Essential Oils for the Holidays

The holidays are just around the corner and there are many familiar scents during this time. Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), clove (Eugenia caryophyllata), pine (Pinus sylvestris), spruce (Picea mariana), orange (Citrus sinensis), lemon (Citrus limon) and others, bring an uplifting mood when used during the holiday season. Many of these scents instantly trigger memories from past holidays.

Not only do these essential oils have pleasant aromas, but they also have health benefits. Spice oils are powerful antimicrobial substances while the conifer oils help respiratory conditions. Lemon essential oil stimulates white blood cell production which is a key component of the immune system. In a study on depression, lemon essential oil showed powerful results when compared to antidepressant medications. Orange essential oil is calming and can be used for insomnia and stress.

At my house, I often blend these oils in my ultrasonic diffuser during the holiday season. Cinnamon, clove, and orange oils make a wonderfully pleasant scent in the house. They can also be used with a passive diffuser such as ceramic or stone diffusers. A blend of pine, spruce, and cedarwood (Juniperus ashei) in a nasal inhaler can be reminiscent of Christmas trees in addition to opening airways in the sinuses and lungs.

For personal recommendations for your home, you can try these or contact me for more suggestions. I encourage you to think about purchasing an ultrasonic diffuser for use year-round. It is a great investment in your health (see my blog on diffusers). I have recommendations for them as well.

Enjoy the season!