This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at SMCVT chapter.

Aromatherapy is the perfect way to get in sync this semester. The “smell” receptors in your nose communicate with emotions and memories. When you breathe in essential oils, some researchers believe they stimulate these parts of your brain and influence physical, emotional, and mental health, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Using an oil diffuser, you can completely change the environment of your dorm room. The following explains how to use 8 different essential oils to treat the back to school blues.

Stress: Rose & Frankincense

Frankincense essential oil has natural antidepressant properties. The oil provides a calming and soothing energy to a room. It helps quiet the mind. Rose essential oil can induce deep feelings of sedation and calmness.

Sleep: Lavender & Cedarwood

Lavender essential oil is a great relief for those suffering from insomnia and stress. A study at Britain’s University of Southampton, researchers found that after individuals ranked the quality of their sleep 20% better on average when in the lavender-scented room. Lavender encourages deep slumber.

Cedarwood essential oil is a woodsy aroma that offers sleep inducing benefits. Turn on these oils and hour or so before bed. Make sure to then turn off the diffuser before falling asleep

Sickness: Tea Tree & Thieves

Thieves essential oil combines lemon, cinnamon bark, eucalyptus, clove, and rosemary to create a quick cure to the cold. “Legend has it that this essential oil blend was created by thieves during a great plague. The thieves were protected from the plague by rubbing themselves all over with the oil blend before invading the homes of plague victims,” according to urban legend.

“Tea tree oil has been found to exhibit protective activity against bacteria, fungi, and yeast, according to a 2000 study from a German research team.” Not only can this essential oil be used in your diffuser, but also on your chest to help open your sinuses. Apply 10-15 drops on your chest and neck.

Concentration: Peppermint & Lemon

Lemon essential oil is said to support mental clarity and relaxation. It also has significant anti-stress benefits. The smell is both uplifting and energizing. This is the perfect oil for study sessions. Peppermint essential oil is known as the cooling oil. The oil may support concentration and focus, while combatting fatigue.

http://www.umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/treatment/aromatherapy

https://www.organicspamagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/aroma-9061…

https://www.prevention.com/mind-body/natural-remedies/how-lavender-can-help-you-sleep

http://www.doctorshealthpress.com/respiratory-articles/essential-oils-for-cough-cold/