Essential Oils for Weight Loss

Essential oils might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of weight loss, but we must remember that essential oils have been used for thousands of years as a natural alternative versus traditional medicine. 

If you are looking for a more natural alternative to support your weight loss goals. You might find that adding essential oils to your weight loss regimen may be able to provide a number of additional benefits.

How Can Essential Oils Benefit in Weight Loss?  

Remember that essential oils are not the cure-all solution that will magically make you lose weight. It is still recommended that you must eat a well-balanced diet and include physical activity. But in this article, you will learn the unique properties and benefits that certain essential oils have that may benefit your weight-loss efforts. 

In humans, essential oils have been shown to have the following properties and benefits: 

• energize 
• improve digestion 
• curb food cravings 
• correct cellulite or stretch marks 
• relieve tension 
• calming effects 

Essential Oils for Weight Loss 

1. Peppermint 

energy level booster, food craving suppressor, muscle soother 

Peppermint oil is a fantastic way to boost those energy levels before and after a workout. A study concluded that peppermint essential oil aroma was effective at increasing effort and cognitive performance.

Topically, peppermint oil is also well-known for its' anti-inflammatory effects. Add 5-10 drops into your bathwater to help soothe those achy muscles. For a cooling effect, you can rub a small amount on your temples or behind the neck - this feels so refreshing after a tough workout is completed! 

Simply inhaling the aroma of peppermint oil works as a great suppressor for bad food cravings. In a 2008 study from Wheeling Jesuit University, volunteers took a whiff of peppermint every 2 hours for 5 days and ended up eating approximately 360 fewer calories per day versus days they did not inhale the peppermint. 

2. Lemon 

energizes, supports healthy digestion

Lemon essential oil and water, is just like lemon in water. Research shows that the oil can help remove toxin buildup from the body and can also help to detoxify the body by stimulating the liver, which can help balance your metabolism and digestion. 

There has also been research that has shown that breathing in the aroma of lemon essential oil can energize and boost your mood, while also promoting the breakdown of body fat. To do this, you can add 2-3 drops of lemon essential oil into your diffuser. 

Citrus essential oils are great in supporting weight loss. A study demonstrated that the flavor of the citron group increased sympathetic nerve activity in rats, which suggests an increase in lipolysis and a suppression in body weight gain.   

3. Cinnamon 

helps reduce sugar cravings, helps stabilize blood sugar levels, raises metabolism 

Cinnamon is considered one of the best essential oils for weight loss. Cinnamon oil has been shown to help regulate blood glucose levels, which helps balance blood sugar. When stabilizing blood sugar levels, sugar cravings become decreased which can help in keeping your weight loss goals. Adding a few drop to smoothies or oat meal can help with slowing the rate that glucose is released. 

There was also a study done by the University of Michigan, which found that cinnamaldehyde (an essential oil that gives cinnamon its flavor)  improves metabolic health by acting directly on fat cells - this process is called thermogenesis. We recommend you can dilute cinnamon bark oil in a topical carrier, which you can then massage along the abdomen region or lower back area. 

Aromatically, Cinnamon is also loved by many and can uplift one's mood, which can make them feel energized. MOXĒ's Happy Essential Oil Nasal Inhaler makes a perfect on-the-go companion when needing a boost. This feel good blend combines cinnamon, thyme, fennel, and sage.

4. Bergamot 

mood booster, cholesterol level reducer, fat oxidizer 

Bergamot essential oil is quite a unique essential oil and it is characterized by its' high content of limonene, linalool, and linanyl acetate. In several clinical studies, aromatherapy using bergamot essential oils showed promising results like anxiety and stress reduction, anti‐depression, pain relief, and blood pressure reduction. When factors like these are improved, your weight loss journey becomes more improved. 

Bergamot also contains a powerful antioxidant called a flavonoid. This super ingredient has the ability to reduce cholesterol level based on human studies. It was also noted that bergamot was credited for raising good cholesterol, removing fatty deposits in the liver and lowering blood sugar levels.

We recommend you can use bergamot essential oils by diluting it in a warm bath or smelling the aromas when stressed or tempted to eat. To learn more about bergamot, check out our most recent blog, Bergamot Essential Oil Uses and Benefits.

Conclusion

The most common way to focus on your weight loss goals is to follow a healthy and balanced diet, as well as, adding exercise into your daily routine. Furthermore, incorporating essential oils into your weight loss routine through aromatherapy or topically may contribute beneficial factors. 

Before looking further into the essential oils discussed in this article, ensure you read about any potential side effects and look for "therapeutic grade" essential oils before incorporating any into your weight loss plan. 

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