Anxiety is something that we all deal with from time-to-time. In fact, almost 40million Americans or 18% of the population over the age of 18 suffer from anxiety. While dealing with the symptoms associated with anxiety are far from enjoyable, take comfort in knowing that using simple remedies, such as essential oils, you can do a lot to overcome these symptoms and get back to a state of relaxation and balance. No one approach is perfect or work magically, but we hope to share some practical tips with you to help with anxiety because we know that every little change can make a big impact.
How do smells help with anxiety?
When we smell an essential oil, we have what’s called an olfactory response. The essential oil travels through the olfactory system and reaches the limbic part of the brain. The limbic area of the brain is thought to be one of the oldest parts of the brain and has a direct connection with emotions and memory. That being said, it makes sense that using an essential oil that is calming and relaxing can have very positive benefits when dealing with anxiety.
Keeping in mind how the essential oils work on our limbic brain, using oils aromatically is going to be the most effective use when dealing with anxiety.
Inhaling the Essential Oils
Using a diffuser, smelling salts, diffuser jewelry, or a personal inhaler are all great ways of using essential oils aromatically. You can also add a few drops to a cotton ball or tissue and take sniffs of it as you go through your day.
Aromatherapy in Massage Oils and Lotions
In saying that, you can still reap the benefits if you use the oils in a massage oil or lotion like Aromalief. Not only will you benefit from the sense of touch as these applications are applied, but you’ll still receive the olfactory benefits of being able to smell the oils as well. Additionally, applying essential oils to pulse points can make for a personalized, natural perfume while helping you to overcome stressful and anxious feelings.
Aromatherapy in Action
When it comes to using essential oils for anxiety, keep in mind that aromatherapy can be used as you experience anxiety, for example when you’re dealing with an anxiety attack, but it can also be used on an ongoing basis to help minimize anxiety. That being said, I feel it’s important to make essential oils a part of your daily lifestyle to get the maximum effects.
Best Essential Oils for Anxiety:
Here is a list of the top 10 essential oils for anxiety. Feel free to try several and experiment to find the one that will help you the most.
- Sweet Orange
- Lavender
- Vetiver
- Ho Wood
- Sweet Marjoram
- Sandalwood
- Frankincense
- Patchouli
- Bergamot
- Roman Chamomile
Ways these oils can be used in battling anxiety:
- Dilute to 2.5% and apply topically – this can be done in a roller bottle, massage oil, or lotion. 2. Add 3 to 5 drops to a diffuser and enjoy the aromatic benefits. 3. Nasal Inhaler/Smelling Salts 4. In a lotion or massage oil 5. In an aromatic spritzer 6. Bath salts
Using the tips in this article, I hope you’re able to find relief from any anxious feelings you may be experiencing. Remember, you can use the oils before anxiety hits, or you can use them actively when you’re experiencing anxiety. Either way, essential oils make a great remedy for keeping our emotions balanced.
Anxiety is real and it's nothing to be embarrassed about. If you have any other topics you would like us to cover, email us at info@aromalief.com
This post is not intended to replace medical advice. Please consult a medical professional.
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