The Inspire Blend at Obvs at Home

As a skincare formulator and founder of Obvs at Home, I’m deeply invested in offering products that not only elevate our well-being but also respect the environment.

Essential oils like bergamot, lemongrass, and lime are perfect for this mission; they’re sustainable and packed with wellness benefits, making them an ideal choice for our Inspire home fragrance range. So, what makes these oils so beneficial, both for us and the planet? Let’s take a look at the science behind these powerhouse botanicals and why I’ve chosen them for our Inspire blend.

The Power of Bergamot: A Natural Uplift for Mind and Mood

Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) is a citrus essential oil with a rich, refreshing aroma that has been treasured for centuries. When inhaled, it’s like an instant pick-me-up, helping to uplift mood and ease stress. The key players in bergamot’s benefits are imonene, linalyl acetate, and linalool.

- Limonene is a monoterpene known to lift mood and energise the mind. Studies show that limonene interacts with the brain's dopamine and serotonin systems, which are responsible for mood regulation, leading to improved feelings of positivity and vitality.

- Linalyl acetate and linalool are recognised for their calming effects on the nervous system, helping to ease anxiety and stress. A 2017 study found that inhaling bergamot oil helped reduce cortisol (a stress hormone), which in turn lowered feelings of stress and boosted relaxation levels.

Bergamot is a top choice for natural, sustainable well-being because of its versatility and quick-growing nature. It offers a way to add calm and joy to any space without reliance on synthetic chemicals, fitting perfectly into the Obvs at Home ethos.

Lemongrass: A Clean, Refreshing Scent with a Calming Edge

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) brings an earthy, citrusy aroma that refreshes the senses while helping to ground and relax. The standout compounds in lemongrass oil are citral (a combination of neral and geranial), limonene, and beta-myrcene.

- Citral is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, but its benefits go beyond that. When inhaled, citral can ease tension and promote relaxation, while also supporting mental clarity. It’s why lemongrass oil has been used in traditional practices to calm and focus the mind.

- Beta-myrcene contributes to lemongrass’ relaxing properties and has been shown to reduce tension and induce calm. Studies even suggest that inhaling lemongrass can help lower heart rate and blood pressure, making it a gentle natural option for calming effects.

On a sustainability level, lemongrass is easy to cultivate and resilient, thriving in various climates with little need for intensive resources. So when you enjoy the Inspire blend, you’re not only indulging in a mindful moment but choosing a cleaner, eco-friendly option for your home.

Lime: Energise and Brighten Your Day Naturally

Lime (Citrus aurantiifolia) rounds out our Inspire blend with its sharp, tangy scent that’s instantly uplifting. Like bergamot, lime oil is rich in limonene, as well as β-pinene.

- Limonene, which is also abundant in lime, stimulates the brain’s serotonin and dopamine pathways, creating a mood-lifting effect. It’s even been shown to increase alertness and reduce mild symptoms of depression, making it a wonderful choice for a home fragrance that keeps us motivated and focused.

- β-Pinene is an antioxidant that provides both mental clarity and stress relief. It can improve focus and memory while supporting a relaxed, clear-headed state.

Lime trees are resilient and naturally abundant in various regions, making lime oil a sustainable choice that requires minimal intervention to grow and harvest. This aligns with our commitment to reduce environmental impact while bringing natural wellness into your space.

Sustainability in Every Drop

Bergamot, lemongrass, and lime essential oils are all produced through eco-friendly methods like steam distillation or cold pressing, which use minimal resources. Their quick growth and resilience also make them a sustainable choice, as they require less water and produce fewer emissions than more resource-intensive oils. At Obvs at Home, it’s about creating luxury without the footprint – using oils that are as beneficial to our well-being as they are respectful to the planet.

Why We Chose These Oils for Inspire

The Inspire home fragrance range is designed to offer a gentle boost to your day, whether you’re working from home or simply unwinding. The synergy of bergamot’s uplifting calm, lemongrass’ refreshing clarity, and lime’s energising brightness creates a blend that’s motivating yet relaxing. It’s a versatile combination that can lift your mood, help you focus, and create a sense of balance – naturally, sustainably, and with a touch of luxury.

By choosing Inspire, you’re bringing a mindful, scientifically grounded blend into your home, crafted to inspire you to live well and tread lightly. I hope you’ll find something in this collection that brings warmth, energy, and joy into your space, all while being gentle on the planet.

Click Here to Explore Our Home Fragrances

References:

The impact of essential oils on stress and mood – A study on the use of bergamot essential oil to reduce cortisol levels and stress: Burnout & Bergamot​Aromatic Studies

Environmental concerns with synthetic fragrances – An article discussing the release of harmful chemicals from artificial fragrances: Environmental Impact of Synthetic Fragrances - Frontiers