Hello lovely Bloomers, it's been a wee while since I posted anything essential oil related on here but as you can imagine the run up to Xmas, attending local fairs and events, and staying on top of online orders has been a little challenging! Combine that with my current 'time of life' (ie menopause) and a possible case of chronic fatigue related to the after effects of that pesky Covid virus and well, let's just say that I'm not running on full cylinders.
From talking to friends and customers at my two most recent local fairs though, it seems that I am not alone. As the seasons transition from Autumn to Winter it is incredibly (and I mean INCREDIBLY) common to feel mentally exhausted and unable to think clearly.
The mental juggle of the Christmas season just seems to excerbate all of the above for so many, and if like me, you are the head honcho in your household when it comes to Christmas organisation then quite frankly you are going to NEED a few tips that offer up a helping hand.
So this post is all about how we can use essential oils for mental clarity, brain fog, feelings of mental cloudiness and dog tired mental fatigue.
Essential oils to the rescue once again!
First off though, what exactly is brain fog and mental cloudiness and how does it impact on our day to day lives?
Brain fog is a term used to describe a set of symptoms that affect cognitive functions, such as memory, concentration, and mental clarity. It can affect people of all ages, and contrary to common belief both genders - it's not just something that affects menopausal women! It can feel like a mental cloudiness or lack of sharpness that makes it difficult to focus or think clearly. Names of things can escape you, or even things you've just heard said to you. You might have a list of to do's to keep you a bit more organised, but then the list gets put down and you can't remember where you've put it. You might feel like you're going a little mad. But you aren't. Hold tight. There is often a valid and easy to understand cause.
Brain fog is often reported by those dealing with stress, anxiety, or exhaustion which is why it's no suprise that it rears it's head more commonly at this time of the year when we all have so much more to do. It is also commonly associated with certain medical conditions, such as chronic fatigue syndrome, long covid, fibromyalgia, and autoimmune disorders. Additionally, and probably most reported, it comes on when hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy or menopause, can cause a surge in scattered and forgetful types of thinking.
Lifestyle factors also play a key role. Lack of sleep and dehydration are two factors that can exacerbate symptoms, alongwith a sugar rich poor diet. In a nutshell, addressing lifestyle changes, managing stress, and ensuring adequate rest can often help alleviate the symptoms and improve overall cognitive function.
But that's easier said than done right? And if these are things you've already tried to implement and are STILL feeling frazzled and foggy then what? Essential oils to of course!
Essential oils can play a unique role in brain fatigue. The are able to access the brain quickly and easily via inhalation - straight to the olfactory processing centre and into the brain via the limbic system. Hence why a deep inhalation of Rosemary oil can instantly make you feel more invigorated and energised: it takes less than seconds for the oil molecules to make their journey to the brain.
The following cephalic oils are great for mind stimulation and clarity:
- Peppermint Oil: Known for its invigorating and refreshing scent, peppermint oil can help to sharpen your mind and boost your energy levels, making it easier to concentrate on tasks.
- Rosemary Oil: This essential oil is often used to improve memory and cognitive function. Its stimulating properties can help increase alertness and reduce mental fatigue (not to be used during pregnancy or if you suffer from medically managed high blood pressure)
- Lemon Oil: With its bright and uplifting aroma, lemon oil can enhance your mood and promote a clear mind, aiding in better concentration and productivity.
- Eucalyptus Oil - all varieties. This oil can help uncloud foggy thoughts and improve focus by promoting better respiratory function, which in turn ensures your brain gets plenty of oxygen.
- Cardamom oil: with a clear and spicy sweet aroma, this oil is particularly useful when weakness accompanies the feelings of fatigue. Know among aromatherapists for helping to clear confusion from the mind. (caution use if you have sensitive skin)
- Basil: With a sharp and pungent aroma, this herbal oil is known for its stimulating ability to clear the mind, provide clarity and focus concentration (not to be used during pregnancy, and caution for use with sensitive skin)
I would always advise using these oils in a diffuser or steam inhalation if the symptoms are brain and mental fatigue related. A few drops (up to 8 in a diffuser, up to 4 in a steam inhalation) will set you up. A steam inhalation in the morning is a great way to start the day, and not only will the above oils invigorate you but they all have antimicrobial and antibacterial properties so will keep you healthy and well, when the coughs and colds are doing their rounds.
And finally - I nearly forgot! - a few words on Where Was I? A blend I have created for menopausal brain fog.
If you are looking for a pre-blended oil specifically created for menopausal brain fog then head to our Where Was I? oil blend listing. This blend contains Fennel, which in turn contains a phytoestrogen compound that is useful for balancing the roller coaster of oestrogen release that is found during the perimenopause, along with some other oils that are great for boosting mental clarity. Find out more here
As always, if you have any medical condition - high blood pressure, epilepsy and especially if you are pregnant, do check with a clinical aromatherapist before you embark on applying oils or using oils. Although from 'nature' these oils can be potent!