Essential Oils for Day of the Dead

Day of the Dead, or “Dia de los Muertos,” is a Mexican holiday that celebrates and honors deceased loved ones. The holiday is celebrated each year from October 31st to November 2nd so families can welcome back the souls of their relatives for a brief reunion that includes food, drink, music, and much jubilation. According to tradition, it is believed that the border between the spirit world and the real-world dissolves during this time period, allowing the ancestors to return to the living world to revel with loved ones. Their spirits are welcomed back with marigold flowers, candles, sugar skulls, food, and beverages that are left on their gravesites or on ofrendas (altars) created in homes.

While I am not Mexican, I admire so much the meaning behind the Day of the Dead. I love the joyful and respectful atmosphere this three-day tradition invokes. It’s an occasion for remembering and celebrating those who have passed on from this world, while at the same time, portraying death in a more positive light as a natural part of the human experience. I find sugar skulls to be beautiful. And I am mesmerized by all of the bright and bold colors!

While essential oils aren’t a traditional part of the Day of the Dead rituals, you can incorporate scents that are culturally relevant or personally meaningful to you to enhance the ambiance and pay homage to your ancestors. Here are some essential oils that you might consider using:

1. Marigold (Tagetes): Marigolds are known as “cempasuchil” in Mexico and are commonly associated with Day of the Dead. Using marigold essential oil can provide a floral and earthy scent reminiscent of the traditional marigold flowers used in ofrendas.
2. Copal: Since ancient times, Copal incense has been considered sacred to the people of Mexico, as well as South and Central America. Copal resin incense is often burned during Day of the Dead celebrations. You can use copal essential oil to create a similar aromatic experience, which has a sweet and resinous fragrance.
3. Orange: The scent of fresh oranges is a popular choice, as they are used in ofrendas to symbolize the sweetness of life. Orange essential oil has a bright and citrusy aroma that can evoke this symbolism.
4. Cinnamon: Cinnamon is used in many Mexican dishes and beverages, and it has a warm and spicy aroma. Cinnamon essential oil can add a comforting and familiar scent to your celebration.
5. Frankincense: Frankincense is another resin traditionally used in rituals and has a deep, woody, and resinous aroma. It can add a sense of spirituality and connection to your commenoration.
6. Myrrh: Like frankincense, myrrh resin has a long history of being used in spiritual and religious practices. Myrrh essential oil has a rich, earthy, and slightly sweet scent.
7. Rose: Roses are often used in day of the Dead celebrations to symbolize love and honor for the deceased. Rose essential oil has a sweet and floral fragrance that can represent this sentiment.
8. Lavender: Lavender essential oil is known for its calming and soothing properties. You can use it to create a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere during your remembrance activities.

When using essential oils, adding them to a diffuser and creating a room spray are easy ways to incorporate them in your holiday. Ensure that the scent enhances the overall atmosphere and experience of your Day of the Dead celebration while being respectful of the holiday’s cultural and spiritual significance.