Your sense of smell can be a powerful tool for lifting your mood, treating aches and pains, and relaxing your mind and spirit during even the most stressful of times. Our remembrance of certain smells can bring back fond memories of pleasant events.

Although research is still being completed to confirm the medical benefits of various essential oils, it’s almost certain that scents may have the power to calm you down, wake you up, or loosen tight or knotted muscles. Drop a few of these essential oils in your next hot bath or blend a small amount into a lotion or oil for a heavenly massage aid, then follow your nose to sensual bliss!

Lavender: The ultimate relaxing oil, lavender oil is thought to also be helpful in treating wounds and burns, and generally improving the look and feel of your skin.

Lemon/citrus: Citrus scents are very uplifting yet calming. The oils can be helpful in caring for wounds and infections, and the scent of lemon is great for cleaning and deodorizing your home.

Clary sage: This scent is very relaxing and may work to balance your hormones. Because it’s a natural painkiller, you can also try clary sage oil to help relieve muscular aches and pains.

Rosemary: Stimulating and uplifting, rosemary wakes up your mind and may give your immune system a boost. It’s also been used to stimulate the digestive system and to help lessen muscle tension.

Geranium: The fragrance of geranium can be both relaxing and uplifting. Some people theorize that geranium may have antidepressant and female-hormone-balancing properties, though these have not been scientifically proven.