Essentials Oils for Focus and Attention

Essential Oils for Focus and Attention
Essential Oils have historically been shown to enhance focus and attention. To understand this, first it is best to discuss the olfaction process. The nose is a protrusion of the brain. Scent enters the body in less than 1 second and travels to the pituitary and hypothalamus to tell your body how to respond to a situation. It will help to relax or stimulate. This message is then sent to the rest of the body via the nervous system

A study was conducted where the scent of lemon was diffused in room one while no scent was diffused in room two. The people that were exposed to lemon typed twice as fast and twice as accurate as those with no scent diffused. Other studies have shown increased Beta wave activity in Alzheimer’s patients when lavender is diffused – more alert and focused.

All 100% pure essential oils are antioxidants. They are in a sense CPR for the cells. They activate the body and mind and offer a variety of therapeutic benefits such as antibacterial and antiviral.

I find that the essential oils of rosemary, lemon, red mandarin, peppermint and tei fu are highly beneficial in promoting concentration, focus, memory recall, alertness and maintaining attention.

Rosemary essential oil is one of highest oxygen content essential oils (similar to CoQ10). It has been shown to help specifically with right-sided headaches. It is antibacterial, antiseptic, decongestant, astringent and hypertensive. Rosemary increases blood flow, combats brain fog and mental fatigue and enhances circulation. Emotionally, it may reduce forgetfulness, promote mental clarity and dispel confusion. Known contraindications are high blood pressure, pregnancy and epilepsy.

Lemon essential oil is a citrus oil. All citrus oils are photosensitive. The lemon scent is uplifting and sharp to help one stay focused and alert. It is antiviral, antiseptic, antifungal, diuretic, antibacterial and stomachic. Lemon has been known to help combat sluggishness, especially after eating, balancing pH and increasing white blood cells. Emotionally, it may combat depression, anxiety, jet lag and fatigue.

Red Mandarin essential oil has a sweet, fruity scent. It also, is a citrus essential oil and has been known to help with adrenal fatigue. I personally find that focus, concentration and memory issues may be related to adrenal weakness. Red Mandarin is antibacterial, antispasmodic, digestive and sedative. It is great for children, insomnia, indigestion, acne/oily skin, hiccups and stretch marks. It is also safe for pregnancy along with lavender. Emotionally, it may help with stress, anxiety, shock, nervous tension and moodiness.

Peppermint essential oil offers an invigorating, refreshing and rejuvenating scent to lift spirits and promote energy. It is historically known to aid with headaches and nausea. Peppermint is antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, febrifuge (fever), vasoconstrictive and an expectorant. Emotionally, it may help one take in new ideas (studying), stimulate focus and alertness.
Tei fu essential oil is a Chinese combination of wintergreen and other menthol containing essential oils. It offers a refreshing and uplifting scent. It helps open up the sinuses (breathing increases oxygen flow which may enhance memory and focus) and serves as an expectant. It is helpful to stay awake and alert when driving on long trips. Tei fu relieves aches and pains from sitting, typing or studying to long.

A Focus Attention Recipe that I often use is my Study Buddy Roll-on. I combine 2 drops each of essential oils of peppermint, lemon, red mandarin, rosemary and tei fu in a roll-on bottle with 4 drops Silver Shield liquid and the rest with Nature’s Sunshine Nature’s Fresh (plant-based enzymes).