Essential oils are not only effective for supporting healthy cellular function and stimulating the body’s natural immune response when you are feeling sick, but they are also remarkably useful for addressing everyday complications or minor inconveniences that often result from sports or exercise. We know that physical activity is very beneficial to long term health, but strenuous efforts from a hobby like running can often leave us feeling tired, fatigued, and downright sore. Following is a list of 12 for runners!
- Marjoram Oil has properties that promote relaxation and help to alleviate muscle tension. If you are feeling rather stiff following an eventful run, rub marjoram along the calves and quadriceps to help loosen up the tissues and alleviate that tightness.
- Helichrysum Oil oil has the ability to block up to 20% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays, and for that reason, it is the most common EO recommended for DIY sunscreen. In addition to preventing sunburn, helichrysum moisturizes and nourishes our skin cells which is especially important for runners who sweat out a lot of fluids.
- Citronella Oil is widely recognized as a natural bug repellant. It also has natural deodorizing properties, so mixing a few drops of citronella oil with coconut oil makes an effective, cheap and all-natural deodorant. You can also add a drop or two to a foot soak for eliminate foot odor.
- Less known for it’s bug repellant properties, Clove Oil gave the longest duration of 100% repellency (2-4 h) against all three species of mosquito in an analysis of the comparative repellency of 38 essential oils against mosquito bites. It also has a stimulating effect on the mind and may help to reduce mental exhaustion and fatigue.
- Lemongrass Oil (a personal favorite) naturally soothes exercise induced discomfort, makes a refreshing foot bath, and naturally repels mosquitoes.
- Peppermint Oil can be applied to your forehead, shoulders, wrists, and neck to help you cool down after an exceptionally hot run. It also helps soothe muscle fatigue.
- Lavender oil is great for relaxing and winding down. Add a few drops to your bath or to your foot soak to relieve skin irritation from your running shoes!
- Tea Tree Oil is a natural antiseptic and data supports that Tea Tree Oil also has antimicrobial properties and studies also point the antifungal properties of Tea Tree Oil . Try adding Tea Tree Oil to your foot soak to promote overall foot health.
- Roman Chamomile Oil is beneficial when added to massage oil for relief of muscle discomfort after exercise. Try adding a few drops of Roman Chamomile oil, with a few drops of lavender oil, to hot water for an ah-maz-ing foot soak.
- Wintergreen Oil is beneficial in massage for soothing muscles after exercising.
- Young Living also has an exclusive blend, PanAway, which is comprised of wintergreen, helichrysum, clove and peppermint. This unprecedented combination is recommended for addressing minor aches and discomforts, which makes it a must have for athletes. PanAway is an effortless choice that addresses several common problems that runners experience.
- Another exclusive Young Living blend is the INFUSED Fitness™ Inspired by Oola essential oil blend has been specially formulated to uplift, energize, and give you the inspiration to set and achieve your strength and fitness goals.
Which ones have you tried?
*Disclaimer: This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Great post, Virginia! 🙂 Thanks for sharing!
Thanks, Rachel!
This is very interesting. I had no idea how many uses these oils have.
I love Lemongrass, I have yet to use it in oil form, but I love it in my tea, and in my skin care products.
Interesting article … I may have to use some of these in my morning runs soon!
This is a great list that I will have to keep in mind for when I can get back to running again!
I think a lavender oil is a must for everyone 🙂 really helps you relax and calms you down!!
thanks! xoxoxo