Summer is coming, and with it, its share of pleasures but also minor inconveniences: insect bites, sunburn, stifling heat, or heavy legs after a long day outdoors. Fortunately, nature offers us simple and effective solutions to get through this season. Essential oils, with their many benefits, can become your allies for a serene summer.
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts brimming with benefits for our health and well-being. In summer, they are particularly useful for soothing skin irritations, relieving heat, aiding digestion after a heavy meal, repelling mosquitoes, or simply for relaxation. But be careful, some oils are photosensitizing, so it is crucial to use them correctly.
In this article, we present the essential oils to prioritize this summer, their benefits, how to use them, and practical recommendations for enjoying summer in complete peace of mind. As a bonus, we introduce you to some Born to Bio products that will be perfect for your summer moments.
WHY USE ESSENTIAL OILS IN SUMMER?
Essential oils are true treasures of nature. They possess a multitude of properties that can be particularly beneficial during the summer. Using them allows you to treat minor everyday ailments and better enjoy the summer season, naturally and without chemicals.
Here are some benefits of essential oils for this summer:
- Soothing insect bites : some oils act as natural repellents or help to calm the itching and inflammation of bites.
- Refresh the ambient air : they purify and sanitize the air, making your interior more pleasant.
- Relieving sunburn : some essential oils have soothing and healing properties.
- Promoting digestion : after a heavy meal, they can facilitate transit and relieve bloating.
- Relax and unwind : after an intense day in the sun, certain oils bring calm and serenity.
- Preparing the skin for tanning : certain oils can stimulate blood circulation and prepare the skin before sun exposure, or help it regenerate after prolonged exposure.
But be careful, some essential oils are photosensitizing , meaning they can cause severe skin reactions when exposed to sunlight. That's why it's essential to know them well and use them with caution. We'll detail which ones to favor and which to avoid.
1. Spike lavender essential oil: to relieve stings, burns and sunburn
Spike lavender essential oil is one of the most effective for treating sunburn, insect bites, and minor burns. It possesses soothing and healing properties, ideal for calming skin irritated by the sun or insects. Spike lavender oil is also an excellent pain reliever and promotes rapid tissue repair. It is therefore perfectly suited to summer ailments.
To use it, apply one or two drops directly to an insect bite or minor burn. You can also mix three drops of spike lavender essential oil with a tablespoon of sweet almond oil and gently apply it to the skin. However, do not confuse spike lavender with true lavender, which is milder but less suitable for soothing burns.
2. LEMON ESSENTIAL OIL: TO PURIFY THE AIR AND STIMULATE DIGESTION
Lemon essential oil is a true natural detoxifier, perfect for purifying the air and stimulating digestion. It is particularly valued for its invigorating and purifying properties, which help refresh the indoor atmosphere on hot days. When diffused, it purifies the air while creating a pleasant and refreshing ambiance.
In addition to its atmospheric properties, lemon essential oil also aids digestion. After a heavy meal, you can use it in a gentle massage on your stomach, diluted to 10% in a carrier oil. However, be aware that lemon essential oil is photosensitizing; therefore, it is not recommended to apply it before sun exposure.
3. PEPPERMINT ESSENTIAL OIL: TO REFRESH AND RELIEVE HEAVY LEGS
Peppermint essential oil is an excellent natural cooler. Its stimulating and cooling effect is ideal for combating heat and relieving heavy legs after a sunny day. It also has anti-nausea properties and can be used to relieve headaches or heat-related fatigue.
If you experience heavy legs, you can dilute a few drops of peppermint essential oil in a carrier oil and massage your legs for an immediate cooling effect. Additionally, it relieves heat-related headaches when a few diluted drops are applied to the temples.
PRECAUTIONS : Caution, peppermint essential oil is very potent. It should not be used undiluted on the skin, especially on children under 6 years old or pregnant women.
4. Rose Geranium Essential Oil: To Repel Mosquitoes and Soothe Skin
Rose geranium essential oil is a truly effective natural mosquito repellent. It also has healing properties, making it ideal for soothing skin after a bite or irritation. Its pleasant floral scent is a perfect substitute for perfumed summer products, while offering natural protection against insects.
To use it, you can add a few drops of rose geranium essential oil to a homemade spray made with water and a little alcohol to make a natural repellent, or mix it with coconut oil to soothe post-bite itching.
5. YLANG-YLANG ESSENTIAL OIL: FOR RELAXATION AND NATURAL FRAGRANCE
Ylang-ylang essential oil is ideal for relaxing after a long, sunny day. It has nerve-relaxing properties and can be diffused in the bedroom to create a calming atmosphere, or added to a relaxing bath to promote muscle relaxation. Its exotic, floral fragrance evokes a touch of vacation and is perfect for those who enjoy floral scents.
USAGE INSTRUCTIONS AND IMPORTANT PRECAUTIONS
Essential oils, although natural, are not without risk. It is essential to use them with caution. Here are some tips:
- Always test a small area of skin (such as the inside of your elbow) before using them to check for any allergic reaction.
- Never apply them before sun exposure if they are photosensitizing.
- Always dilute essential oils in a vegetable oil before applying them to the skin.
- Keep them out of reach of children, and never use them on babies.
- Always seek the advice of a healthcare professional if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or undergoing medical treatment.
BORN TO ORGANIC ESSENTIALS FOR SUMMER
At Born to Bio, you can find a selection of high-quality organic essential oils, such as spike lavender , lemon , tea tree , peppermint , and ylang-ylang . These are essential oils to incorporate into your daily wellness routine, always with the respect of informed and responsible use.
TO GO FURTHER
For detailed information on aromatherapy and its benefits, we recommend you consult the website passeportsante, which offers information on essential oils for this summer:
- 10 essential oils you absolutely need for your vacation
