We’ve all been there. We’ve had an overly
stressful day where that one thing sends us over the edge. Or maybe it’s not
just one thing. Perhaps you are constantly struggling with the feeling of being
overwhelmed or down – finding day-to-day life difficult to manage. Sometimes we take our work
home with us and let the stress of it run our lives. Or maybe it’s just the way
we are. Whatever the source of our stress or anxiety, we could all use some
quick relief. While nothing can replace a visit with your doctor, there are
natural and healthy ways to help relieve that inner turmoil. Keep reading to
learn how essential oils may improve your mood and your life!
Why Try
Essential Oils?
Essential oils are highly
concentrated extracts from plants and other natural ingredients. Essential oils
have a very pleasant aroma and can be used to help address all types of
physical and mental ailments. These oils have been used medicinally for
centuries. They can be administered topically, orally, or via aromatherapy with
a diffuser or steam. Often oils are combined, sometimes with a lighter, carrier
oil, such as jojoba or coconut oil, to create a type of therapeutic “potion.”
(Add a few drops of soothing essential oils to a carrier oil, and you can even
use the blend topically as an aromatherapy-based, relaxing massage!)
While essential oils are considered to be fluid in their
ability to aid in whatever the user’s specific ailment may be, there are
certain types of oils that have been shown to help specifically with stress and
anxiety. One of the most tried and true options is, among others, lavender. There are four other
must-have essential oils we recommend too.
5
Must-Have Essential Oils
Lavender
Lavender is one of the most commonly used
essential oils today and contains antioxidant and sedative properties. Several studies have been
conducted with lavender oil with highly beneficial results of anxiety and
stress relief, as well as better sleep. Lavender has even been shown to have a similar effect as anxiety medication. It can be
combined with bergamot, another calming oil, to create a very soothing
fragrance.
Bergamot
Bergamot is widely used to counter depression.
While bergamot has a calming aroma, it is also said to be a mood booster and provide
mental energy.
Rose
Rose, like lavender, is another popular light
and floral scent used to help ease feelings of stress and anxiety. Rose oil has
long been used to assuage grieving and shock, battle panic attacks, as well as
promote a peaceful mood. Controlled studies have found that individuals
that use rose oil during moments of anxiety have a higher chance of reducing
that anxiety and stress and enabling calm.
Chamomile
Chamomile is primarily known as the tea you
drink before bedtime. The reason chamomile is so widely known for this is
because it does, in fact, contain soothing properties. Chamomile extract has
been shown to decrease irritability, overthinking, anxiety, and
worry, and instead promote feelings of harmony, peacefulness, and rest. Another
study showed that chamomile may
provide anti-depressant activity for those who commonly experience anxiety and
depression.
Frankincense
Frankincense is another great essential oil for providing relief for anxiety and depression as it encourages a tranquil energy and spiritual
grounding. Frankincense is said to help quiet the mind and clear your head. It
has been shown to work well with lavender
and bergamot in a 1:1:1 ratio for promoting peace of mind and tranquility.
While there are many essential oils that can aid
in the daily struggle for peace of mind, these are some of the most tried and true. If you are
experiencing serious anxiety or depression, it is always best to see a doctor.
Essential oils are not meant to replace professional advice, but they are a
means of helping with day-to-day stress alleviation and promoting general peace
of mind.
While what works for some does not always work
for others, it is always beneficial to give natural remedies a try. Essential
oils are a safe and natural way to help maintain mental health and happiness.
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Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
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