The Benefits of Essential Oils in Soaps
- FOKUS
- Nov 7, 2024
- 3 min read
Advantages for Mind and Body
At Fokus, we believe in using ingredients that are natural, safe, and effective. Essential oils are at the heart of our soaps—not only do they smell amazing, but they also offer benefits for both mind and body. But if you’re wondering, “Can a scent really change how I feel?” we get it. It’s a fair question! Here, we’ll explain how essential oils work, why they’re valuable, and share some of the science behind their benefits.
What Are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are concentrated liquids extracted from plants. They contain the natural compounds of each plant, capturing its unique scent and properties. Different oils can help with different needs: some promote calmness, while others can help cleanse the skin or boost focus. Essential oils have been used for centuries, from ancient Egypt to China, where they were prized for their wellness benefits. Today, science is beginning to explore how and why they work, and the results are promising.
How Do Essential Oils Work?
Essential oils can work in two main ways. First, their scents interact directly with the brain’s emotional centre through the olfactory system (our sense of smell). This connection helps explain why certain scents can make us feel calm, refreshed, or focused almost instantly. Second, when used in soap, essential oils come into contact with the skin, where some oils may deliver benefits directly to the body.
Mind Benefits: Calming Scents for a Busy World
Our sense of smell is closely tied to our emotions and memories. Essential oils in soaps can turn everyday moments—like washing your hands or showering—into a time of calm or focus.
Lavender: Known for its soothing effects, lavender is widely used to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Studies published in Frontiers in Behavioural Neuroscience have shown that lavender can help calm the nervous system, making it popular for promoting better sleep and relaxation. [1]
Peppermint: Fresh and minty, peppermint is a natural pick-me-up. Research indexed on PubMed found that peppermint scent improved alertness and concentration in test subjects, making it great for a morning energy boost. [2]
Lemongrass: With its clean, citrusy aroma, lemongrass is often used to lift mood and reduce tension. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine supports lemongrass as a gentle stress reliever, perfect for a refreshing moment in a busy day. [3]
Body Benefits: More Than Just Nice Scents
Essential oils in soaps do more than smell good. Many of them offer physical benefits for the skin and body, helping to keep skin healthy and refreshed.
Tea Tree: Known for its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, tea tree oil is often used to help with blemish-prone skin. Research shows that tea tree oil is effective against a range of bacteria, making it ideal for promoting clear, healthy skin. [4]
Eucalyptus: This oil’s fresh, cool scent is great for respiratory support. Eucalyptus oil is known to have anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties, which can help with breathing and provide a soothing experience, especially in the shower. Studies in Phytotherapy Research suggest eucalyptus may help ease sore muscles and congestion. [5]
Why Choose Essential Oil-Based Soaps?
When you choose a soap made with essential oils, you’re opting for natural scents with real benefits, rather than artificial fragrances. Essential oils offer an authentic sensory experience and bring beneficial properties to each wash. At Fokus, we are committed to using quality, transparent ingredients that you can trust. We want every product you use to feel like a small, meaningful ritual, helping you reconnect with nature through each wash.
Wrapping It Up
Whether or not you believe in aromatherapy, essential oils in soaps are an easy way to bring a bit of calm, clarity, or energy into your day. Try one of our essential oil soaps and see how it fits into your life—it could be a little lift in the morning or a calming ritual at night. In the end, it’s often the smallest things that bring us the most joy.
