The warmer weather is here. We’ve changed-over our closets and put winter clothes away. But have we also considered changing fragrances for perfumes and environment to reflect and harmonize with the new season? With a wonderful collection of essential oils on hand, it’s possible to create beautiful blends that are perfect for summer’s sunny days and a more active outdoor lifestyle.

Some summer favorites are the essential oils of peppermint, lemon and lime. These familiar aromatic friends are found in (or on the rim) of popular cold drinks. They also add a distinctive taste in salad dressings and island-style cuisine. Each conveys a sense of cooling refreshment.

Peppermint has two special summertime benefits: it discourages flying and crawling pests, and when diluted in a blend, misted on neck and wrists, its menthol action is delightfully cooling.

Lemon conveys the sunny brightness of summer days and has a crisp quality that keeps the mind clear and bright.

Lime’s uplifting, refreshing and cheery scent effortlessly overcomes the listlessness that can accompany warm days.

Sublime summer blends include the lighter-scented flowers, like Neroli (orange blossom) and Linden Blossom. Base notes for this season are lighter, too, like Cedar-wood (another flying pest repellent, too) and Australian or Hawaiian Sandalwood. A beautiful bridge note might be cool, calming Lavender, joyful, confident Pettigrain, and/or sweetly balancing Rose Geranium.

Here are some blends for environment and personal fragrance:

Summer Days at Home: for diffusion

• 6 drops Geranium
• 6 drops Lime
• 4 drops Peppermint
• 4 drops Cedar

Sunny Days Perfume

• 6 drops Lemon
• 4 drops May Chang
• 4 drops Pettitgrain
• 4 drops Neroli
• 2 drops Ginger
• 2 drops Sandalwood
• 2 oz carrier oil (i.e. Jojoba)
  
  

You’ll find essence of Lime in Tazeka Aromatherapy’s Rise N' Shine and Motivation vaporizing essential oils blends.

*Steam-distilled Lemon and Lime are best for use on skin.