Recently, the use of essential oils has grown in popularity as people seek less toxic, alternative uses to traditional products and supplements to help them cope with their stress and anxiety in this fast paced world.
As the pressures of everyday living increase, we turn to a variety of methods to stave off stress and anxiety. Whether it’s work, family, or other sources of stress, we need ways to eliminate tension from our lives. Going to the gym for a tough workout, relaxing at home with a good book, taking a long walk around the neighborhood: there are numerous ways to alleviate feelings of stress and anxiety. Using essential oils is a great natural way of fighting stress and anxiety.
If you are tired, stressed or anxious often, then you should keep reading.
What Are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are plant extracts which capture the plant’s fragrance and flavor. They are usually obtained through a process of steam or water distillation. Essential oils may be combined with a carrier oil, such as almond oil, so they can be easily used. Inhaling the scent of essential oils can stimulate areas of your brain1 which play a role in emotions and behavior. Some essential oils may also be absorbed through the skin.
How Do Essential Oils Work?
Each time you breathe in, you draw scent molecules into your nose where delicate receptors distinguish them and pass on this information to your brain. Each fragrance has a subtle emotional effect on your mind and your body. For example, some aromas, such as eucalyptus, peppermint or grapefruit can make you feel more awake. Whereas scents such as lavender, cedarwood, and lime can make you feel more relaxed. And, when essential oils are applied to skin, their healing components are absorbed into the bloodstream by the pores and hair follicles.
Seven Essential Oils To Help Alleviate Stress and Anxiety:
Lavender
Of all the essential oils, lavender is one of the most widely researched in terms of its beneficial effects2 on stress and anxiety. Lavender’s sweet, floral notes have been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system as a whole as well as lowering heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature. In can help to induce more relaxed brain waves. That’s not all, lavender can also help you if you suffer from insomnia3 by promoting a better quality of sleep. Researchers believe that Lavender has been used for over 2,500 years.
Vetiver
Not one of the most well-known essential oils, vetiver is extracted from the roots of the grassy Indian vetiver plant. It has an easily recognizable earthy, woody scent. In aromatherapy, vetiver is often referred to as the “oil of tranquility,” This is because of its calming fragrance. It is used to ease anxiety, relieve insomnia and alleviate depression. The reason that this essential oil is so good for combatting stress and anxiety is that it can eliminate inflammation4 of the nervous system, which plays a huge role in your mental and emotional state.
Lime
The essential oil of lime is extracted from the peel of the citrus fruit and has many uses in aromatherapy. It’s well-known for its tart, citrus aroma. One of them is relieving stress. It has been shown to reduce anxiety by reducing the stress hormone corticosterone. Chronic stress can increase5 the levels of this hormone, which can affect mood, sleep, and memory.
Cedarwood
Distilled from the leaves, needles, and bark of the cedar tree, cedarwood oil is known for its woody scent, with an undertone of citrus. It has a pleasantly calming effect on the body. It may also have a soothing effect on the mood and help to alleviate depression. With is sedative qualities7, cedarwood oil not only reduces harmful stress, but it also promotes the onset of restful and reparative sleep.
Bergamot
Bergamot essential oil is extracted from the peel of the citrus fruit Citrus bergamia. Unlike other citrus fruits, bergamot has a unique scent which has a spicy, floral quality. Not only can bergamot support a healthy mood and reduce the symptoms of stress6 disorders, but it can also make it easier to sleep. Like lime, bergamot oil helps to reduce levels of the stress hormone corticosterone.
Marjoram
Marjoram oil comes from the flowers of the fragrant herb and has a woody scent with an undertone of mint. You may have used marjoram to flavor your soups and meat dishes, and you can also use it to combat stress and anxiety. Its warm, woody aroma has calming properties, which has a beneficial effect on our nervous system, especially in times of stress.
Coconut
Coconut oil is a popular ingredient in many aromatherapy blends. Its nutty scent is easily recognizable. As well as being a great carrier oil for essential oils, coconut oil can be good for de-stressing for many people because it triggers memories of summer days and relaxing times. Coconut oil works by combatting oxidative stress8, which can lead to depression, stress build-up, and anxiety.