Essential oils are nature’s medication, and they have been used for centuries to treat and soothe a variety of illnesses and conditions.
Essential oils typically work in two ways. One is through aromatherapy. When you inhale the scent of an essential oil, it can alter the way you think and feel. The second way is through putting the oil into your body. This can be done by rubbing it onto your skin or in some cases, ingesting it.
Many people have found relief from tension and anxiety through the use of essential oils. Here are the 13 top essential oils for anxiety and stress.
Best essential oils for anxiety and stress
Cedarwood
Cedarwood essential oil comes from the bark of conifer trees like pine. It has a calming scent that many people find reminiscent of being in nature.
You can diffuse this oil for aromatherapy purposes, or you can add it to lotions and other skin care products. It is also sometimes combined with other essential oils as a bug repellent.
Chamomile
You may have heard the old-fashioned recommendation of a cup of chamomile tea when you want to destress or relax. This is because chamomile is naturally soothing, and many people use it to melt away stress. Some also use it as an antidepressant.
You can ingest food grade chamomile essential oil in water, tea or another beverage. You can also mix it with a carrier oil to rub on your feet.
Some people use the oil on their stomachs to help relieve digestive issues caused by stress.
Eucalyptus
This versatile essential oil is used for many different purposes, from a decongestant to an anti-inflammatory treatment.
Diffuse eucalyptus essential oil for a burst of concentration and energy.
If you need to stay focused, try putting a few drops on a cotton ball or tissue to sniff during mentally challenging tasks.
Frankincense
Frankincense essential oil has a complex and heady scent that many people find spiritually uplifting. It is commonly used during times of prayer and meditation to keep your mind in a state of focused relaxation.
Diffuse it in your home to become more spiritually grounded, or add it to lotion at night to help you get a restful night’s sleep.
Grapefruit
Grapefruit essential oil is known for its ability to encourage happiness and a light heart through aromatherapy. This clean, citrus scent can make life seem brighter.
Carry some grapefruit oil with you to inhale when you are feeling anxious, or diffuse it in your home.
You can also ingest food quality grapefruit oil to help with mental energy and also weight loss.
Jasmine
This is a romantic and sensual scent that is known for its aphrodisiac qualities, but jasmine essential oil can also bring about stress relief.
Many people use jasmine essential oil as a mood enhancer and energy booster. You can rub it directly on your skin and also diffuse it into the air.
It is a wonderful addition to lotions and other skin products.
Lavender
Lavender essential oil is probably considered the most effective essential oil when it comes to reducing stress and anxiety. Lavender is a product of the flower with the same name, and the scent is very familiar to many people.
The scent of lavender brings a sense of calm and relaxation to many people. You can diffuse lavender, carry it with you to smell or even dab it onto your skin as a perfume.
Lavender essential oil is a very common ingredient in beauty products like body washes and creams and is also edible and used in scented candles.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass essential oil is another fresh, uplifting scent that is often used to relieve depression and anxiety. The scent itself has a natural, woodsy aroma and often makes people think of refreshing time alone in a natural setting.
Lemongrass oil is also used to help relieve aches and pains in joints and muscles and can be rubbed into the skin when mixed with a carrier oil.
Orange
Many people use orange essential oil in cleaning solutions and beauty products like skin cleansers. The scent is bright and joyful, and it is often used as a mood lifter. Orange essential oil can also work as a sedative, helping you relax after a stressful day or activity.
Orange essential oil may also be used for its antibacterial properties.
Rose
The romantic scent of rose essential oil is useful in building mental and physical energy. At least one study has shown that it also works as a sedative when inhaled.
Its floral scent also works as an aphrodisiac and has been found useful in relieving some problems with sexual performance.
Sandalwood
Sandalwood essential oil is a complex scent that is known for clearing and calming the mind.
Diffusing sandalwood can help you overcome a stressful situation and allow you to think about problems more clearly.
Sandalwood has also been known to help with short-term memory.
Tea tree
If you only use one essential oil, tea tree oil is an excellent choice.
Tea tree essential oil can be used for skin care, fighting funguses and as an antibacterial. It is also very effective for stress relief.
Try placing a few drops into bath water for a relaxing experience that will relieve anxiety.
Ylang Ylang
Ylang ylang essential oil is known as a mood lifter. Diffuse it in your home to have a better mental outlook and a brighter attitude about life.
You can also use ylang ylang to increase your blood flow and for strong and healthy skin and nails.
Summary
Essential oils are powerful tools in medicine and in managing psychological health. These 13 essential oils can be effectively used to help reduce and control anxiety and stress.
Try several different oils to choose the one that is best for you, and you will be on the path to mentally healthier life.