5 Essential Oils for Weight Loss
Essential oils are a popular natural remedy and can be used for everything from promoting alertness and concentration at work to encouraging a restful night’s sleep, and so much more. Different oils can be diffused, applied topically (usually with a carrier oil like jojoba oil), or inhaled, depending on the oil and the effects you’re hoping to achieve.
I personally love diffusing oils like grapefruit, sandalwood, and lavender during the day to help me relax and focus and calming blends at night to help me sleep. I also love to use a couple of drops of peppermint oil in my water, and use oils like lavender and blue tansy in my skin products to keep me skin calm and clear.
Because of their many benefits, essential oils can also be part of a holistic approach to sustainable weight loss. Here are five essential oils that can support you on your weight loss journey:
Fennel - Great for digestion and can help balance hormones due to its estrogen-like properties. Can be diffused, inhaled directly, or applied topically.
Grapefruit - Grapefruit is best known for its ability to suppress cravings and target cellulite. It’s also been shown to blast fat cells (it’s true!), lift mood, and aid in detoxification. Diffuse or inhale directly for mood and appetite suppressing effects; apply directly (with a carrier oil) to areas of concern to target cellulite.
Lemon - 1-2 drops of lemon essential oil can be used in lieu of lemon in water to aid digestion and detoxification (use an EO made for ingestion like Young Living’s Vitality line). It can also be diffused or inhaled directly for mood-boosting benefits.
Peppermint - Peppermint is amazing for digestion and may also boost satiety (sensation of fullness after a meal) and suppress appetite. Can be ingested (1-2 drops in a glass of water), infused, inhaled directly, or applied topically (try applying to abdomen or temples).
Frankincense - This ancient oil has so many uses but is especially beneficial as an antidepressant and for its grounding effects. Can be diffused, inhaled directly, or applied topically.
It’s also helpful to identify your personal overeating triggers in order to take a more targeted approach. If you’re a stress eater, you may benefit from a relaxing oil like lavender. If you tend to eat more when you’re feeling down or depressed, an oil known to boost your mood like bergamot (one of my favorites!!) can be added to your collection.
It’s nice to have a variety to turn to depending on your mood or desires, but these are a great start to support your wellness and weight loss goals.
P.S. If you’re looking for high quality oils, I currently use and love Mountain Rose Herbs. They offer a variety of oils and blends and also sell herbal teas and other products, so they’re my one-stop shop! I have also used Young Living and like their oils and blends (I switched because Mountain Rose Herbs offers sustainable packaging and sells other products that I use).