The 5-element theory of Chinese medicine tells us that in the winter, we ought to :
support our immune system
keep warm
keep our bones & joints protected
replenish our kidneys and adrenals
Essential oils are NOT recommended to our expecting and breastfeeding mamas,
and we recommend to always do an allergy test on the crease of your elbow before using.
Essential oils for Adrenal Fatigue
The adrenals are the glands that sit on top of your kidneys and that secrete some hormones, especially stress hormones. In the winter, we need to replenish by slowing down. You can massage your low back area with some of the following oils (diluted in a neutral oil like jojoba):
Black Spruce Picea mariana: Fatigue, immune support, adrenal support, stress, anxiety, feelings of burn out
Cedar Cedrus atlantica: stress, anxiety, emotional exhaustion
Pine Pinus sylvestris: may have a stimulating effect on the adrenal cortex; physical & nervous fatigue
Rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis: strengthening tonic for the whole body often used for clients who are tired, run down and may be helpful for exhaustion
Warming essential oils
Cinnamon Cinnamomum zeylanicum Exhaustion, mild depression, emotional coolness, low libido, Infections (viral, bacterial, fungal), bronchitis
Cardamom Elettaria cardamomum: Anxiety, mental fatigue, mild depression, indigestion, nausea, heartburn, stomach ache, poor circulation
Clove Eugenia caryophyllata: stiff joints, infections, colds, flu, sinusitis, bronchitis, nausea, poor digestion, poor circulation
Black Pepper Piper nigrum: Muscle aches, stiff joints, poor circulation, feeling cold, indigestion, sluggish digestion, infections
As well as being warming and stimulating, they’re also great at easing those every-day aches and pains such as a stiff back, which always feels much worse during the winter months.
Try using them in a massage, after an essential oil foot soak or bath !
Immune support essential oils
Tea Tree Melaleuca alternifolia: gentle & powerful, full-spectrum, anti-infectious properties & support for the immune system
Wintergreen Gaultheria procumbens: Muscle aches, cramps, stiff joints, water retention, inflammation
Eucalyptus Eucalyptus globulus: mental fog, congestion of nose & sinuses, expectorant, analgesic, antibacterial, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral.
Bay Laurel Laurus nobilis: Respiratory congestion, muscle aches, stiff joints, poor circulation, headaches, infections, lymphatic support, immune support.
How to use essential oils for immunity
Chest Rub: Mix 5-15 drops of essential oil in 1 tbsp of carrier oil like jojoba or natural lotion, apply to your upper chest and upper back.
Foot bath: Mix 1-3 drops of essential oil in 1/2 tsp of carrier oil. Fill a tub (deep enough to cover your feet and ankles) with warm water. Add the essential oil mixture, stir well, and immerse your feet for 10-15 minutes.