Top 12 Most Popular Essential Oils for Anxiety and Stress

The 12 Best Essential Oils for Anxiety

Essential oils are plant extracts obtained through distillation from various plant parts like leaves, flowers, and roots. Besides being used in scents for products, some have health applications in aromatherapy. This involves using essential oils for anxiety and well-being purposes.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, around 31% of US adults will experience an anxiety disorder. Managing anxiety can be done through various methods like therapy, meditation, breathing exercises, and even aromatherapy. Recent studies suggest that essential oils may help ease anxiety symptoms. While scientific evidence for these uses is still being studied, ongoing research aims to understand the potential benefits of essential oils.

In aromatherapy, essential oils manage pain, aid digestion, and reduce stress. Using essential oils with a diffuser is best to avoid skin irritation. If you want to apply them to your skin, mix them with a carrier oil like coconut oil, but be cautious—test a small area first to check for reactions. Also, the FDA doesn’t regulate essential oils, so research and consult your doctor, especially if your anxiety is severe. Only ingest essential oils if they’re food-grade and approved by your doctor.

Here are our top choices for essential oils to bring a bit of calm into your life.

5. Frankincense

Frankincense oil, derived from the resin of the Boswellia tree, is often explored for its potential to manage anxiety. With a woody and earthy aroma, frankincense oil is believed to have calming properties that may help alleviate stress and promote a sense of tranquility. Some aromatherapists and users find that inhaling the scent of frankincense oil induces relaxation and emotional balance.

While there is anecdotal evidence supporting its anxiety-relieving effects, more scientific research is needed to establish its efficacy conclusively. As with any essential oil, it’s necessary to use caution, and individual responses can vary.

6. Rose

Rose oil’s sweet and floral aroma is believed to have calming effects, promoting relaxation and emotional well-being. Some research on animals indicates that essential oils from rose flowers might help with anxiety.

In a 2015 review, studies with mice using conflict tests and mazes suggested that essential oils from Rose centifolia and Rose damascene could have a relaxing effect. However, another mice study had different results, contradicting these findings. Moreover, more research is needed to establish its efficacy conclusively in humans.

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How to Properly Use Essential Oils for Anxiety?

Using essential oils for anxiety involves several steps to maximize their effectiveness:

• Choose Appropriate Oils: Select oils known for their anxiety-relieving properties, such as lavender, chamomile, or ylang-ylang.
• Select a Delivery Method:
  • Aromatherapy: Use a diffuser to disperse the scent into the air.
  • Topical Application: Dilute the essential oil with carrier oil and apply it to pulse points or areas with tense muscles.
  • Inhalation: Inhale directly from the bottle or add a few drops to a tissue.
• Create a Relaxing Atmosphere:
  • Diffuser: Add a few drops of the chosen essential oil to a diffuser and let the aroma fill the room.
  • Bath: Mix a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil or Epsom salts for a soothing bath.
• Practice Mindful Breathing: Inhale Deeply. Take slow, deep breaths while inhaling the aroma directly or using a diffuser.
• Blend Oils for Synergy: Try to mix and match—experiment with blending different oils to create a personalized scent that enhances relaxation.
• Be Consistent: Use essential oils consistently to build a routine that signals relaxation to the mind and body.
• Ensure Safety:
  • Dilution: Always dilute essential oils before applying them to the skin to avoid irritation.
  • Consultation: If pregnant, nursing, or under medical care, consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils.
• Adjust to Personal Preferences: Try different oils and methods to discover what works best. Pay attention to how your body responds to each oil and adjust accordingly.

Remember that individual responses to essential oils can vary, so finding the approach that suits your preferences and provides the desired calming effects is crucial.

Aromatherapy, theorized to stimulate smell receptors and impact the nervous system, is commonly used for natural stress and anxiety relief through inhalation and topical application of essential oils. However, ingesting essential oils is not recommended due to insufficient research on safety, as each oil varies, and some can be toxic.

The FDA doesn’t regulate essential oils, so it’s crucial to use therapeutic-grade oils from trusted sources and consider individual restrictions for children, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and pets, consulting medical professionals when needed.

How to Choose Essential Oil Blends for Anxiety and Panic Attacks?

When selecting essential oil blends for anxiety and panic attacks, focusing on calming and soothing scents known for their relaxation properties is necessary. Lavender, chamomile, and bergamot are popular choices for their stress-relieving effects. Consider blends that combine these oils to create a synergy of calming aromas. Opt for blends from reputable brands that use high-quality, pure essential oils.

Please read product descriptions and user reviews to ensure the blend aligns with its intended purpose of promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. Dilution is also vital—blends should be appropriately diluted to ensure safe topical application. Remember to consult with healthcare professionals, especially if you have specific health conditions or are under medical care, to ensure that the chosen essential oil blends suit your needs and well-being.

Do you have questions about using essential oils for anxiety or anxiety treatment in general? Call our helpline 24/7.

Are Essential Oils for Sleep and Anxiety Safe?

Essential oils for anxiety and stress are, but it’s best to be cautious. Essential oils vary in quality since they’re not regulated. Diffusing them, even at home, can affect people differently. For instance, while peppermint oil helps with headaches, it can agitate babies under three years old. Consult your primary doctor for the best essential oil for you.

Essential oils for sleep and anxiety are considered safe when used correctly. However, some oils may cause skin irritation, and not all essential oils are suitable for everyone, especially pregnant individuals, breastfeeding parents, or those with specific health conditions.

Following proper dilution guidelines is important, as undiluted essential oils can be too potent and cause adverse reactions. Also, inhalation methods, such as using a diffuser, are generally safe but ensure proper ventilation, especially in shared spaces. While essential oils can be a natural and effective option for anxiety, consulting with a healthcare professional before use, especially if you have specific health concerns, is advisable to ensure safety and efficacy.

Essential Oils for Anxiety and Depression Therapy

Mental health inpatient treatment centers may incorporate aromatherapy and essential oils as complementary therapies to support overall mental well-being. Experts recognize the potential benefits of aromatherapy in creating a calming and soothing environment for individuals undergoing mental health treatment. Essential oils like lavender, chamomile, and bergamot are often used for their reported stress-relieving properties.

However, the approach to aromatherapy and essential oils may vary among treatment programs. Some may integrate these practices into relaxation sessions or offer them as optional therapy components, considering individual preferences and sensitivities. The emphasis is typically on providing a holistic and supportive environment to enhance the mental health treatment process. It’s advisable for individuals considering or undergoing inpatient mental health treatment to inquire about the specific approaches and options available at the particular center they are engaging with.

If anxiety is making it hard for you or someone you know to get through the day, We Level Up Florida Mental Health Treatment Center is here to help. Our experienced team offers personalized care. Take the first step toward feeling better—reach out for help. Call We Level Up FL now. Each call is free and confidential.

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