Mental Health

Essential Oils and Their Mental Health Benefits

By Dynne C. | Update Date: Dec 24, 2023 08:34 PM EST

When stress feels overwhelming, essential oils can be your natural allies in finding calm and balance. Among the vast array available, here are four that can help improve mental health.

Lavender

Revered for its calming properties, lavender is one of the most popularly used essential oils. Its gentle, floral aroma creates an environment of tranquility, easing tensions and promoting relaxation. A study demonstrated its promise in reducing stress when researchers employed a 3 percent lavender oil spray that effectively alleviated workplace stress. Its versatility allows for various applications, from diffusing in the bedroom for a peaceful night's sleep to diluting and applying topically for a soothing massage.

Orange

Beyond its zesty and uplifting scent, orange essential oil possesses remarkable anxiolytic properties. In a study, researchers confirmed its ability to reduce anxiety in participants who inhaled sweet orange essential oil and were subjected to an anxiety-inducing situation. This makes it a favorable companion during meditation or moments requiring mental clarity and emotional stability. Its vibrant aroma uplifts the mood while offering a subtle, balancing effect.

Sandalwood

Sandalwood, characterized by its warm and earthy notes, emerges as a silent hero in combating anxiety. Although research on its anxiety-reducing effects is limited, preliminary studies hint at its potential to soothe anxious feelings. Its grounding scent makes it a preferred choice for diffusing in spaces where a serene atmosphere is desired or for topical application when diluted, offering a sense of comfort and relaxation.

Chamomile

Chamomile, known for its centuries-old reputation in herbal teas, extends its soothing benefits through its essential oil counterpart. With sedative effects well-documented in studies, chamomile oil emerges as a powerful aid for alleviating anxiety symptoms and improving sleep quality. Its gentle nature makes it an ideal choice for diffusing before bedtime or incorporating it into a relaxing bath for a tranquil evening ritual.

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