Essential Oils For Stress Support

Essential oils are the concentrated extracts taken from plants. They capture the scent and flavor, or “essence,” of plants through distillation or cold pressing. 

These oils have been used for thousands of years in many cultures for their medicinal properties, especially in aromatherapy, which is an alternative therapy that makes use of natural plant extracts. 

How Essential Oils Work

When inhaling essential oils, the fragrance molecules reach your brain via olfactory nerves and affect parts of it, including those responsible for emotions, like the amygdala. This link of fragrance with emotion is the reason why smells can remind you of memories or feelings. By this pathway of olfaction, the essential oils may help manage stress better through the promotion of relaxation.

Stress is a normal physiological response to demanding situations. Essential oils have been studied to naturally work at the limbic system of the brain to stimulate emotions and may help with stress.

Best Essential Oils for Stress Relief

Following are some of the most popular essential oils for their stress-supporting properties.

Lavender

Lavender essential oil is probably best known for its calming and relaxing properties. It contains compounds such as linalool and linalyl acetate, which have been studied to calm the nervous system. It has been suggested that when lavender oil is inhaled, cortisol levels decrease hormone associated with stress providing a feeling of calmness and relaxation.

Benefits of Lavender Oil

• Reduced anxiousness 

• Improved sleep quality

• Tension support

Bergamot

Bergamot oil is obtained from the rind of a citrus fruit called bergamot orange. It has uplifting yet calming attributes. The citrus aroma of this essential oil contributes to decreasing anxiousness and stress, while it uplifts your mood. This rare blend of stimulation and sedation makes it perfect for mental equilibrium.

Benefits of Bergamot Oil

• Mood support

• Reduces feelings of fatigue

• Emotional balance

Chamomile

Chamomile essential oil has long been appreciated for its soft soothing effects. It supports relaxation, which is perfect for those seeking calming. Chamomile is a long-used ingredient for teas and in aromatherapy for better rest.

Benefits of Chamomile Oil

• Promotes relaxation

• Supports better sleep

• Relieves tension

Frankincense

Frankincense oil has been used in traditional medicine for several years due to its calming effects. The boswellic acids present in it have been studied for potential anti-inflammatory support and act as promoters of relaxation. 

Benefits of Frankincense Oil

• Mood support

• Aids focus

Ylang-Ylang

Ylang-ylang oil boasts a sweet floral aroma that exerts an uplifting yet calming action. This oil is widely used because of its ability to make people feel relaxed. 

Benefits of Ylang-Ylang Oil

• Aids calmness and relaxation

• Supports mood

How to Use Essential Oils 

There are many ways of incorporating essential oils into your life to aid stress. These include: 

Aromatherapy Diffusion

The most straightforward way of experiencing the magic of essential oils is through a diffuser. Just add a few drops of your favorite oil to a water-filled diffuser and let the scent fill the room. This is perfect for creating a peaceful atmosphere in your home or workplace.

Helpful Tips for Diffusing

• Try it in a quiet space to promote relaxation.

• Try using different oils or blends.

• Adjust the number of drops according to the room size.

Topical Application

Topical applications of essential oils can also be very effective in releasing stress. However, their topical use always requires dilution with a carrier oil, like coconut or jojoba oil, before applying it to your skin. You can massage the diluted oil onto your neck, wrists, or temples.

Steps for Safe Topical Use

1. Mix 3-5 drops of essential oil with 1 tablespoon of carrier oil.

2. Test on a small skin area first.

3. Dab gently onto pulse points or tense muscles.

Inhalation

Drop a few drops of essential oil on a tissue or cotton ball and inhale deeply. This is one sure way of tapping into the immediate calming properties of a fragrance.

Quick Inhalation Tips

• Keep tissues of essential oil in your purse or bag.

• Use it at work during your break or commute.

• Practice along with deep breathing techniques.

Bath Soak

Adding essential oils to your bath water can increase the level of relaxation. Combine a few drops with Epsom salts or a carrier oil before adding them to your bathwater. Soak in the aromatic water to unwind after a long day.

Creating a Relaxing Bath Experience

1. Add 5-10 drops of essential oil mixed with Epsom salt.

2. Ensure the water temperature is comfortable.

3. Light candles or play soothing music.

Safety Tips When Using Essential Oils

While generally safe if applied correctly, follow these general safety precautions with essential oils:

• Dilute Properly: Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying them to the skin.

• Patch Test: Perform a patch test on a small area of skin before using a new oil to check for any allergic reactions.

• Do Not Ingest: Do not ingest essential oils internally.

• Store Safely: Keep essential oils out of the reach of children and pets.

• Consult Professionals: In cases of health conditions or pregnancy, consult healthcare providers before using essential oils.

Do Essential Oils Support Stress Relief?

Essential oils are a natural stress management and relaxation promoter. Incorporating them into your daily routine can create a peaceful environment and support your mental well-being. 

Try to embrace these natural solutions as part of your journey toward better stress management and overall wellness.