Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, running can be a challenge. It is physically demanding as it requires stamina, endurance and focus. Here is a list of essential oils that runners can benefit from, that can help provide relief for aching muscles, improve quality of sleep and manage the musky smell of your running shoes.
Eucalyptus
Inhaling eucalyptus has an energizing effect on the body. It boosts cognitive performance for enhanced focus and alertness, clears the nasal passageway for easier breathing and reduces fatigue and sluggishness. Adding a cotton ball infused with a few drops of eucalyptus in your shoes and workout bag will also help eliminate or reduce heavy odors.
Ravintsara
Aromatically, it is very similar to eucalyptus and shares similar respiratory benefits. However, its advantages don’t stop there. Diffusing ravintsara has a soothing effect on the nerves. It reduces stress, promotes mental clarity as well as better sleep. Furthermore, it strengthens the immune system to help fight infections and free radicals. It is also soothing for aching muscles when applied topically.
Palmarosa
This is another great oil to use for boosting your immunity. Take advantage of its delightful aroma by incorporating it in a spray or roller bottle. Use it to spray your exercise locker and shoes, roll on areas that require pain relief or use it as a perfume when you’re not running. At the end of the day, apply palmarosa topically on minor wounds and aching muscles. Diffuse it to encourage relaxed breathing, diminish general fatigue and irritability.
Peppermint
The menthol present in peppermint provides a cooling sensation when applied onto the skin, soothing muscle soreness and spasms. You may add a few drops to a small dark colored roll-on glass bottle filled with your choice of carrier oil and roll it on desired areas. You can also inhale it to manage headaches, sluggishness and nausea.
Chamomile
Both German and Roman chamomile are gentle oils that can be used both via inhalation, topical massage and bath therapy. Its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties makes it beneficial for overworked and tired muscles, whereas its naturally calming nature encourages earlier and deeper onset of sleep.
Helichrysum
The anti-inflammatory properties are useful for preventing the bacteria on wounds from growing and spreading, relieving sprained muscles and improving poor blood circulation. Incorporate it in a warm or cold compress, and you can also combine it with aloe vera for sunburns.
Frankincense
The versatility of frankincense oil can be utilized in the form of diffusion, massage, bath therapy, warm and cold compress. Its anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties will benefit overexerted muscles, reduce swelling and promote the speedy recovery of wounds if any. Its sedating properties make it ideal to be used to unwind after a long day and to drift to sleep more easily.
Although this article is about essential oils that are helpful for runners, anyone can enjoy the medicinal and therapeutic nature of essential oils when used with precaution and used in moderation. If you have doubts or a medical condition, definitely consult a qualified aromatherapist or health care professional.