Essential Oils to Boost Your Energy Levels

Like many of you lovely readers, I’m a pretty busy gal. If you read my recent blog post about caffeine’s effects on the body, then you’ll know how surprised I was by my findings (and that I won’t be giving up my morning cup of joe anytime soon). However, I don’t like to rely on copious amounts of coffee to stay energized all day long, which is why I love finding ways to naturally boost my energy levels.

Enter essential oils. They’re concentrated extracts pulled from plants, and they’re game changers when it comes to using aromatherapy to keep me moving. You’ll find that the oils I mention in this article have all sorts of energy-inducing benefits, as some are known to boost productivity while others fight off fatigue and increase athletic performance (so we can finally fit in that extra spin class!).

How Essential Oils Are Used

There are a few different ways to reap the benefits of essential oils:

1. You can “directly inhale” essential oils.

You can directly inhale your essential oils in different ways. There are individual inhalers where you put a few drops of essential oils in hot water, or you can make DIY “on-the-go” inhalers that you put right to your nose. Additionally, if the essential oil is safe for skin (some aren’t!), you can put a few drops in your palms, cover your face with your hands, and breathe deeply.

2. You can “indirectly inhale” essential oils.

This is my personal favorite. I use a diffuser to spread the scent of essential oils through the air, and then I breathe it in that way. If you don’t have a diffuser, you can put a few drops on a tissue, and the scent will easily spread throughout your space.

3. You can massage essential oils into your skin.

I have pretty sensitive skin, so I avoid this one. However, lots of essential oil lovers will dilute essential oils by mixing them with a carrier oil like coconut oil. They’ll then pair that with a nice massage. (Psst! Do a “patch test” before slathering on an essential oil mixture. It’s a good way to test if you’re allergic to any ingredient or tell if the oil isn’t diluted enough, as a strong concentration can sting your skin.)

When it comes to ingesting essential oils (some people add it to their water), I say it’s a no-go. Even small amounts can be poisonous in certain cases, and essential oils are known for burning the lining of the mouth and esophagus. While some people swear by this method, I’m not a big fan.

The Best Essential Oils for Energy

Alright, so which energizing essential oils can provide us with that extra spark when we’re feeling fatigued? Here’s a quick list to help you get started on your journey to a naturally energized day.

Get Better Sleep

Let’s start with the root of the problem. A lot of us don’t get enough sleep. Or, if we do, spend a lot of time tucked in bed, we’re still struggling to get quality shuteye. Incorporating these three oils into your evening routine can help you wind down and destress for better sleep:

• Lavender
• Chamomile
• Valerian root

Fight Fatigue and Feel an Instant Boost

Some essential oils can help us feel “sharper” by giving a boost to our senses. Here’s your reminder that inhalation is the fastest method of using essential oils, so a quick sniff of these two can help you break through the morning fog:

• Peppermint
• Cinnamon

Give Your Body Energy

Alongside peppermint, there are a few essential oils known to help increase athletic performance! A quick whiff is great before the gym or a brisk walk. These two oils will help wake your body up and get you moving:

• Sweet orange
• Spearmint

Support Your Brain

A major part of fatigue is feeling like you “can’t think straight.” When we struggle to focus, we tend to fall into daydreaming and dozing, which can leave us unproductive for several hours. The following essential oils are known for their help with memory and focus:

• Rosemary
• Cypress

Find Mood-Boosting Goodness

It’s much easier to fight off mid-day sleepiness when you’re feeling positive and happy. These two essential oils will help you keep the good times rolling:

• Ylang ylang
• Lemon

Please note that lemon and other citrus oils can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight.

A Note from Cassandra:

While essential oils are a great way to provide additional benefits to your body and mind, they should never be used as an alternative to medication. It’s always best to talk to a doctor before using essential oils (especially around sensitive loved ones like children, pets, and people who are pregnant). Stay safe and healthy, friends!