Essential oils are substances with a strong aroma gotten from plants through distillation. It is possible to get these essential oils from various plant parts like flowers, roots, and leaves. Besides being used for its scents, essential oils can also be used for health benefits. The use of essential oils to improve one’s well-being is known as aromatherapy. In aromatherapy, essential oils can aid digestion, alleviate stress, and manage pain and anxiety.
The use of essential oils
A popular theory showing how aromatherapy helps the body is by stimulating your smell receptors located in the nose, which then send signals to the nervous system. Research has also shown that these oils significantly affect your body’s energy levels and chemical system. As a result of this, essential oils are used for relieving anxiety and stress in individuals. It is important to note that essential oils aren’t safe for ingestion despite several claims online that say otherwise. There is no particular proven research that implies that they are safe. Essential oils vary from each other, and some are proven to be very toxic for consumption.
The best essential oils to treat anxiety
Valerian
Valerian is a known herb that has been in usage for ages. It is gotten from the root of the valerian plant and has a strong scent that is usually described as earthy, musky, or even woody. Certain people are not fans of this smell as they may consider it unpleasant. This essential oil is believed to contain substances that aid in promoting good sleep and calming tensed nerves; because of this effect, it is used as a remedy for insomnia and people with sleeping disorders. To get the best out of this oil, you can add a few drops to your oil diffuser to disperse into the air while you inhale. Valerian oil is suitable for treating headaches, stress, sleep issues, and anxieties.
Jatamansi
This herb is classified in the same category as the valerian herb and can also be called spikenard. This herb is also made from the root of this plant and is associated with a woody or earthy aroma. Jatamansi is also included in Ayurvedic potions to help ease the mind and promote sleep. According to research, this essential oil has helped immensely reduce signs of anxiety in a person. Massage the diluted oil on your forehead or temples in a circular motion to relieve stress. Jatamansi essential oil is also proven to relieve inflammation and reduce signs of depression in individuals.
Lavender
One of the most popular essential oils has to be a lavender essential oil. It has a floral aroma with a mix of herbal scents. For centuries, lavender oil has been used in treating symptoms of anxiety and depression; It is also laced with an effect that helps with sleep issues. Research claims that the scent of lavender oils affects a part of the brain known as the limbic system, which is responsible for controlling emotions. While bathing, you can use the lavender oil by placing a few drops with other essential oils in your bathing tub to create a soothing environment.
Jasmine
As a result of its sweet and strong floral scent, jasmine essential oil is frequently used in perfumes; at times, it is also included in teas. Studies have shown that the consistent use of jasmine oil tends to heighten your sense of romance and general well-being. Unlike most essential oils used for relieving anxiety and stress, jasmine oil does not have the sleepy effect. Several studies have stipulated the significant effect of jasmine oil on lowering anxiety. Jasmine can be inhaled directly from the source, or you can place a few drops on your pillowcase for a better night’s rest.
Holy Basil
Also known as tulsi, holy basil is imbibed with eugenol and gives a spicy yet minty scent. Based on research, holy basil aids in treating mental issues like stress, depression and anxiety. While using this oil, ensure you use it in a small quantity because of its harsh scent. Place a small amount in your oil diffuser, and while it is being dispersed, you inhale. This essential oil can also treat cough, upset stomach, and pain; some studies also claim it helps reduce cholesterol levels.
Sweet Basil
Sweet basil oil is from the same food category as the herb used to prepare the marinara stew. It has a strong crispy and herbal scent. This essential oil is mostly used in aromatherapy, and it is used for calming your mind and relieving stress. You can use this oil by dropping a sizeable amount into your diffuser while you inhale it from the atmosphere.
Chamomile
Another well-known essential oil is chamomile oil which is gotten from chamomile plants. It has a calming and sedating effect coupled with its pleasant aroma. The chamomile scent can also be found in numerous herbal teas, which promote sleep. Lots of research have been conducted proving that chamomile is a great source for tacking anxiety and stress in individuals; the best way to get the most out of using chamomile oil I by massaging the diluted version on your skin or even adding it to your bathing water. Chamomile essential oil has a very strong scent; with this in mind, little drops of this essential oil should be used at a time.
Rose
Yet another superb essential oil is rose oil. Rose oil has been in usage for ages now and is proven to have a soothing and relaxing effect. With its enchanting scent from rose petals, rose oils are believed to be among the best essential oils for tacking acute depression and anxiety.
Vetiver
Although not well known to the public, vetiver essential oil is a secret tool for battling anxiety and stress; It is also known as khus oil to some people. These essential oils aid immensely in calming your nerves and helping you get better night rests. You can enjoy this essential oil by placing it in a diffuser while inhaling it for its effects.
