It’s 3 o’clock, you’re sitting at your desk, your mind wandering, energy lagging and you still have deadlines to meet, a zoom meeting with a client and groceries to buy. All your brain can muster though is ‘help.’
The easiest solution? A quick pick-me up in the form of scent. Roll on, spritz, draw a bath or light a candle (if working from home) with these 5 botanical scents to give you the boost you need.
Anti-stress: Lemon
Lotus Aroma Lemon Spray
$21
Lemon oil lessens stress when completing behavioural tasks compared to lavender and rose according to a 2006 study. Translation? Instant mood boost.
Calm: Eucalyptus
Scentuals Eucalyptus Coconut Bath Soak
$14.99
Alongside its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, it also calms the nervous system through the brain according to a 2019 study.
Soothing: Rose
Okanagan Lavender & Herb Farm Hydrosol: Rose
$20.00
Sometimes you need to relax to accomplish your work and rose oil can do just that according to a 2017 analysis. Mist a little on pulse points.
Cognition: Peppermint
Saje Peppermint Halo Headache
Remedy Roll-on
$33
A 2022 study concluded that the essential oil may improve learning and memory. For a quick pick-me-up use a diffuser or brew a cup and soak in the scent.
Alertness: Jasmine
Scentuals Jasmine Essential Oil 10%
$55.95
Daub on a little jasmine oil when you need a lift. According to a limited 2010 Thai study it has a stimulating effect when applied topically.
This original article first appeared in the WINTER 2025 issue of City Style and Living Magazine.
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