Essential oils aren’t able to directly promote weight loss but they can support other factors that can affect weight loss such as appetite, energy levels and emotional stress. Make sure NOT to ingest the essential oils; you either inhale them o apply topically with adequate dilution. Let’s have a look at how the following essential oils can help:
Peppermint
Its cooling and refreshing scent leaves the senses feeling energized. It stimulates cognitive function for better focus, productivity and memory recollection, combats irritability, nerves and tension, reduces nausea and suppresses appetite, which would be beneficial in curbing cravings. It is also good for topical use to relieve sore and aching muscles post workout.
Sage
If you are doing yoga, breathing exercises or stretching, sage essential oil is a good choice as it can facilitate relaxation and more relaxed breathing. Its crisp and green aroma combats congestion, fatigue, nausea, headaches and mood swings which in turn can help you feel more grounded and may help reduce or break the habit of stress or emotional eating.
Grapefruit
With its vibrant and zesty scent, grapefruit essential oil is wonderful to diffuse at the start or your day or before working out for a little pick me up. It improves your mood and boosts mental energy for a more productive day. Using it topically can help boost the body’s natural detoxification process and may even help with cellulite, but make sure to only use it at night.
Bergamot
Another essential oil from the citrus family that can be of assistance to promoting weight loss is the toxin fighting bergamot. Its complex and invigorating scent contains expectorant properties to clear the nasal passageway to loosen and clear congestion, while its carminative properties supports the metabolism and aids the digestive system and detoxification process.
Rosemary
Inhaling its sweet and herbaceous scent can be helpful for your respiratory health and immune system as it helps clear the respiratory tract to assist with congestion and easier breathing. Furthermore, topical application of rosemary essential oil supports the body’s natural detoxification process, aids with digestion and soothes tired muscles.
Fennel
You may want to consider fennel essential oil as on top providing relief for abdominal discomfort and being able to boost cognitive function for enhanced focus and mental clarity, it has been reported to be helpful with suppressing appetite, reducing fluid retention and cellulite.
Coffee
Although a common drink for weight loss, it’s not for everyone. Coffee essential oil on the other hand, is much more tolerable and is a great alternative for those who cannot take caffeine. Diffuse it for an energy boost, especially before your workout, and you can use it post workout topically on sore and tired muscles. It also has astringent properties, which is good for cellulite.
With all this being said, one shouldn’t rely strictly on essential oils to lose weight. Your best bet is still to exercise and do the exercises that you enjoy, while having a non-restrictive diet that is nutritious, delicious and is in sync with your goals.