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Summertime Favorites: Essential Oils You Can’t Do Without!
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Glorious summertime! You are probably looking for ways to spend more time outside now that the days are long and the nights are warm. You might use plenty of essential oils in the winter months to warm and soothe the body, as well as to freshen up the air in the home that gets so stale in the winter. Did you know that there are also a few essential oils that just seem to go nod-in-hand with summer? It’s true!
Essential oils not only smell heavenly but they can help you sleep better, ease muscle pain, relax, improve your skin and digestion and even keep bugs away! We have made a list of a few summertime favorite scents that you will turn to again and again this summer, so stock up!
Remember to never apply essential oils directly to the skin as they can irritate and burn. Dilute with a carrier oil such as jojoba, coconut or olive oil before applying to the skin. If you decide to take essential oils internally, you should never take more than two drops in a 24 hour period. If you are taking any type of medication or if you are under a doctor’s care, consult with your physician before consuming or using essential oils.
One last note: Be sure to buy quality essential oils from a reputable company. Many cheap imports are nothing more than some olive oil or mineral oil with a few drops of synthetic fragrance. If the price sounds too good to be true, you should pass.
OK, now on to our favorite summertime essential oils!
1. Grapefruit
It makes your mouth water just reading the word, doesn’t it? Grapefruit essential oil is terrific for killing acne because of its natural antibacterial and antiseptic compounds. This oil is also the one to turn to when you have jet lag after that wonderful summer vacation. It really boosts concentration power and makes you feel super energized!
If your dog or cat is picking up fleas, it’s time to turn on the grapefruit power. Humans love the scent of citrus, but fleas and ticks do not! Put a few drops of grapefruit essential oil in your pet shampoo bottle (use about two drops for every eight ounces of shampoo), shake a bit to mix and say bye-bye to fleas and ticks. If you really love the scent of grapefruit, you can also add this to your favorite household cleaners for some antibacterial muscle as well as a wonderful scent that makes a nice change from the usual lemon.
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2. Lime
You are most likely already thinking about some tequila and salt! Lime oil actually comes from the peel of the lime and not the fruit itself. There is something about the scent of lime that puts you in a good mood. Who can resist smiling when the air is filled with the delicious scent of lime?
Lime has many beneficial qualities. It’s naturally antibacterial, antiviral, antiseptic and restorative. Lime is traditionally used to treat a weakened immune system and digestive support, but it also can’t be beat for improving your mood. Lime helps to remove stagnant energies such as despair, grief and apathy. This oil goes well with the heart center, helping you to clear out trapped emotions and allowing you to open yourself up to life once more. Diffuse some lime essential oil into the air to help relieve highly stressful situations. Lime oil can lower your blood pressure just by smelling it.
You can also add one drop of lime essential oil into a glass of water for some extra relief and immune-boosting power. If you have been feeling down in the dumps despite the summer weather, this is the essential oil for you.
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3. Calendula
Sometimes called marigold, this earthy-smelling flower is perfect for those with sensitive skin who find other oils or lotions irritating. Calendula flower has anti-inflammatory, astringent, antifungal and antibacterial compounds that help small wounds, minor cuts and scratches, as well as itching bug bites or stings heal quickly.
You can put two drops of calendula essential oil in a tablespoon of olive oil or coconut oil and apply this to almost all skin irritations and minor skin problems. This flower even works well for those with psoriasis or eczema! For a super all-over skin tonic, put two or three drops in a bath and soak away those itchy, burning skin problems. This is a great choice for those with small children as it will not harm or irritate their sensitive skin.
Always dilute with a carrier oil, and apply to a small test area to be certain it won’t bother delicate skin.
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4. Lavender
This one must be the most versatile of all oils! Everyone loves the relaxing scent of lavender, but not many people know that it is good for so much more than just a relaxing nighttime tonic. If you have spent a back-breaking day in the garden, or if you plan on it, this is the oil for you! Put two or three drops of lavender essential oil into your bath and soak away those aches and pains. You can also add a cup or two of Epsom salts if you like.
Lavender is another oil that has antibacterial compounds, so it is perfect for stopping or treating acne. Studies in France have shown that applying some lavender essential oil to a minor skin burn can stop the pain almost instantly and heals many burns without scarring. Stop a headache by putting a few drops of lavender oil on a clean cloth and placing it over the forehead. You can also massage a drop or two into your temples or the back of the neck. There are so many uses for lavender that we can’t possibly list them all here. Keep plenty on hand!
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5. Lemon
This is one of the all-time favorites, hands down! It might be summer, but chances are you still have to go to work. Give your brain an instant pick-me-up by diffusing some lemon essential oil in the air. You can also add just a drop or two to your favorite liquid soap or shampoo for a morning wake-up shower! Lemon oil will also soften callouses, which is great for those sandal-wearing feet.
Lemon essential oil removes stains from fabric, including grass and grease stains. Stop bugs from bugging you by putting about 6 drops of lemon essential oil and 8 ounces of water in a spray bottle. Shake well, and then spray yourself and your clothing so bugs will bug off! (Avoid your eyes and face.) If you wash your hand but they still smell like garlic or fish, simply put one drop of this essential oil on your hands and rub them together. This works well for plastic dishes or even glassware that seems to retain odors. You can put a few drops into the offending container and then add some hot water. Swish it around and then let it sit for a few hours. Wash and rinse well. You can also add one drop of lemon essential oil to a glass of water for an instantly refreshing lemonade-type drink that requires no sugar.
Last but not least, lemon essential oil is the perfect oil if you have small children who end up dropping gum on your carpet or car upholstery, take their crayons to the walls or get their hands covered in sticky gunk. Lemon essential oil will remove anything sticky or gooey that your kids can dream up.
SEE ALSO: The Truth about Essential Oils No One Wants to Tell You
There are hundreds of essential oils and this list barely scratches the surface. For summertime fun and comfort, however, these five oils are a must for every household. Have a great summer!
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