Homes can sometimes have unpleasant odors from pets, kids, and daily activities. Instead of using artificial air fresheners that just cover up smells with chemicals, consider these three natural methods I use to keep the air fresh and inviting at home.
Smells, whether natural or artificial, can impact how we feel emotionally. When we inhale a scent, molecules reach the amygdala, the part of the brain that handles emotions. That’s why certain smells, like gingerbread, can remind us of festive times like Christmas. Since these molecules go straight to the brain, it’s crucial to be mindful of what we breathe in.
While artificial fragrances might seem appealing, they can be harmful. According to research by the National Resource Defense Council, most air fresheners contain chemicals that may lead to hormone imbalances, birth defects, or reproductive issues.
On the flip side, inhaling essential oils can positively influence your mind and mood. Oils like lavender and vetiver are calming, and citrus oils can uplift your spirits.
When making natural air fresheners at home, it’s important to create a balanced mix. Artificial fragrances use synthetic chemicals to maintain their scent, but essential oils tend to evaporate quickly due to their natural properties.
To address this, certain essential oils act as “base” notes, which are heavier and help the scent last longer, balancing the lighter “top” notes.
Homemade air fresheners use a mix of top, middle, and base notes to create scents that linger longer than others. Although they won’t last as long as synthetic ones, they offer tangible benefits and make your home smell great.
Preferences vary, so here are four natural air freshener recipes to try; they’re simple enough to make different blends for various mood benefits.
For essential oils, I usually shop from recognized sources that provide organic options and discounts. They also offer oils on Amazon with links included in the individual recipes.
One blend features energizing orange and lemon essential oils. Sweet orange lifts the mood and offers strong anti-fungal properties. Lemon not only kills bacteria and viruses but also enhances alertness and calms anger. Ginger positively stimulates the mind, helping alleviate depression.
Floral scents are calming and reduce anxiety. Lavender is known for healing wounds and relieving stress and sadness. Geranium is a robust cleanser, effective against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Ylang ylang is grounding for this air freshener, often used to ease fear and anxiety.
Another blend offers a woodsy scent with a grounding mood. Juniper berry reduces apathy and adds freshness. Cypress helps with grief and apathy, cleansing the air with its antibacterial and antiviral properties, while cedarwood grounds the blend.
Patchouli, often associated with hippies, has antifungal and antibacterial effects, purifying the air. Grapefruit is cleansing and elevates the mood. Clary sage balances mood swings related to depression or apathy.
These are simple to make with just two steps. They also work well as diffuser blends. If you want to keep closets, drawers, and gym bags smelling fresh, try making DIY sachets with essential oils and herbs.
How do you freshen the air in your home? What scents do you enjoy most?
