The arrival of cold seasons brings challenges. With shorter days, we become less active, and our immune systems are tested by low temperatures. There are many ways to strengthen our defenses—from healthy eating, good hydration, and physical activity to dietary supplements —but essential oils are an ^increasingly popular choice.

What are these oils? Although their therapeutic use is an ancient practice, only recently has aromatherapy — the therapeutic use of essential oils to improve physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being— ^earned its place as a complementary therapy recognized by the ^WHO . These oils are obtained from plant materials primarily through steam distillation . ^It 's essential to know how to use these powerful botanical compounds ^. .

The benefits are multifaceted: in addition to improving mood, reducing stress, and boosting immunity, they can also help make your home a more welcoming place ⁵ .

Check out our recommendations to increase your comfort in winter, prevent flu and colds, and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of essential oils .

How to use essential oils?

Because they are so strong, you need to take some care and precautions when using essential oils.

As we have seen, essential oils are used in aromatherapy, which uses different therapeutic methods including ⁶ :

1. By applying the diluted oil topically, it is absorbed through the skin, such as through massages, baths, cosmetics, and perfumes. Dilution is essential to prevent contact dermatitis, allergies, and skin irritations. ⁷
2. Absorption of essential oil by inhalation through the nostrils, through a steam diffuser, aromatic stones, or scented room spray.
3. Oral use of the oil, using capsules and safe doses always with the essential oil diluted in water, teas, supplements, or even in food to be ingested.
4. It can also be used for internal absorption, for example as a mouthwash.

It is important to avoid direct contact with the essential oil, diluting it before any use.

Once again, caution and moderation are key to avoiding adverse effects. Check the specific instructions on your essential oil label, which specify recommended uses and concentration.

What are the best essential oils for this time of year?

There are dozens of essential oils, and their chemical properties vary. Your choice will depend on the conditions you want to treat or prevent, or even your preferred fragrance. For fall and winter, some oils that may be useful are:

Tea tree essential oil

Despite its name, tea tree essential oil has nothing to do with the tea plant we're used to drinking. Coming from a tree native to Australia, the Aboriginal population has been exploring its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties for over a century. ⁸ In addition to supporting the immune system , it also helps reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract. ⁷ Use it in a vaporizer or diffuser to decongest and relieve coughs and cold or flu symptoms .

Peppermint essential oil

Peppermint essential oil is very popular for its analgesic, antispasmodic, and digestive properties, as well as for relieving abdominal pain and bloating . ⁹ This time of year, it can be especially helpful for relieving symptoms of inflammation and respiratory irritation ^. . As if that weren't enough, it also helps lift your spirits, warding off seasonal depression.

Rosemary essential oil

We're more accustomed to using it as a seasoning, but rosemary transformed into an essential oil offers several health benefits ^. In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, it also has good antioxidant properties , and its smooth muscle relaxant activity helps improve inflammatory airway diseases. Like other oils, it helps reduce stress levels and promotes a positive mood.

Cinnamon essential oil

Cinnamon oil is very appropriate for the season, with a Christmas touch that fills us with memories of comfort. In aromatherapy, it's used for its mood-boosting effects and as an adjunct to improving symptoms of depression and anxiety disorders, but it ^also has antioxidant properties.

Thyme essential oil linalool

Thyme linalool essential oil is a sweet and gentle oil that can be a great ally during the cold months. It has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, and also has an expectorant effect , capable of relieving coughs and clearing airways ^. Revitalize yourself and increase your resistance!

You can see some of our suggestions below 😉