Essential Oils for Stress Relief
We spend most of the day stressing over things that we cannot control. This blog will introduce you to ways in which essential oils can be used for stress relief.
We cannot change our work pressures, family obligations, a fast paced and hectic life, technology overload and social commitments. But what we can do, is have readily available solutions that are easy to implement. Using essential oils for stress relief has become a very effective and popular option used today.
How essential oils can help
Our olfactory nerve is a powerful and essential nerve needed to enjoy the scents of essential oils.
The process starts at the nose, it enters the skull, and connects to the brain. Two major parts that receive signals from the olfactory nerve are the limbic system and the amygdala, which are in charge of memory, mood, and emotional response.
They’re also responsible for modulating the autonomic nervous system, better known as the fight-or-flight response. This can lead to either quickened heartbeats and raised blood pressure or soothe and calm our nerves. This is why smells have such a powerful effect on us even after the scent is long gone.
One study carried out by Ruhr University in Germany suggests, “essential oils may affect a number of biological factors, including heart rate, stress levels, blood pressure, breathing, and immune function.”
Another interesting find of this study is that essential oils are referred to as “adaptogens.” This means that each type of oil can have a different effect on different people depending on the needs of the individual.
Therefore, someone who’s agitated can use one type of oil to get a calming effect, while someone else who suffers from depression can use the same oil and get an uplifting effect. How amazing is that! Oils that adapt to your own individual needs!
So let’s begin by discussing some powerful and essential oils for stress relief.
Lavender
Lavender is known as the ‘universal oil’ because it’s one of the most useful oils available. The way lavender works is that it triggers brain pathways, which are directly connected to our memories and emotional responses.
It has been scientifically proven to reduce stress, tension, postpartum depression, and anxiety. A calming scent works wonders on relieving stress and lowering blood pressure. As both an herb and oil, it improves sleep quality and calms the nervous system.
Sage
Sage essential oil comes from the leaves of the sage plant. It’s anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory, but best of all, it’s known for its ability to uplift moods of anxiety and depression. It can also help create an alert state of mind and increased focus.
Chamomile
We all know the calming effect chamomile tea has, and it has the same soothing effects as an essential oil. What most people don’t know however is that there are two types of chamomile essential oils, German and Roman.
The German type is used for soothing, while the Roman type is used for reducing anxiety and stress. Either way, it’s energizing, calming, and great at reducing stress and boosting your mood.
Vanilla
The smell of vanilla reminds us of warm afternoons baking cookies and enjoying a family gathering. It’s known to send a relaxing, calming signal to your brain.
Rose
One other smell that’s close to our hearts and very recognizable is that of the rose. Even though it’s one of the more costly essential oils, it’s still one of the most essential oils that make you feel good about yourself, send messages to the brain to calm down and relax, and lowers blood pressure. It promotes a sense of peace, tranquility and calmness.
Lemon Balm
Studies show that lemon balm is one of the most powerful scents ever to reduce anxiety for long periods of time. It’s also antiseptic, helps relieve abdominal spasms and has the ability to reduce the build-up of a protein, which has been proven to have a direct link to Alzheimer’s disease. Lemon balm also increases attention span and improves memory.
Rosemary
With all the many benefits of rosemary, it’s hard to pinpoint just one. However, when talking about its stress reducing qualities, studies show that it decreases levels of the stress hormone, cortisol in the bloodstream. It also helps reduce cholesterol levels, regulate blood pressure and boosts the immune system.
Bergamot
One of the most potent anti-anxiety essential oils around, bergamot calms the nervous system, lowers blood pressure and quells those restless nights. It’s also been proven to boost happy mood neurotransmitters in the brain, dopamine, and serotonin.
It helps with digestion, which can be a factor when treating insomnia. Bergamot is also a disinfectant which hinders the growth of fungi and viruses. Bergamot actually comes from the citrus family and has a bright, citrus scent. The oil is derived from its rind. It’s safe for adults, children, and pregnant women. Bergamot can be inhaled or applied topically.
Make the most of your essential oils for stress with our FREE eBook “50 Wellness Uses for Aromatherapy”
Deika King, TND, MH, CCT, PSc.D
Traditional Doctor of Naturopathy Houston
832-422-7271
