Essentials Oils for Conducive Learning Environment

By Caryn Gehlmann, Clinical Aromatherapist

There are many factors to creating a conducive learning environment. You might think of proper lighting, comfortable seating, or good acoustics, but what’s often overlooked is what the learning environment smells like! However, experienced educators have seen the power of scent when it comes to helping students focus. The inspiration for our blend, Alignment, came from two school teachers who were looking for essential oils for a conducive learning environment.

This blend is not just for school-aged children. We all need to create a healthy learning environment at times — at work, in your studio, at your home office and more. Just like you think about your lighting, ergonomics, acoustics, etc, it’s smart to factor in scent. e3 works with many school teachers on how to use aromatherapy as a tool to help students learn and we really value their input. One teacher shared some studies* that were showing promising results with certain essential oils helping prevent viral infection. After investigating these studies, we chose oils that are not only known for their anti-viral properties but also promote a happy, alert atmosphere for learning:

Eucalyptus Globulus: Respiratory congestion, immune support. Gently uplifts and inspires.

Lemon: Infections, poor circulation, immune support. Promotes mental clarity and uplifts mood.

Geranium: Adaptogenic, balancing and soothing, eases feelings of mild depression, calms mood swings, stress, anxiety.

Ravintsara: Immune & lymphatic support, calms and soothes anxious feelings, promotes clear thinking.

Orange Sweet: Poor circulation, calms and soothes nervous tension, uplifts mood, eases worry and mental fatigue.

Initially, we shared the blend with some teachers and we got really positive feedback. Rebekah Lyons, a second-grade teacher in Georgia says, “I have two diffusers I use throughout the day and I’ve seen a huge difference with the kids since I’ve started incorporating aromatherapy. In the morning, they’re full of energy and it can be challenging to get them to calm down and focus. I use a blend Caryn sent me of Geranium and Lemon which is very sweet-smelling and helps the kids shift into learning.” Shift into learning — that was great feedback and so we knew we had a winning blend on our hands for fostering a conducive learning environment!

Then it was time to come up with a name for this new essential oils blend. We thought about it and realized that when we are aligned we’re in a position to learn, grow, and flourish! But this blend isn’t just for the classroom! Anytime you need a stronger mind-body alignment, whether you’re in a yoga class, studying at the library, playing a new instrument, or any other activity that requires more balance and focused attention, e3’s Alignment Blend can help.

Alignment is also a great blend for any public space that could benefit from purifying the air with the diffusion of anti-viral essential oils. It’s recommended that educators consult their school district’s policy before using essential oils in the classroom. Also, no essential oil blend is 100% effective in preventing a viral infection. Please follow the health guidelines recommended by the CDC, your local public health officials, and your school district.

How You Can Use e3 Alignment Blend to Create a Conducive Learning Environment? 

Here are three suggestions to help you enjoy aromatherapy throughout your day:

Diffuse. If you’re in a public space that allows for it, you can use Alignment in a diffuser.

Spritz. You can also mix 30-60 drops of essential oil blend in 4 ounces of water in a mister bottle (or get a pre-mixed spritzer). Simply shake well before each use and spritz in the air to avoid getting the mist into your eyes. A few minutes before students enter the classroom, yoga studio, or any other learning center will help you create a welcoming environment.

Personal inhalation. Maybe you want to bring your aromatherapy with you but you can’t lug a diffuser around all day! Aromatherapy Bracelets are a great solution. Simply place a drop of your favorite essential oil on the lava beads. You, or your child, can wear their bracelet to enjoy the gentle diffusion throughout the day. Aromatherapy Inhalers are another option that can easily be tucked into pockets or backpacks for a quick aromatherapy moment on the go.

We would absolutely love to hear from you about our Alignment blend. How do you like it and how do you use it? Please contact us or join our conversations on Facebook if you have any aromatherapy questions or tips to share with us.

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* To read more, see the studies Geranium and Lemon Essential Oils and Their Active Compounds Downregulate Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2), a SARS-CoV-2 Spike Receptor-Binding Domain, in Epithelial Cells and Essential oils as an effective alternative for the treatment of COVID-19: Molecular interaction analysis of protease (Mpro) with pharmacokinetics and toxicological properties.