Aromatherapy for autumn

While the cooler, darker days can welcome hot chocolate, blankets and cosy nights in, they can also bring illness, stress and lack of concentration to many.

Aromatherapy has many uses and takes many forms. During the seasonal change, introducing aromatherapy into your home and lifestyle is thought to enhance well-being and help reduce symptoms of stress. It is said to help promote feelings of calm, increase motivation and help treat skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.

What essential oils to use

• Peppermint, eucalyptus, scotch pine and Siberian fir are all essential oils used to help relieve symptoms of cold and flu.
• Rosemary, scotch pine, pinon pine and cypress are believed to help ease nasal congestion and inflammation of the sinuses.
• Manuka, cinnamon, clove and lemon are well-known antioxidants.
• Geranium, German chamomile, patchouli, rose and sandalwood are thought to treat dry skin and psoriasis, while rosehip and tamanu are believed to treat eczema.
• Basil, black pepper, peppermint and rosemary are commonly used to improve focus and concentration.

While essential oils are the main ingredient in aromatherapy, the carriers and application type are equally important. For example, in situations where the skin is very inflamed or particularly sensitive, the aromatherapist may recommend a simple, soothing blend of carriers. There are many aromatherapy applications, each with a different healing property. To learn what may be best for your needs, consider the following:

Diffusers

Diffusers help to spread a scent throughout the room. Depending on the essential oils used in the diffuser, they can help to treat sinus congestion, boost the immune system and improve mood.

Personal inhalers

These can offer a portable, personal treatment to each person. You can fill it with your chosen blend of essential oils to clear sinuses, improve focus and motivation or increase a sense of grounding.

Creams and lotions

Lotions, creams and butters are commonly used to treat skin conditions that occur in the autumn/winter months. Oils and butters are rich in fatty acids, therefore are commonly used to moisturise the skin.

Bath oils

Why not pamper yourself? Bath oils are a great mood booster and adding a teaspoon of essential oils into the water can also soothe the skin. Dilute the oils before adding them into your bath water, as warm water can often increase the potential for irritation. You can do this by mixing the oil with a little vegetable oil.