Do you ever feel like everyone is talking about essential oils? It seems like they're becoming really popular lately, and for good reason! Personally, I don't like taking pills and prefer to use natural remedies whenever possible (like turmeric!). Essential oils can be a great alternative to painkillers for athletes since they can help with common issues without dulling our training.
What is an Essential Oil?
It is important to have a clear understanding of the topic at hand before delving into it. So, let's take a moment to define what we are discussing here.
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that are 50 to 70 times more potent than the herb form. To give you an idea, just one drop of Peppermint Essential Oil is equivalent to drinking 28 cups of peppermint tea!
However, it's crucial to ensure that the essential oils you use are of high quality, just like any other supplement.
How do you use essential oils?
- Put 10 drops in a diffuser for inhalation
- Put 5-10 drops in a bath
- Put 5-10 drops on a hot water-soaked cloth and wrap the injured area
- Dilute essential oil before applying to sore muscles
- Do not ingest (applies to most oils)
- To avoid skin irritation, make sure to dilute the product before applying it. Do not apply directly to the skin.
It is important to note that essential oils are highly concentrated and can be irritating to the skin if not diluted properly. However, some individuals choose to apply a few drops of essential oil directly to their skin without diluting it. While this may work for some, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of the potential risks. It is recommended to dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying them to the skin to reduce the risk of irritation or other adverse reactions.
5 Essential Oils for Athletic Performance
Are you an athlete looking for ways to improve your performance? Essential oils could be just what you need! There are many different types of essential oils that can offer benefits for athletes, from improving lung function to building muscle. While there are many different essential oils to choose from, some are particularly effective for beginners or those looking to achieve specific goals. Let's explore the benefits of essential oils for athletes together!
#1 Peppermint Oil for Athletes
Have you heard about Amby Burfoot's unconventional way of fueling himself while running? He has been sucking on peppermints for a long time, even before oils became popular. It's surprising to know how some athletes have unique ways of boosting their energy levels during workouts.
- Peppermint oil can help reduce indigestion, gas, nausea, and perceived effort during physical activity.
- It can also relieve headaches, aches, and pains caused by arthritis and carpal tunnel.
- Peppermint oil is known to increase mental alertness and concentration, making it a helpful essential oil for studying or working.
Did you know that Peppermint essential oil can boost your exercise performance and help you breathe better while working out? A recent study in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that adding just a tiny amount of Peppermint EO to your water can help improve your respiratory function. However, there are other ways to improve your lung capacity, such as practicing better breathing techniques, yoga, and even swimming.
#2 Lavender Oil for Recovery
Do you love running but find it hard to take days off? Well, you're not alone! Many runners struggle with taking rest days because they love to stay active. However, it's important to understand that our bodies need time to recover from all the stress and strain of running.
If we don't take time to rest, our bodies won't be able to recover properly, and we'll be more prone to injuries. So, it's important to learn how to balance our activity levels to prevent burnout and injuries.
- It can help with pre-race night sleep by relieving stress and promoting relaxation
- It has properties that aid in healing cuts and bruises
- Known to speed up recovery and healing time
- A popular choice for allergy sufferers looking for relief without medication
#3 Lemon Essential Oil for Athlete's Foot
Although some of my friends who are experts in nutrition have recently proven that drinking lemon water doesn't have any detoxifying effects, they all still believe that it can be a refreshing drink with some health benefits. However, it's important to note that drinking lemon water alone won't make you lose weight or become healthier overnight.
- It has been shown to have anti-depressant effects
- Essential oil cure for athlete's foot
- Stimulates the immune system
- Can help with nausea
#4 Eucalyptus Essential Oil for Asthma
Eucalyptus Essential Oil has a lovely scent that can make you feel relaxed and refreshed like you're in a spa. But it does much more than that! It can also help you feel healthier, promote well-being, purify the air around you, and even speed up the healing process.
- Inhaling it can promote healthy respiratory function.
- A few drops on the chest can alleviate symptoms of asthma.
- It can be used in a spray bottle to cool the body during summer training
- It can wake up the body after traveling to destination races
- It reduces inflammation in strained and fatigued muscles.
#5 Lemongrass Essential Oil for Sore Muscles
When I first discovered this oil, I was amazed by how it helped me feel better after long runs or when my muscles felt tired. I apply a few drops, which helps release the tension, making me feel more relaxed.
- It can help with muscle relaxation, headache relief, period cramps, stomachaches, and joint pain relief.
- Has natural antiseptic properties, which makes it useful for cuts.
- It can also be used to make natural deodorant at home.
Want to make your post-run Epsom salt bath even better? Just add a few drops of lemongrass oil! It'll make it smell amazing and feel even more relaxing.
A Word From SACKSY THYME
In conclusion, essential oils can be a great addition to an athlete's training routine. From improving lung function to aiding in recovery, essential oils offer a variety of benefits that can enhance athletic performance. However, it's important to remember that essential oils are highly concentrated and should be used with caution.
Always dilute them properly and avoid ingesting them without consulting a healthcare professional. With proper use, essential oils can be a natural and effective way to support your athletic goals.