With sunny weather comes more time spent in the outdoors. And more time outside means we are more prone to insect bites, sunburn, heat exhaustion and muscle aches from the extra activity.
Essential oils are a simple and natural way to add a little comfort to the minor bumps and irritations that many of us experience during the summer months. So, to help you get ready, we have prepared a list of our favourite “must have oils” for your summer first aid kit.
The 3 basic “essential” oils that we recommend in any first aid kit include:
- Tea Tree
- Lavender
- Geranium.
Your kit should also include a clean cloth that can be used for hot or cold compresses or to clean an area prior to treatment. Other first aid necessities include bandages, a carrier oil such as Jojoba, and some rose hydrosol to quickly soothe those sun or barbeque burns.
Tea Tree — A Cleansing, Refreshing Favourite
A refreshing favourite for freshening up the skin and for pampering everyday minor irritations and insect bites. Tea Tree can be applied directly on the skin (neat) without a carrier oil, making it easy to use.
Lavender — Soothing and Versatile
Lavender oil is another “must have” essential oil. Lavender oil can also be used neat and is loved for soothing and comforting everyday bumps, insect bites, tired muscles and skin after time in the sun. Its calming aroma is lovely applied to the temples and the back of the neck when you simply want to relax and breathe deeply. On a hot day, a few drops of Lavender added to a bath of cool water or a cool compress can feel refreshing. Please note: heat exhaustion and heat stroke are medical emergencies — if you or someone else shows signs of heat stroke (such as confusion, a very high temperature, or fainting), seek emergency medical care right away rather than relying on essential oils.
Geranium — Balancing and Floral
This lovely, floral oil is a favourite for pampering dry skin. Its balancing aroma is a popular companion during travel and times of monthly or seasonal change. It blends beautifully into a soothing self-care routine.
Keeping those pesky insects away can be done by using Lavender. A couple of other essential oils that are also good insect repellents are clove, peppermint, citronella and lemongrass. Simply mix a few drops of any of these oils with some Jojoba oil and apply to exposed skin or add the pure mix to a diffuser or try using Colour Energy®’s blue chakra blend.
If you’re heading outside for a picnic, sporting event, yard work, or relaxing on a patio, chances are you’re going to come across a bug or two. While covering up and adding an extra layer is one option for minimizing bug bites, it’s not always realistic in hot temperatures.
Natural Bug Repellent That is Effective & Smells Wonderful!
Before you reach for a commercial bug repellent – that may contain harsh chemicals–take some time to consider the better alternative: a natural bug repellent that smells wonderful, is effective and long-lasting.
Our newest addition to our Aromatherapy line, Mother Nature’s Aromatherapy, is fresh smelling and Mother Nature approved as it contains only pure plant essential oils, including Citronella, Eucalyptus, Lemon Eucalyptus, Spearmint, Neem, Cedarwood, Tea Tree, Lemongrass, Clove Bud, Cajaput, Catnip, Rosemary and Lavender in a base of demineralized water.
Since Mother Nature’s Aromatherapy is available in a 120ml spray as well as in a 30ml travel size spray you can stay protected no matter where the path may lead you! Simply shake and spray 1-3 times as needed, above the head or 6-8 inches from the skin. Lightly cover exposed skin and/or clothing.
Another great option for enhancing your indoor or outdoor experience is to diffuse Mother Nature’s Aromatherapy pure mix in a Heavenly scent diffuser. With Mother Nature’s aromatherapy not only will you be able to enjoy the outdoors insect free, you will smell great and remain clean, natural and pure.
Stock Up On Natural Favourites This Summer
There you have it! A fantastic list of go-to natural products that are lovely and easy to use. Essential oils are wonderfully versatile, and an oil such as lavender is a comforting companion to reach for in so many everyday moments.
Be sure to check out the Natural Products and Aromatherapy section at colourenergyshop.com
This article is for general information and reflects the tradition of aromatherapy. These essential oils are aromatherapy products and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. For burns, infections, or any medical emergency, please seek appropriate medical care.