Which Essential Oils Are Best for Relieving Stress and Anxiety?

Essential oils are powerful, scented liquids derived from fruits, flowers and plants. Aromatherapy was used for centuries due to its healing properties and even today, researches suggest that essential oils can be helpful for many different conditions including for managing stress and anxiety. There is no doubt that stress and anxiety have become common issues in our busy lifestyles. Unfortunately, they further lead to a range of health issues which negatively impact both, our physical and mental health. A lack of sleep, work pressure and increasing lifestyle commitments are all result of stress and anxiety. So, no matter how often you are dealing with these conditions using essential oils to manage them is a good idea.

However, not all of them can help you with this. There are few essential oils for stress and anxiety which can provide you with relief.

Lavender or Lavandula angustifolia is a flowering plant with purple colour and fragrant scent. Lavender essential oil is one of the commonly used ones among aromatherapists due to its calming effects. Also, this oil has anti-inflammatory, anxiety-relieving and muscle-relaxing properties. According to several clinical trials, aromatherapy with lavender can help reduce anxiety before cosmetic procedure or surgery as well as during stay in an intensive care unit.

These essential oils for stress and anxiety are derived from the flowers of the Canang odorata tree and many aromatherapists believe that they can help people to feel more calm and relaxed and reduce the levels of stress and anxiety. A small study on 34 nurses has shown that aromatherapy with ylang-ylang essential oil didn't have a huge effect on anxiety but it helpt in improving the participants' self-esteem.

Essential oils from lemon leaves or rind have a rich citrus scent and according to researches the exposure to this oil may have an anxiety-relieving effect. Since it's quite strong in scent some aromatherapists advice people to use lemon oil in lower doses or for shorter periods of time. Also, remember that citrus oils increase sensitivity to sunlight so anytime you are using lemon oil make sure to protect your skin from all sun exposure or avoid going out.

This essential oil comes from the tree which is known as Citrus bergamia. This oil is a popular aromatherapy for relieving anxiety. According to a systematic review inhaling bergamot orange essential oil has anxiety-reducing effects in people who were awaiting minor surgery.

There were a couple of studies made on animals showing that essential oil from rose flower plants may be beneficial for anxiety. Rose essential oil is renowned for soothing emotions, balancing hormones and headaches. Also, it's known for strengthening the heart in periods of depression, high stress and grief. You can use it in a warm bath or topically.

Apart from above mentioned there are other oils there are others that some people can also find it beneficial. Although there is little scientific evidence for them there are still worth to mention. These essential oils include basil, geranium, lime, grapefruit, sandalwood and sweet orange.

Some people want to experiment and blend different essential oils in order to create different effects and fragrances. If you want to try something like this, you can try mix bergamot, lavender and frankincense with a carrier oil. Another blend is mixing lavender, ylang-ylang and bergamot with a carrier oil. However, if you don't feel that you can do this right, then you can simply purchase an already made essential oil blend.

Essential oils are pure and concentrated and some of them can even be toxic if don't use them right. Most of the manufacturers recommend diluting essential oils with a carrier oil like sweet almond oil or olive oil. Always read the label and follow the directions before using it. Also, doing a patch test is a must. Apply a small amount of the essential oil to your skin or fabric. If the oil doesn't cause irritations, an allergy reaction or stain the fabric then it's safe to use. Some of the sings of an allergic reaction or skin irritation can include itching, pain, blotchy skin and redness. Essential oils can be used in a few different ways:

- using the oil in a special diffuser,
- applying it to fabrics and soft furnishings like pillows, bedding or cushions,
- massaging the oil into the skin,
- and mixing oils in with bath lotions or salts.

Some people can really find essential oils helpful in promoting relaxation and stress-relieve. However, this is not necessarily true for all. Some people are dealing with a high level of stress and anxiety that significantly distress and disrupt their daily routine. In these situations, a doctor visit is a must. Depending on your personal condition, the doctor will recommend the most suitable therapy for you to manage your anxiety.