeking relief from the heat, repelling insects, boosting your mood, or supporting your overall wellness, these oils can become your go-to companions during the sunny months. Embrace the power of nature and enjoy a vibrant and refreshing summer with essential oils by your side.
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Author: Georgia Doherty
Georgia oversees the marketing campaigns, company's social media platforms, helps coordinate brand collaborations, is a leader for ECO.'s content creation + DIY recipes and manages ECO.'s affiliate program. She is a qualified Beauty Therapist with extensive Dermal Therapy qualifications, a Diploma in Training Design & Development with a Aromatherapy Practitioner Certificate. Georgia is passionate about leading a happy & healthy life and helping educate those around her.
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