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To Talk You Off the Anxiety Ledge
Trattner calls lavender an essential oil "superstar." The list of healing properties is long, and includes addressing issues like headaches, lice, cysts, muscle pain, digestive issues, depression, nervousness and many other mood disorders, says Trattner. As the subject of over 350 PubMed studies, researchers clearly think it's worth being evaluated. A tip for relaxation: "I put a few drops mixed with clary sage, geranium and ylang ylang in a spray bottle of distilled water," says Trattner, which mimics her favorite aromatherapy scent, Clear Skies Ahead by Little Moon Essentials, $6.30. It's also a way to make expensive essential oils go a long way.
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To Help You Draft That Perfect Email
In one study, a low dose of rosemary was found to have positive effect on cognition of elderly adults. Since we're into anything that can help us remember what day it is, consider us sold. Fun fact: Rosemary was burned in French hospitals to purify the air until the 1900s. Rosemary -- it's so vogue of you.
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To Take Your Mind Off Your Mind
In a diffuser, peppermint essential oil can be used to help with headaches and fatigue, says Trattner. Applied topically (mixed with a carrier oil, remember!) peppermint has been shown in studies to be as effective as pain relievers.
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To Set the Mood
Essential oils don't just combat bad energy; they can also create good feelings. Vetiver is deeply relaxing and comforting, and creates a homey, cozy vibe when diffused throughout your environment. But this essential oil won't make you so comfortable you fall asleep. In one animal study, diffusing the oil created significant feelings of alertness.
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When You Need an Inner Cleanse
You know the feeling: you feel stuffy, clogged, generally terrible -- you have a cold. That's where eucalyptus steps in. "Eucalyptus oil also has anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial effects," says Trattner. If you have a cold, she recommends adding a few drops to a diffuser or bowl of warm water, then put a towel over your head to inhale, creating your very own Vick VapoRub situation.
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