Back-to-School Aromatherapy Essentials

When we talk about aromatherapy, we’re talking about the therapeutic use of natural oils that are extracted from flowers, plants, trees, resins, and other botanical elements in nature.

Known as essential oils, each one has unique healing properties that can be gleaned either from inhaling their scent using a diffuser or room spray or through their absorption when diluted and topically applied to the skin. There are many essential oils that may help improve learning and retention.

Essential oils for learning

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus radiata)

Eucalyptus, the classic scent linked to chest rub ointments used during colds and flu, is also used with a diffuser for stimulating the brain and improving energy, both of which can help improve learning.

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavender essential oil seems to have a calming effect that may help alleviate the anxiety that often accompanies tests and exams. In preclinical research, the essential oil holds promise in the restoration of healthy serotonin levels in the brain, which could explain its reported ability to improve mood and reduce anxiety and depression.

Lemon (Citrus limon)

Animal studies seem to support the traditional uses of lemon essential oil to elevate mood and ease depression and anxiety, making it an excellent choice for those who struggle with the emotional aspects of learning.

Orange (Citrus sinensis)

Researchers have found that the effect of inhaling orange essential oil was lower levels of anxiety, increased calmness, and a better mood in study participants. These beneficial effects could also apply to a learning environment.

Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Peppermint is widely used in aromatherapy to improve alertness and focus and to boost mood and energy, all of which can be helpful when studying or learning. In a 2008 study published in the International Journal of Neuroscience, researchers found that smelling peppermint essential oil boosted alertness and enhanced memory.

Rose (Rosa damascena)

Research in the medical journal Neuroscience found that smelling the scent of roses during learning and sleep increases memory and learning ability. Another study published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that inhaling the scent of rose (or orange) essential oil induced relaxation, which may be helpful in dealing with the stress linked to learning.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosemary’s long-time reputation for boosting memory likely stems from its ability to increase blood flow to the brain. In animal studies, rosemary has been found to slow the degradation of the compound acetylcholine, which is involved in memory formation. Arguably the best essential oil for memory and learning, rosemary was found by other research published in the Alexandria Journal of Medicine to enhance focus, memory, and memorization in children.

Safety guidelines for using essential oils

• Avoid using essential oils in ears, eyes, or nose.
• Do not use internally without the guidance of a qualified professional.
• Always dilute essential oils prior to using.
• Conduct a 48-hour patch test before applying diluted oils more widespread to your skin.
• Discontinue use if you have an allergic reaction.
• Use only oils suitable for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Use with caution.

This article was originally published in the August 2020 issue of alive Canada.