Summer First Aid: Five Essential Oils to Keep Close This Season
Summer invites us outdoors to enjoy sunshine, gardening, hiking, family vacations, and more. Along with these adventures often come the inevitable bumps, bites, scrapes, and sun exposure that are part of the season.
Having a few well-chosen essential oils on hand can provide simple, natural support for many common summer concerns. While essential oils are not a substitute for appropriate medical care, they can be wonderful additions to your summer first aid kit when used safely and thoughtfully.
Here are five of my favorite summer companions.
- Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
A soothing oil, Lavender remains one of the most versatile essential oils for summer.
Helpful for minor skin irritation, mild sun exposure, insect bites, relaxation after a long day outdoors
A drop diluted in a carrier oil or unscented lotion may help soothe irritated skin while providing a calming aroma for both body and mind.
- Peppermint (Mentha × piperita)
After spending time in the summer heat, peppermint offers a refreshing cooling sensation.
Helpful for feeling overheated, tension headaches, mental fatigue. travel fatigue
Always dilute before applying to the skin, and avoid applying near the face of infants or young children. A personal inhaler can also provide an invigorating boost during long drives or outdoor activities.
- Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)
Tea Tree is a wonderful addition to any first aid kit because of its cleansing properties.
Helpful for minor cuts and scrapes, insect bites, skin irritations
Dilute appropriately before topical application. Remember that essential oils should never be applied to deep wounds or replace proper wound care.
- Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile)
Roman Chamomile is especially helpful for sensitive skin and for calming both the body and emotions after a busy summer day.
Helpful for mild skin irritation, sun-exposed skin, restlessness after travel, bedtime relaxation
Its gentle nature makes it a favorite for many families when properly diluted.
- Lemon (Citrus limon)
Summer schedules can be full, and Lemon offers an uplifting aroma that promotes a sense of freshness and clarity.
Helpful for mental fatigue, creating an uplifting atmosphere, freshening rooms while traveling
Safety Note: Lemon essential oil expressed from the peel can be phototoxic. Avoid direct sunlight or UV exposure on skin where expressed Lemon oil has been applied for at least 12–18 hours. Steam-distilled Lemon does not carry this same concern.
Build Your Own Summer Rescue Blend
Try this simple diffuser blend after a day outdoors:
- 3 drops Lavender
- 2 drops Lemon
- 2 drops Peppermint
The result is refreshing, calming, and perfect for creating a peaceful atmosphere after a busy summer day.
For topical use, always dilute essential oils in an appropriate carrier oil before application.
Submitted by Deb Reis, ISHA Director of the Aromatherapy Programs
