Anxiety and stress can take a huge toll on our lives, causing physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion. However, there are some natural remedies that may help to reduce these feelings of worry and tension. Essential oils can be used as an effective tool for managing anxiety and stress through their calming and soothing properties.
In this article, we will explore the causes of anxiety and stress, the potential benefits of using essential oils, the most common types of essential oils used for relief, as well as tips on how to use them properly for maximum effect. With this knowledge in hand, you’ll be able to determine if essential oils might be right for you in your journey to find balance and peace.
Understanding the Causes of Anxiety and Stress
Anxiety and stress can be overwhelming, but understanding their causes can help us to better manage them. Stress is often caused by external factors such as work, school, or relationships, while a combination of environmental and genetic factors can cause anxiety.
Additionally, hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline that are released during times of stress can contribute to feelings of anxiety. Fortunately, there are several things we can do to manage our stress levels and anxiety, including physical activity, cognitive behavioral therapy, meditation, and aromatherapy. By incorporating these strategies into our lives we can create an environment that helps us better cope with anxiety and stress.
Special note: Aromatherapy isn’t meant to replace doctor-prescribed treatments for stress management and anxiety, but is meant to support them. Please consult your doctor before using essential oils.
Benefits of Utilizing Essential Oils for Anxiety and Stress Relief
The use of essential oils to manage stress is a centuries-old practice. Essential oils are derived from plant extracts and are believed to have therapeutic properties that can help restore balance to the mind and body when used correctly.
Research has shown that some essential oils can reduce cortisol levels, the primary hormone responsible for stress, leading to improved relaxation. Essential oils have also been linked to increased alpha brain wave activity, which is associated with feelings of calm and greater mental clarity. They even have the potential to improve mood by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain. This is due to their ability to stimulate the olfactory system which is connected to areas of the brain responsible for emotion regulation.
Best Essential Oils Used for Anxiety and Stress Relief
Essential oils have quickly become a popular go-to remedy for stress relief. Many of these natural compounds are known to effectively ease a worried mind while also improving overall emotional well-being. Here is a closer look at some of the most widely used essential oils for managing stress and anxiety:
Lavender
This sweet floral essential oil is renowned for its calming effects, making it one of the top choices when it comes to reducing feelings of tension or agitation. Research has also shown that lavender essential oil is effective at improving sleep quality, which can help us to better manage stress.
Bergamot
Bergamot essential oil has a citrusy aroma and offers numerous benefits. Studies have shown it can help regulate emotions by reducing cortisol levels, and relieving physical and psychological symptoms associated with stress.
Rosemary
Rosemary essential oil’s calming effects on both the mind and body make it a great choice for those looking to relax while also promoting mental clarity. Its herbaceous scent can help ease anxious thoughts as well as fatigue caused by stress.
Ylang Ylang
Ylang ylang essential oil has a sweet floral scent that not only uplifts moods but also provides relaxation benefits due to its unique properties – helping alleviate physical tension often caused by worry or emotional distress.
Frankincense
Frankincense essential oil offers woody, earthy aromas that promote relaxation while relieving anxious feelings. It has anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce discomfort related to chronic stress, and may even improve sleep quality thanks to its tranquilizing effects on the mind and body.
When choosing an essential oil for stress relief, make sure it’s 100% pure, organic, and sustainably sourced. Cliganic Essential Oils are high-quality and can be a great addition to your daily routine. Explore the different types of essential oils here.
Safely Using Essential Oils to Achieve Maximum Anxiety and Stress Relief
It is important to use essential oils correctly to get the most out of their therapeutic benefits. If you have any medical conditions or are around children, pregnant women, or pets, consult your doctor and a professional aromatherapist before using them, as certain essential oils can cause adverse reactions.
Aromatic use is one of the most popular ways to utilize essential oils for stress and anxiety relief. This method involves inhaling the oil's aroma, either through direct inhalation from the bottle or using a diffuser, to help promote relaxation and reduce anxious feelings. If you are diffusing essential oils make sure you are in a well-ventilated room and do not leave the diffuser on for long periods of time.
You can also apply essential topically, but you should always combine them with a carrier oil and conduct a patch test to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction.
Final Thoughts
If used properly, essential oils can be a wonderful tool for managing stress and anxiety. From diffusing to topical application, explore ways to incorporate essential oils into your daily wellness routine to reap the benefits. To learn more about how you can use essential oils to unwind, take a look at this article: DIY Bath Salts for Deep Body Relaxation.
