Essential oils are amazing at helping with everyday problems; many people use them when they've already gotten sick as a natural solution/remedy, when they want to prevent getting sick, as beauty products, and as fragrances in their home! Here are some essential oils that will help ease your anxiety and stress, and the different ways you can use essential oils to benefit your health (aromatherapy, dilution, application, etc.). This post may contain affiliate links, for more information see my disclaimer.
1. Lavender
Lavender is probably the most popular essential oil for relieving anxiety. It's been found to have the same beneficial effects on anxiety as Lorazepam (without the sedative properties or possible addictive side-effects). It was found to lower people's anxious reactions to anxiety-provoking stimuli. The scent alone is said to be relaxing and calming, and I agree- I use it before bed!
2. Chamomile
If you've ever tried Chamomile tea, then you already know the calming effects. A study has shown that in people with comorbidity (two disorders that commonly appear together in people) of anxiety and depression, it helped relieve symptoms for both disorders.
3. Ylang Ylang
In a study that combined ylang ylang, bergamot, and lavender, patients were found to have reduced "psychological stress responses and serum cortisol levels, as well as the blood pressure of clients with essential hypertension." It also helps calm physical responses to anxiety.
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4. Peppermint
Peppermint is great for clearing your mind, when anxiety has it jumbled up with stress and anxious thoughts. Indigestion oftentimes is associated with upset nerves, and peppermint oil can help alleviate those symptoms as well.
5. Rose
Of course I had to include rose oil (it's my favorite one!), but even studies have shown that rose oil is extremely helpful for reducing anxiety. The smell alone can improve mood and stabilize emotions.
6. Bergamot
Bergamot was found to significantly reduce stress levels, done by a study on rats. It's found to be very calming and can even reduce blood pressure!
7. Jasmine
The smell alone of Jasmine has been claimed to be "as calming as Valium". It was used in the past to help with insomnia as well.
8. Sandalwood
Sandalwood is known to have a strong effect on the limbic system, making it very helpful for regulating emotions. Sandalwood helps calm the mind and because it's powerful at stabilizing emotions, it also helps promote mental clarity.
Valerian root can ease physical symptoms associated with anxiety, such as stomach tension and muscle pain. It has a powerful relaxing effect on your body's muscles.
10. Patchouli
Patchouli has a calming effect and is known to be a light sedative, helpful in aiding restlessness before bed. Even though it is a light sedative, it's known to help boost your mood caused by emotional exhaustion and fatigue.
11. Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is great for relieving mental exhaustion! It's cooling effect stimulates the brain while simultaneously eliminating stress. See also: Revival Aromatherapy Roller
12. Cinnamon Leaf
Cinnamon leaf has excellent anti-inflammatory properties, and helps soothe aching and tired muscles. Along with it's physical soothing benefits, it also alleviates drowsiness caused from mental fatigue.
13. Vetiver
Another study done on rats found that vetiver oil may help reduce anxiety. It's often used for people experiencing or who have experienced trauma, and it is very beneficial for those suffering from panic attacks.
14. Lemongrass
Wonderful for relieving agitation, lemongrass oil is great for helping those with anxiety and stress. One study found that GABA (a neurotransmitter that reduces stress) levels increased in the brain when the fragrance of lemongrass was inhaled.
The scent of geranium alone is said to bring positive moods when inhaled, and can act as a natural sedative. It's great for those suffering with sleep problems!
See also: Bliss Aromatherapy Roller
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For a complete list of ways you can use essential oils, click here!
❂ In your bath
- You can use essential oils in your bath with you, by adding a few drops of your favorite oil, or by using an essential oil bath product or fragrance! Just make sure you test the oil on a small spot on your skin before using it, to check for skin irritation!
❂ In a diffuser
- I have an essential oil diffuser in my room, and I love it!! It makes my room smell amazing, and it's so easy to use. I honestly feel better after smelling a certain oil in my room, and I'd highly recommend using this method to get the benefits of essential oils. The one below is a super cheap option, mine was around $40, and most can get up to $100, but the one below is only $23!
❂ Topically
- As long as you check for skin irritation first, you can apply *diluted* essential oils directly on your body! You can use as a chest rub, on your face, hands and feet, and basically anywhere that's safe to apply oils. Don't apply harsh oils, even when diluted, near your lips, eyes, nostrils, or ears as they can dry out or irritate these areas. Add a few drops of essential oil to a carrier (or base) oil (I use coconut oil) to dilute the essential oil.
Diluting your essential oils is 100% necessary when applying to your skin, partially because pure essential oil can occasionally be harmful if applied undiluted to skin. Diluting your essential oils will make your oils last forever!
❂ On your pillow
- Place a few drops or spray your oils on your pillow, so you can inhale them at night and get the benefits while you sleep! Just don't add too much, a little goes a long way, and again- always check for skin irritation.
❂ Inhalation
- There are a few ways to inhale essential oils to gain their benefits. Some people claim adding a few drops to a cloth and inhaling works for them, but this seems a little strange to me, lol. I would recommend adding a few drops to steaming water and inhaling the steam, or using your essential oils as a fragrance in a candle or soap!
You don't need to use all of these oils to reduce anxiety, you can pick your favorites and play around with fragrances and products until you find the essential oils that work for you! Take a peek at some of the examples I've given above and see if any scents are appealing to you! Try some out and experiment, your treatment and recovery is specific to your preferences!
Comment below if you'd like to see a post about essential oils for boosting moods and relieving symptoms of depression! Share using the social media icons to help others with their stress and anxiety. Thanks for reading!
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Using different aromatherapy oils is a great way to fight stress. But if you still feel like going through the day only half-awake, then maybe it's time to look at more long-lasting solutions. What else can you do?