During a summertime heatwave, it feels like there's not an air conditioner big enough to cool you off. While there are many simple, practical ways to keep cool, essential oils deserve a spot in your arsenal. Here are four essential oils to help you beat the summer heat.

Lemon Eucalyptus Essential Oil

A strong anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, antibacterial, anti-fungal oil, a 50:50 dilution diffused or a few drops rubbed on sore, inflamed areas can do wonders to reduce internal swelling. Plus, eucalyptus has a natural cooling effect. Walking into a eucalyptus-scented room may actually make you feel cooler. As a bonus, lemon eucalyptus oil is recognized by the EPA as an extremely effective mosquito and tick repellent. Nothing is worse than being hot and being attacked by flying fiends, so keep this oil nearby.

Lavender Essential Oil

As an adaptogen, lavender is a versatile oil in helping the body adapt to stress. Not only is this a calming oil, but it can also have a soothing effect on sunburns. Keep it around for when your stress levels skyrocket in the persistent heat or when your exposed skin is a little too cooked. Dilute a few drops in a carrier oil, such as almond or jojoba, and apply to skin to soothe burns and minor wounds.

Additionally, if you’re lying wide-eyed and awake in bed on a particularly sticky night, putting some lavender oil in a diffuser can encourage sleep and relaxation. Keep some in your medicine cabinet, especially if you do not have an air conditioner in your bedroom.

Frankincense Essential Oil

This biblical oil is a powerful de-stressor. It helps to balance moods, which is useful when you lose yourself in a big pool of sweat. As a relaxing agent, frankincense can promote sound sleep on particularly restless nights when diffused into the air. This oil can also help to soothe itchy skin, which is useful if you’ve been mauled by mosquitos or stumbled into some poison ivy.

Peppermint Essential Oil

Having trouble staying alert and focused? As the heat bears down, it is natural to dream of some luxurious tropical island rather than focus on whatever task is at hand. Peppermint is excellent for cooling the mind and body while encouraging clarity and focus. Put a few drops in a small spray bottle of water and give yourself a spritz or two anytime you are feeling a little low. It may help you get back on the right track, no matter how sweltering it is.

While essential oils won’t work summertime miracles, they can make the heat a lot easier to manage. Whether you’re trying to promote sleep, soothe a burn, relax, or get to work, essential oils have you covered. Be sure to use caution, however, as these oils are extremely potent. Always dilute essential oils unless instructed otherwise by a professional.

Source: https://www.care2.com/greenliving/4-essential-oils-that-provide-relief-from-the-heat.html