For many, when December celebrations and wintertime are mentioned, one of the first things that comes to mind are the scents of the season. It’s in the air… The “woodsy” scents used in spiritual ceremonies and holiday trees. The “warm and spicy” scents of pies and cookies. The “minty” scents of candies and sweets.
But these scents aren’t just for decoration, air fresheners or foods; in the form of essential oils, scents have many health and wellness benefits! Here are a few of our favorites and the benefits they offer. Inhale deeply. It’s about to smell amazing…
Frankincense Essential Oil
Frankincense is an antiseptic and an anti-inflammatory for muscles and arthritis. Some traditions incorporate it into prayer, and it is also found in many skin products to help soothe dry, sensitive and sun-damaged skin.
Frankincense essential oil can be described as smelling earthy, woodsy, piney, or balsamic, as well as being sweet and citrusy. Overall, it’s a complex and wonderfully balanced aroma with many health benefits.Â
Myrrh Essential Oil
Myrrh improves digestion, immunity and has been used to treat coughs and infection. It eases inflammation and promotes skin repair so it can be used for damaged skin and is perfect for dry scalp.
Myrrh essential oil can be described as woodsy, warm, aromatic and pungent, and slightly medicinal. Â
Clove Essential Oil
Clove is a popular tooth-pain remedy, a strong antiseptic, and aids the digestive system. It has also been used in small doses to overcome nervousness, mental fatigue or poor memory.
Clove essential oil is often described as being spicy and sweet, but with a warm and woodsy foundation.
Cinnamon Essential Oil
Cinnamon can improve appetite and seems to aid in digestion. It is a powerful antioxidant and can also be used to treat head lice. The scent of cinnamon is used for insomnia and, in small amounts, for skin care to treat ringworm and to prevent scarring.
Cinnamon essential oil can be described as having a potent, fragrant, warm-spicy, sweet and penetrating scent.
Orange Essential Oil
Orange is an antiseptic that has been used to treat flu, colds, congested lymph, indigestion and high blood pressure. It is also used for anxiety, depression and nervous tension.
Orange essential oil smells citrusy and sweet. Its aroma is similar to that of orange peels, but it typically smells sweeter and is more concentrated.
Peppermint Essential Oil
Inhaling peppermint can clear sinuses and lung congestion. It can alleviate nausea, ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome, and is popular as a tension headache treatment.
Peppermint essential oil smells intensely minty. Its aroma is reminiscent of peppermint candies, but it is more concentrated and is more intense in fragrance than spearmint essential oil.
Spruce Essential Oil
The fresh scent of spruce is stimulating and the essential oil is used to treat muscle spasms, adrenal gland efficiencies and fatigue.
Spruce essential oil has a medium-strength woodsy, earthy, and evergreen aroma.
Pine Essential Oil
Pine is very antiseptic and often using in cleaning solutions. The fragrance is also used to treat anxiety and bring peacefulness.
Pine essential oil has a strong, fresh, woodsy, balsamic, and clean aroma.Â
Thieves Essential Oil Blend (Young Living)
Thieves is a blend of clove, lemon, cinnamon, eucalyptus and rosemary. Combined, they have powerful antiseptic properties and are used to clean everything from the kitchen floor to purifying the air.
Thieves essential oil blend smells spicy and earthy.
Here at Thrive, we’re huge proponents of incorporating essential oils into your self-care routine. Interested in trying these scents? Talk with your Thrive massage therapist when you book your next massage.