From cold fingers to coughs to cabin fever, there are many reasons winter isn’t exactly the best time of year for wellness. But it doesn’t have to be that way. This season, turn to your arsenal of essential oils to combat common cold-weather-related woes.
1. If you’re stuffed up
Help calm the occasional cough or soothe a stuffy nose by adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a large bowl of hot water and inhaling the steam. (Just be VERY careful not to burn yourself!)
2. If you’re battling germs
To keep doorknobs, countertops and other shared surfaces clean, make your own oregano-powered surface spray. Simply add 5 drops of oregano oil to a spray bottle and fill with water. (Bonus: your home will smell like an Italian restaurant.)
3. If you’re stuck inside
When snow and ice keep you stuck indoors for days at a time, keep cabin fever at bay by adding a little orange oil to a room diffuser. This sunny citrus scent can help brighten even the darkest days.
4. If you’re stressed
Too much to do, and not enough time to do it. We’ve all been there! Clear 30 minutes from your schedule to unwind and recharge with a bergamot bath. Simply mix 2-3 drops of bergamot oil with a carrier oil (jojoba, sweet almond, etc.) and add to a steamy bath.
5. If you’re chilly
When the temperatures dip into the single digits (or the negatives!), sometimes long johns and layers just aren’t enough. For an instant warming effect, cozy up by combining clove or cinnamon with a carrier oil and rubbing a small amount on your hands and feet.
6. If you’re dry or chapped
When winter weather takes a toll on your hands and lips, you need a fast fix. My favorite lip balm recipe is coconut-beeswax lip balm, which doubles as a soothing hand salve, and can be easily customized with a few drops of skin-calming lavender oil.