With the return to school approaching, many parents and students are looking for natural methods to promote serenity and well-being on a daily basis. Essential oils, thanks to their unique properties, can offer natural support to enhance peace of mind and concentration.
Why use essential oils for memory and concentration?
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that possess the aromatic and beneficial qualities of the plant from which they come. Some of these oils have been studied for their potential effects on memory and concentration.
How can essential oils improve memory and concentration?
Essential oils can impact our brain and cognitive abilities by interacting with our limbic system, the part of the brain involved in controlling mood, emotions, memory and learning.
Which essential oils are best for memory and concentration?
Several essential oils are commonly used for these purposes. Here are a few that have been studied for their potential beneficial effects:
- Rosemary : Rosemary has been studied for its potential to improve memory and concentration, likely thanks to its compounds like 1,8-cineole (1) .
- Lemon : Lemon essential oil is often used for its cooling and energizing properties, which can help improve mental clarity and focus (2) .
Other essential oils beneficial for memory and concentration
- Peppermint : This oil has a bright, refreshing aroma that can help boost mental energy and focus (3) .
- Basil : Basil essential oil is often used to help with mental fatigue and to improve attention (4) .
- Eucalyptus : Eucalyptus is known for its cooling properties, which can help boost mental energy and clarity (5) .
How to use these essential oils to improve memory and concentration?
- Diffusion : Diffusing these oils in your workspace or your child's study space can help create an environment conducive to concentration.
- Topical application : For more personal use, try making a mixture in a roll-on applicator . You could combine 10 drops of rosemary and 10 drops of lemon EO with fractionated coconut oil in a roll-on applicator. Then you can apply this mixture to your temples or behind your ears when you need a mental boost.
- Aromatic bath : Adding a few drops of essential oil to your bath can create a relaxing experience that can also help stimulate your mind. Be sure to dilute essential oils well before adding them to your bath.
- Direct inhalation : Holding the open bottle under your nose and taking a few deep breaths can provide quick cognitive support when you need it.
- Massage : Mixing a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil, such as fractionated coconut oil, and applying it to the neck, shoulders, or feet can help relieve stress while promoting concentration .
Conclusion
Returning to school can be a stressful time, but with the right strategies, it can become an exciting time of learning and growth. Essential oils can be a great addition to your or your child's daily routine to help support memory and concentration. Try them and discover how these natural wonders can help optimize academic performance.
Warning
It's important to note that while these essential oils can help support memory and concentration, they are not a magic bullet. Each individual is unique and may react differently to these oils. Additionally, these oils are not intended to treat, cure, or prevent any disease and should not replace proper medical treatment. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting to use essential oils, especially if you or your child has pre-existing medical conditions, is pregnant or breastfeeding.
References
- Moss M, Cook J, Wesnes K, Duckett P. Aromas of rosemary and lavender essential oils differentially affect cognition and mood in healthy adults. Int J Neurosci. 2003;113(1):15-38. ↩
- Sayorwan W, Ruangrungsi N, Piriyapunyporn T, Hongratanaworakit T, Kotchabhakdi N, Siripornpanich V. Effects of inhaled rosemary oil on subjective feelings and activities of the nervous system. Sci Pharm. 2013;81(2):531-542. ↩
- Moss M, Hewitt S, Moss L, Wesnes K. Modulation of cognitive performance and mood by aromas of peppermint and ylang-ylang. Int J Neurosci. 2008;118(1):59-77. ↩