Myrtle oil

Myrtle oil is distilled from the leaves of the myrtle shrub, which grows wild around the Mediterranean. Its scent is fresh, green and slightly camphor-like, like a softer eucalyptus. In aromatherapy, it's traditionally used in blends for clear breathing during cold season and in skin care, though research is limited.

Ways to use it:

• Add 3–4 drops to a diffuser, alone or with lemon
• Add a few drops to a bowl of steaming water and breathe in the aroma
• For skin, dilute 1–2 drops in a tablespoon of carrier oil like jojoba

Never swallow essential oils, patch test before using them on skin, and keep them away from young children's faces. Check with your doctor or practitioner if you're pregnant, nursing or managing a health condition.

Try this: diffuse myrtle and lemon while you tidy up this weekend.