Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts derived from plants using steam or water distillation, or through physical processes like cold pressing. They are most often used in aromatherapy, usually either inhaled or diluted and applied topically.
There are nearly 100 frequently used essential oils, each commonly linked to specific health claims such as enhanced concentration, motivation, and increased energy.
Read on to discover which oils might help reduce tiredness and raise your energy, motivation, and focus.
5 essential oils supported by research
Certain essential oils have clinical studies backing suggestions that they may boost energy and reduce fatigue.
Oils that may lessen fatigue and sharpen focus include:
Peppermint essential oil
A small study concluded that peppermint essential oil can be effective at preventing fatigue and enhancing exercise performance.
Sweet orange and spearmint essential oils
A study found that inhaling sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) and spearmint (Mentha spicata) essential oils could improve athletic performance.
Spearmint and rosemary essential oils
Another study (conducted in mice) reported that a spearmint essential oil blend with rosemary essential oil produced positive effects on learning and memory, along with improvements in brain tissue markers of oxidation associated with aging.
Rosemary essential oil
An initial study demonstrated the stimulating effects of rosemary oil and its influence on mood, brain wave patterns, and the autonomic nervous system.
A later 2018 study involving schoolchildren supported the idea that rosemary may aid focus and memory, potentially helping with memorization in academic settings. For more on rosemary’s cognitive and focus-related properties, see rosemary oil benefits.
Lemon essential oil
A study concluded that lemon oil consistently improves positive mood.
While more investigation is required on lemon essential oil, citrus aromas have traditionally been considered uplifting.
Other essential oils that are claimed to boost energy, mood, and focus
Aromatherapy proponents suggest many other essential oils could enhance energy while also promoting focus and motivation.
The list below shows essential oils that are often claimed to support energy, mood, or creativity. Further research is needed to evaluate and confirm these assertions.
Essential oilClaimed benefits
bergamot energizing
cinnamon boosts energy
eucalyptus stimulates the brain and enhances energy
frankincense balances the nervous system
French basil stimulates the adrenals
ginger root energizing
grapefruit increases energy
juniper berry improves energy levels
lime uplifts mood or sparks creativity
lemongrass invigorates the senses
pine provides an energy lift
thyme increases energy and elevates spirits
wild orange lifts mood
How to use essential oils
Although some users blend essential oils with lotions or apply them to dressings, the most common aromatherapy methods are:
- Direct inhalation. Breathe in the aroma directly, for example using a personal inhaler or by placing drops over hot water.
- Indirect inhalation. Use a room diffuser to disperse the scent, or put a few drops on a tissue or cotton ball for intermittent inhalation.
- Massage. Massage a diluted essential oil into the skin. Always mix essential oils with a carrier oil — such as coconut, almond, or avocado oil — before applying to skin.
Potential risks
Claims about essential oils are sometimes overstated, and rigorous evidence supporting many of these claims is limited.
If you take medications or have a serious medical condition, consult your physician before using essential oils.
For topical use, check for an allergic reaction by placing a drop or two on the inside of your elbow or wrist and covering the spot with a bandage. If itching, redness, or a rash occurs within 24 hours, do not use the oil on your skin.
If you plan to use essential oils with a child, speak with your pediatrician first.
Citrus oils like lemon make skin highly photosensitive. Avoid sun exposure on areas where you’ve applied citrus oils.
When diffusing oils in the air, be mindful of others who may be exposed, including pregnant or breastfeeding people, individuals with asthma, children, and pets. Some essential oils can be harmful to certain groups.
The takeaway
If you often reach for coffee, soda, or energy drinks to combat tiredness, consider trying an essential oil such as rosemary, peppermint, or lemon instead.
Discuss this option with your doctor, along with additional strategies to manage low energy. They can suggest lifestyle adjustments — including diet, sleep, and exercise — to sustain energy and ensure fatigue isn’t a symptom of a more serious issue.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.