What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the words, “essential oils?” You probably think of busy moms or free-spirited naturopaths, right? Well, think again. Believe it or not, essential oils are useful for everyday guys, too. Whether you’re interested in the healing effects of aromatherapy or exploring the practical applications of essential oils, here’s why they’re worth trying out at home.
1. Boost Your Mood with Lemon and Bergamot Oils
Does somebody have a case of the Mondays? There’s no reason to be ashamed of having a bad day. But if you’d like to try boosting your mood, reach for a bottle of lemon or bergamot essential oils.
Studies show that the brain exerts serotonin and dopamine to stabilize your mood when you inhale essential oils made of citrus peels. When you’re down, simply add a few drops of one of these oils to a diffuser. If you’re in a hurry, just take a big sniff straight from the bottle.
2. Decompress with Lavender and Peppermint Oils
Need to unwind after a long, hard day? Peppermint oil is famous for relieving headaches and releasing tension. Lavender is a favorite for reducing stressful feelings and promoting better sleep. To take advantage of these essential oils destressing properties, you can add several drops to a warm bath. Alternatively, try diluting a drop or two in coconut oil and applying the mixture to your temples.
3. Treat Cuts with Tea Tree Oil
Getting nicked while shaving happens to the best of us. Help the cut heal faster by combining a drop of tea tree oil with a dollop of wound ointment cream. Tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties.
You can use it for healing wounds, fighting dandruff, treating acne, and addressing other skin conditions. Healthline recommends that you dilute tea tree oil in a 1:12 ratio with a carrier such as coconut or olive oil before applying it to your skin.
4. Get Over a Cold with Eucalyptus Oil
Even tough guys catch colds every once in a while. Eucalyptus oil is believed to alleviate cold symptoms like coughing, stuffy sinuses, headache, or a runny nose. Prepare yourself a steam bath by adding a few drops to a bowl, pouring in boiling water, placing a towel over your head with your nose above the bowl, and breathing in deeply.
5. Freshen Your Space with Sandalwood and Vetiver Oils
Is your man cave smelling a little too funky? The woody musk of sandalwood or the earthy scent of vetiver can help freshen the air without making the place smell like a perfume counter. Make your own room spray by adding about 30 drops of either of these essential oils to a spray bottle.
Fill the bottle halfway with witch hazel, top it off with distilled water, then shake it vigorously to combine everything. Spritz your space with these masculine aromas anytime it needs freshening up.
Essential oils are a worthy addition to your medicine cabinet or cleaning supply closet. However, remember to see a doctor for ongoing medical problems, rather than simply relying on oils to try to heal yourself. Never ingest essential oil or apply it to your skin without diluting it first. With these rules in place, have fun exploring the wide world of oils.