Spring is on its Way!

Spring officially starts this month, but while I’ve still got my wooly hat on whilst walking the dog because it’s still blinking cold, I take great encouragement from the crocuses and other early flowers that are beginning to pop up. Not only do they herald an end to ridiculous energy bills, they announce that days will be getting longer and I can shove my wooly hat to the back of the cupboard for another season.

Just for now though, my wooly hat is staying put! However, there are some essential oils that may help us spring energetically into spring rather than groggily waking up from winter so we feel less like…

and more like…

Citrus Oils

Citrus oils such as Orange and Bergamot have long been thought of as uplighting aromas. Maybe it’s because these particular plants grow in warmer climates and we associate warmth with happiness, but a study in 2012 found that Lemon essential oil raised the levels of serotonin in the brain, indicating that the oil can go somewhere to helping us feel happier and more motivated. Don’t forget about the number one rule when using citrus oils that most of them can make skin sensitive to sunlight when used topically so always get the dilution correct.

Mint Oils

Peppermint and Spearmint oils have fresh, sharp aromas, which is probably why they are known for fighting fatigue and helping mental stimulation. Various studies have shown that these oils may help people suffering from fatigue brought on by chronic illness feel less tired.

Rosemary

One of my favourites! Great for hair regrowth and reducing inflammation, but also great to boost moods. What’s not to love about Rosemary’s aroma - fresh, herby and well, green! Bringing to mind spring growth and the beautiful outdoors. So it’s no wonder it’s associated with vitality. A recent study published in the International Journal of Neuroscience found that rosemary significantly enhanced the quality of memory and increased mental alertness.

How we can use these Uplifting Oils

These oils can be used topically in massage or via inhalation using a diffuser. Always consult your medical practictioner if you are on medication to make sure none of the oils interact with medication. Don’t forget to ask me to try out these oils as part of your session at Soul Aromatics or have a go at making my uplifting aroma blend for your home diffuser to boost energy and spring into spring!

Diffuser Scent #1: Spring Equinox

200ml of water

3 drops of Rosemary

3 drops of Grapefruit

2 drops of Spearmint

2 Lemon

Accreditations - Jonsnow and lamb gif from tenor. Scientific studies mentioned in the blog are from the following sources: Antidepressant-like effect of lemon essential oil is through a modulation in the levels of norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin in mice: Use of the tail suspension test (2012: sciencedirect.com. Cherng-Wei Hao, Wen-Sung Lai, Chi-Tang Ho, Lee-Yan Sheen) Comparing the Effect of Aromatherapy with Peppermint and Lavender Essential Oils on Fatigue of Cardiac Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial (2021: hindawi.com Somayeh Mahdavikian,1Masoud Fallahi,2and Alireza Khatony)