The 3 Essential Oils You Need To Start An Aromatherapy Practice

Secondly, not all essential oils are created equal. Some can act as aphrodisiacs while others are helpful as mood boosters or stress relievers. Depending on your lifestyle, you may find yourself drawn to just a few scents—no need to stock up on every essential oil out there. Start an aromatherapy practice by paring down your collection to hit your specific self-care needs. Check out three below, each an organic, traceable Garden of Life essential oil.

If you're new to essential oils, lavender is a great one to start with. It's gentle and a go-to scent for creating a calm environment that helps with rest and comfort. Oils from eucalyptus leaves are known for their antiviral and antibacterial properties and for clarity and focus when you need to stay alert; or when exhaustion creeps in, peppermint is the perfect pick-me-up scent—just one whiff can be energizing. If you do have little ones around, though, just be sure to diffuse safely and for a few minutes at a time.

Anyone who's putting in time around the clock—whether it's work or just staying active—can benefit from the heady aroma of rosemary, the stimulating properties of which can help fight mental fatigue and even help increase memory2. The citrusy scent of sweet orange helps promote a positive ambience, which is helpful during stressful periods while working. Keep a diffuser in your office or desk at home to invigorate your mind and nourish creativity while brainstorming or problem solving. And the fresh-yet-spicy scent of frankincense can help foster much-needed calmness, introspection, and inner peace. It also helps to reduce hyperactivity and restlessness3.

Life in the urban sprawl often means you're living in proximity to thousands of people, surrounded by overstimulation, and you're probably always on-the-go. Back in your apartment—a sanctuary from the chaos—these three essential oils are calming and purifying4. The fresh scent of tea tree is wonderful for cleansing, the herbal notes of lemongrass promote relaxation, and eucalyptus is a powerhouse plant with anti-inflammatory properties5 that can help relieve symptoms of respiratory issues if you feel a cold coming on. Try adding a few drops to your household cleaning products for an extra antibacterial detox6 for your space.

The soothing properties of lavender can help support emotional connection and contentment, perfect for deepening a relationship. A few drops can relieve nervous tension and promote muscle relaxation to help an active couple unwind. Lemon's citrusy notes have been shown to have a mood-lifting effect when you're feeling angry or anxious. And geranium's floral scent is associated with love, care, and compassion and can help relax pent-up emotions while emboldening intimate energy. Try using it during a massage or infuse a bath with a few drops.

Head to Garden of Life to learn more about these essential oils and their benefits.