Summertime Aromatherapy

guest post by: Dominique Cerqueda

One hot summer 15 years ago, I walked into a wonderful-smelling herbal shop tucked away in the leafy streets of Shanghai’s French Concession, and my love for essential oils began. That charming shop introduced me to the wonders of aromatherapy and a magical world opened up to me. Fast forward to today, I feel lucky to finally be pursuing my passion and studying an L1 certification course at the Aromatherapy Institute of the Philippines, learning valuable skills in the growing holistic and therapeutic field of aromatherapy.

Thinking back to that memorable summer, it’s amazing how much essential oils have become a huge part of my life since then. And as summer approaches the Philippines this month, and a lot of us head to the beach, it’s always a great idea to have the right aromatherapy companions in tow! Nature-trekking and island hopping are super fun, but also often come with the usual hassles of insect bites, tummy troubles, motion sickness and sunburn. It’s best to be prepared!

Here are some aromatherapy summer suggestions:
• Peppermint essential oil
I love this oil for its powerful cooling effects and awesome digestive support. On a very hot day, I place 1-2 drops of Peppermint oil mixed with coconut oil or aloe vera gel on the back of my neck, and it cools me down right away. Eating in unfamiliar places may also give us tummy upsets. If that happens, I find that putting 1-2 drops of Peppermint oil with a little carrier oil on the stomach can bring great relief.

• DIY Tea Tree BUG BITE Salve
Tea tree has incredible antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-fungal properties. I recently made a tiny salve out of it (in a little white pot) for insect bites or minor scrapes. The salve is made of tea tree, lavender, and peppermint essential oils. If you don’t know how to make your own salve yet, no worries, as you can simply bring a small (5ml/10ml) bottle of tea tree essential oil and apply it neat on the skin as an antiseptic remedy.

• DIY Anti-Vertigo Roller
I’m currently doing my case studies for my course, and one of the products I made for my husband (who is often plagued with vertigo) is an Anti-Vertigo roller (10ml). I decided to keep an extra one for myself as it also prevents nausea on long road trips or boat rides. It consists of frankincense, peppermint, ginger, and orange essential oils in a sweet almond oil base. Just a quick roll behind the ears helps a lot!

• AMIHAN SunBug Sunscreen SPF30 (with citronella oil)
We should always protect our skin from sun damage and wear proper sunscreen daily, especially at the beach. Made with citronella, lavender, and carrot seed essential oils, I’m addicted to this eco sunscreen! It has no harmful chemicals and since it has citronella essential oil, it also doubles as an insect repellant. How good is that?!

• Ylang-Ylang essential oil
This remains one of my favorite essential oils, plus it’s from a plant endemic to the Philippines. I find Ylang-Ylang’s sensual, exotic aroma simply intoxicating. Both uplifting and relaxing, it’s the perfect oil for the tropics. Its aphrodisiac properties are also perfect for a romantic date night with your partner. Simply put 1-2 drops on the pulse points, feel the island love vibes and enjoy!

Happy summer, everyone!

Dominique “Dom” has been a passionate user of essential oils for many years. She has a degree in Organizational Communications from DLSU and has mainly worked in the fields of marketing, publishing, freelance writing and copy editing. Her goal is to become a certified aromatherapist, so she can help educate anyone interested about the joy of essential oils.  She dreams of starting an online aromatherapy magazine someday and to hopefully make her own line of products.  Dom shuttles between El Nido (Palawan) and Manila with her husband Marc, a hotelier who shares her love for essential oils, food and travel. Dom is a L1 student of our PH Aromatherapy Certification Program at the Aromatherapy Institute of the Philippines.

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