The words ‘essential oils’ and ‘aromatherapy’ tend to have feminine connotations, however, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
There are quite a few “masculine” oils that can be useful to any guy who’s looking to feel better, sleep better, think better, and just perform better.
Essential oils (EOs) are highly concentrated plant extracts containing active chemicals that can help you achieve more physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Research shows EOs offer multiple health benefits like:
- Helping improve sleep quality
- Calming anxiety
- Boosting your mood
- Lowering inflammation
- Allergy symptoms relief
- Boosting immunity
- Headaches
- Relieving pain and discomfort
- Hair growth
- Improved focus and productivity
- Higher energy levels
The Most Masculine Essential Oils
While all essential oils are suitable for men, the following oils have more of a traditional “masculine” scent profile if that’s what you’re looking for.
Vetiver oil
This oil has an earthy, smoky scent that’s used in several men’s cologne and grooming products. Vetiver oil can help increase energy levels, improve focus and concentration, and can also relieve sore muscles and joints.
Sandalwood oil
Sandalwood essential oil is great for mental clarity and improved memory. It’s also a powerful anti-inflammatory that may double as an aphrodisiac.
Cedarwood oil
This woodsy smelling oil a strong antibacterial and antifungal. It can help relieve tension while also improving focus. It can help stimulate hair growth too.
Black Spruce oil
This evergreen tree creates an aromatic effect that can reduce stress, enhance breathing, and improve mood and mental clarity.
Fir Balsam oil
This warming oil is the stuff Christmas trees smell of. It can help boost your mood, improve circulation, lower inflammation, and improve sleep quality.
Black pepper oil
This spicy, warming oil is also widely used in many men’s colognes and products. Black pepper can be an effective pain reliever, especially for sprains and muscle pain. It’s also great for detoxing and has even been found to help reduce cigarette cravings amongst smokers.
Bergamot oil
This uplifting citrus oil is what gives Earl Gray tea its punch. It’s useful for relieving anxiety and can even act as a natural anti-depressant. It helps improve lymphatic drainage and digestive function.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is a powerful antibacterial, antifungal, and antiseptic that can also help deodorize even the most stubborn sneakers or gym bag. Tea tree is great for accelerating the healing of wounds and open sores.
Other EOs that are useful for guy’s health:
- Copaiba
- Chamomile
- Cypress
- Frankincense
- Grapefruit
- Ginger
- Lemongrass
- Peppermint
How To Use Essential Oils If You’re A Guy
- You can add 12-16 drops of EO to a diffuser for better focus, creativity, concentration, or rest.
- You can also create your own massage oil by diluting 2-3 drops of EO per 1 teaspoon of carrier oil like jojoba oil or coconut oil.
- Add 2-7 drops of your favorite EO to your shampoo and conditioner for a nice boost.
- Add 2-5 drops of EO to cotton balls and place them in your drawers or inside your gym shoes for added deodorizing.
5 DIY Essential Oil Recipes Every Guy Needs
These essential oil blend recipes can help you take the more natural route in your skin care and grooming regimen. (Yes, guys also need to take care of their skin!)
Face Oil
Fill a roll on (roller bottle) or small dark glass bottle with the following:
- 5 drops frankincense essential oil
- 5 drops lavender essential oil
- 5 drops vetiver essential oil
- 2 tablespoons of fractionated coconut oil
- 2 tablespoon argan oil
Use this oil twice a day, after washing your face.
Bath Soak
The perfect blend for those sore muscles after a long day.
- 7 drops lavender oil
- 7 drops peppermint essential oil
- 5 drops Fir Balsam
- 5 drops Black spruce
- 1.5 cups Epsom salt
- 4 tablespoons coarse sea salt
- 3 tablespoons baking soda
Aftershave
Add the following mixture to a small dark glass bottle:
- ½ teaspoon fractionated coconut oil
- 5 drops Vitamin E oil
- 1 cup witch hazel
- 7 drops vetiver oil
- 7 drops cedarwood oil
- 7 drops sandalwood oil
- 5 drops orange essential oil
Deodorant
- 7 drops vetiver oil
- 7 drops sandalwood oil
- 5 drops black pepper oil
- 4 tablespoons coconut oil
- 3 tablespoons baking soda
- 2 tablespoons arrowroot starch
Store the mixture in a dark glass jar with an airtight lid.
Keep in a cool, dark place.
Safety Concerns
When used safely, EOs usually offer little to no side effects.
When used topically as a natural aid to reduce fevers, EOs must always be diluted in a carrier oil to prevent skin irritation and reactions. (Especially if you have sensitive skin.)
It’s advisable to perform a patch test on a non-affected area of the skin and wait 24 hours to confirm no allergic reaction.
If you experience any adverse reaction to any oil, discontinue use immediately and consult your dermatologist to seek medical advice.
Some oils are not suitable for babies, young children, and pregnant or nursing women. Research the contraindications for each oil you use prior to applying them.
EOs aren’t regulated by the FDA (Food & Drug Administration), so it’s essential to do your research before buying products to make sure they aren’t diluted or contaminated.
Always choose high-quality, certified organic, and therapeutic grade products to make sure you’re experiencing the full medicinal benefits.
