In Chinese medicine, Fall is the season of the metal element, when we need to reinforce our lungs, immune systems, and care for our large intestines.
It is the season for processing grief and letting go, both physically (transit) and emotionally.
While essential oils are not exactly part of traditional Chinese medicine, they are wonderful home remedies to change your mood, vibration and even boost your immune system.
Evergreen essential oils for Lungs & immunity
In the fall, it is important to boost Lung Qi, which these oils can do.They also have the energy to release emotional blocks by quieting the compulsively stuck mind and support the Lungs to “let go” and move on.
Pine
Black Spruce
Fir
Cedar
These are all useful to Terpenes found in conifer oils have been found to have antidepressant effects as well. This is why breathing in fresh air in a forest can be liberating and refreshing for the mind and emotions.
However, if you’re very stuck and rigid, stubborn phlegm may be blocking the Lungs from diffusing its Qi and letting go. In these cases, essential oils with strong mucous-breaking qualities should be used.
Thuja
Bay Laurel
Eucalyptus
Essential Oils for dryness & constipation
The other metal element organ is the large intestine, and like the lungs, it is prone to dryness in the fall. If you need help getting things moving, you can use:
Fennel
Peppermint
Rosemary
Fennel seed is a powerful digestive stimulant that can act as a laxative when ingested. Rosemary has a spasmolytic effect, it can relax muscles and suppress spasms. Like peppermint oil, this can jump-start the digestive system and get bowels moving more smoothly.
Citrus peel oils for Grief
The dominant emotion in the fall and metal season is Grief. If there is any unresolved or unprocessed trauma that you need support to let go of, you can use the following mood boosters to help:
Bergamot
Orange
Tangerine
Mandarin
Lemon & Lime
These citrus peel essential oils have been found to increase dopamine, a neurotransmitter that induces happiness.
Caution
never use essential oils if you are pregnant
do not ingest, do not place directly on your skin (allergy) but always in a carrier oil
do not put in your eyes