Essential oils are potent scented extracts that are derived from flowers, plants, and fruits and they provide a myriad of beauty and health benefits. Today, we are exploring the best essential oils for stress and anxiety.
Please remember that essential oils are potent, and if you are using it topically, they must be diluted with a carrier oil like coconut oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, argan oil, etc.
8 Best Essential Oils For Stress and Anxiety
Bergamot Orange Essential Oil
Bergamot orange essential oil is derived from the Citrus Bergamia tree and the oil is extracted through cold-pressing orange rinds. This is a well known oil for aromatherapy and is believed to provide relief for anxiety. It can be useful in reducing anxiety in individuals who are awaiting minor surgery.
Chamomile Essential Oil
Chamomile is a herb that looks like a daisy and the oil is extracted through steam distillation, using the flowers of the plant. Massage therapy with diluted roman chamomile essential oil can help with lowering stress and anxiety symptoms.
Clary Sage Essential Oil
Clary sage is essentially a medicinal herb that many individuals found useful for anxiety relief. A small 2013 study explored the impact of essential oils in females with urinary incontinence. They have inhaled lavender, clary sage, or almond essential oils while undergoing a bladder examination. The study revealed that those who inhaled clary sage essential oil had lower blood pressure levels and respiratory rates.
Lavender Essential Oil
This purple flowering plant with its aromatic scent has long been known to have muscle-relaxing, anti-inflammatory, and anxiety-lowering properties.
Several clinical trials in 2017 suggest that lavender oil used with aromatherapy can assist with reducing anxiety prior to surgery or cosmetic procedures and also for patients staying in intensive care units. The studies are limited though and more evidence needs to be carried out.
Lemon Essential Oil
Lemon essential oil that is made from the leaves and the rind of lemons have a rich citrus aroma and it is believed to have an anxiety-relieving effect. However, extended exposure to lemon oil could have an opposite effect and lead to a stressful response.
Therefore, lemon essential oil must be used for shorter periods or in smaller doses. Also keep in mind that any citrus essential oils can boost sensitivity to sunlight. So, you should use appropriate sun protection when you’re using these oils.
Neroli Essential Oil
Neroli essential oil is derived from the bitter orange tree and is also known as orange blossom essential oil. The oil is made with the blossoms from the tree. The aroma of the oil is citrusy and sweet and it might lower anxiety symptoms. Research suggests that neroli oil used with aromatherapy has a calming effect and is also useful for treating insomnia.
Rose Essential Oil
Some research conducted in animal studies reveal that essential oils made from the flowers of rose plants could be beneficial for relieving anxiety. However, more research on the subject is needed.
Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil
Ylang-Ylang essential oil is made with the flowers of the Cananga Odorata tree and aromatherapists believe that it could be useful for reducing stress and anxiety levels. It could also boost your self-esteem.
Other Essential Oils for Stress and Anxiety
Although limited scientific evidence exists to support these claims, some individuals found these essential oils beneficial.
- Geranium
- Sandalwood
- Basil
- Sweet orange
- Lime
- Grapefruit
Conclusion
I hope that you have found this article about the best essential oils for stress and anxiety useful. Essential oils are known for having various health and beauty-related benefits. Have you tried any of these essential oils before? And have they benefited you in any way? Please leave your responses in the comments.
Sending you light, love, and natural goodness vibes
Anthea