Winter can be a beautiful and contemplative season. The cold weather and extended hours of darkness make it a great time to time indoors and enjoy some quiet time.
Unfortunately, the cold weather and lack of sunshine tend to create a whole unique set of issues, from triggering SAD symptoms and mood fluctuations to wreaking havoc on the skin. This is also the time when colds, flu, and other seasonal illnesses are on the rise. One way to combat many of these issues is by using essential oils for winter wellness.
While all essential oils have therapeutic properties, some oils have properties that are especially beneficial during the winter season. The best essential oils for winter are those that have sweet, warming scents. Using the essential oils listed below in your diffuser will help to minimize the downsides of winter so you can sit back and enjoy the beauty of the season.
Top Essential Oils for Winter Wellness
1. Frankincense
Often referred to as the ‘king of all oils’, frankincense contains a blend of monoterpenes that get metabolized quickly in the body. This makes frankincense a great oil to use when you want to see results quickly.
Frankincense essential oil has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Putting a few drops in your diffuser will help boost your immune system and make you less susceptible to dreaded winter illnesses such as the cold and flu.
Frankincense also helps support the nervous system and taps into our relaxation response so you feel less anxious and depressed. This is one of the most effective oils for promoting a feeling of peace, satisfaction and overall wellness during winter.
2. Peppermint
Peppermint is one of the most energizing and invigorating oils in aromatherapy. Inhaling this oil will keep you energized, which is perfect for perking you up during the dark, dreary winter season. Definitely keep peppermint essential oil handy and diffuse it regularly during winter if you struggle with SAD symptoms at this time. For a quick pick-me-up, put a few drops on a tissue or handkerchief and inhale.
What makes peppermint oil particularly great to use in winter is that it boosts both, your mental and physical help. It helps clear your mind and lift your spirits. It also helps ease congestion brought on by the cold and flu, both of which are common in winter.
If you’re prone to getting a cold or flu or feeling down during winter, keep a bottle of peppermint oil in your purse at all times. You’ll be glad you have it handy whenever you need quick congestion relief or a quick boost of energy. Just open the bottle and inhale.
3. Clove
Clove essential oil has a warming and invigorating aroma, which helps counteract the lethargic feeling that winter brings. It has an uplifting effect on the mood and promotes mental clarity and focus. Inhaling the aroma of clove oil will lift you up out of the doldrums and help you feel more focused and energetic.
Clove essential oil also has powerful healing and disinfectant properties, making it a versatile oil to use in winter.
Mix few drops of clove oil with a carrier oil and massage gently over the bottom of your feet to get the benefits of clove oil in winter.
4. Ginger
The woody, spicy, earthy aroma of ginger essential oil is warming and energizing. It is one of the best essential oils for managing sudden mood fluctuations that are frequently seen in winter, especially among those who are susceptible to SAD symptoms. Inhaling the aroma of this oil also lifts your spirits and clears mental fog so you can stay more focused and get things done.
Need help waking up and staying focused on cold winter mornings? Add a drop of organic ginger essential oil to your cup of tea or breakfast cereal to get its benefits.
5. Lemon
Lemon essential oil is a must-have during winter for several reasons.
It’s crisp, citrusy aroma is refreshing and uplifting. Adding a few drops of lemon oil to your diffuser will keep you feeling cheerful and invigorated throughout the day. Diffuse it in your office if you need help staying focused.
The immune-boosting property of lemon essential oil is another reason why it is so popular during winter. Diffusing this oil at home will help boost your immune system so you are less susceptible to nasty cold and flu symptoms.
The cleansing and disinfecting properties of lemon oil are well known. It cleans and disinfects the air as well as all surfaces. Fill a spray bottle with water. Add a few drops of lemon oil to this and use this to clean and disinfect tables, countertops, and other surfaces.
6. Cinnamon bark
Cinnamon bark essential oil also has an intense warming, invigorating aroma that is both exotic and homely. It is reminiscent of baking all kinds of goodies during the Holiday season.
Diffusing this oil during winter is comforting and uplifting. It alleviates feelings of stress and promotes relaxation, making it easier for you to get a more restful night’s sleep. This is so important during winter. A good night’s sleep is key to staying energetic, uplifted and focused during the day.
Add a drop or two of cinnamon essential oil to your morning coffee or oatmeal for a wintry treat that’s both delicious and beneficial.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to serve as medical advice. Please consult your doctor before using any natural medication or if you experience any unusual symptoms. See Full Disclaimer here.
