Hibernating in an air-conditioned room may seem like the perfect way to survive the humid summer heat, but there is a greener, healthier way - essential oils.
The use of essential oils is called aromatherapy. It uses natural plant essences, called essential oils, to cure ills and promote health. The oils come from the flowers, leaves, bark or roots of a plant and are extracted by a process of either cold pressing or steaming. Aromatherapy is said to ease the discomfort of injuries and other health problems.
While aromatherapy is very popular as part of expensive spa treatments, you can also try it at home. The oils can be used in the bath, burned in special essential oil heaters or, mixed with a carrier oil, used as a massage oil.
According to Patsy Leung, assistant training manager from Jurlique Wellness Sanctuary Day Spa, aromatherapy is easy to do at home.
'Lavender essential oil has a fresh, sweet, floral, [grassy] aroma that is soothing and refreshing, and therapeutic lavender oil ... can assist the body when adapting to stress or imbalances,' she says.
'Because it is the most versatile of all essential oils, no home should be without it. It is a great aid for relaxing and winding down before bedtime, yet has balancing properties that can also boost stamina and energy.'
Peppermint, eucalyptus, rosemary, tea tree and lemon essential oils are also particularly useful during Hong Kong's hot and steamy spring and summer.