The 5 Best Essential Oils for the Summer

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Essential oils have been vital in cooking, self-care, and medicine for millennia. These oils contain the concentrated essence of the plant they’ve been extracted from, and you can use them as natural pesticides or antimicrobial agents. More commonly, they’re used for aromatherapy, as organic skincare, and as food preservatives. Here are some of the best oils for practical use and a few ways to keep your summer hot using essential oils.

1. Orange

With an uplifting aroma that cleans and refreshes the air, orange essential oils effectively remove adhesive residue. For a naturally clean, chemical-free surface, add it to your favorite cleaning solution.

Orange essential oil has antioxidant properties and can reduce the visibility of blemishes and help fade acne scars when applied topically. Apply two drops to the affected area or add a teaspoon to your favorite moisturizer, lotion, or body oil. 

When taken internally in small doses, orange essential oil can support your digestive and immune systems. Try a drop or two in your favorite yogurt or ice cream!

2. Lavender

Lavender essential oil has a tranquilizing aroma and can soothe the skin when applied topically.  Add a tablespoon to your bath with Epsom salt for a soothing, exfoliating bath. Lavender in small amounts can help deal with sun overexposure and slow the development of sunburn. Try adding a few drops to your facial moisturizer or serum.

Lavender also contains antioxidants and immune-boosting components. Use it to add a mellow floral flavor to your evening cup of tea while tending to your body.

3. Grapefruit

Perfect for stimulating the lymphatic system and rich with antioxidants, grapefruit essential oil has a zesty, playful aroma. It can boost your metabolism and be used as a diuretic when taken orally. It’s also great for DIY home cleaning solutions. 

Add grapefruit essential oil to your favorite body oil for a massage that will stimulate the circulatory system. You can also use this mixture to moisturize and tone the skin. 

4. Peppermint

The menthol in peppermint essential oil makes it especially effective as an aromatherapeutic. Peppermint oil can be used as a natural deodorant or cologne and help you focus and get productive in the workplace or at home. 

Peppermint oil soothes gastrointestinal system discomfort. When taken internally, peppermint supports healthy bowel function and helps maintain the efficiency of the digestive tract.

Try adding a tablespoon of peppermint oil to your body wash for an exciting, steamy shower in the morning or for muscle relaxation at night before bed. Apply a mixture of body oil and a few drops of peppermint to the muscles after a workout for a soothing topical solution.

5. Eucalyptus

Oils made from eucalyptus have a rejuvenating aroma. They offer intense aromatherapeutic relaxation and invigorating breathing experiences when massaged into the neck, chest, and shoulders. 

Soothe your muscles after a big workout or a hard day’s work by massaging some eucalyptus oil into the sore or affected area. Alternatively, use it for treating eczema and dry skin. Try adding a teaspoon to your shampoo for a cool, revitalizing wash or spraying some in your hair for volume and sheen.

What are your favorite summertime oils? Sound off in the comments!