Essential oils are nature’s best-kept secret. These are naturally extracted from certain parts of plants, such as lavender. Each essential oil has its distinct essence contributing to its unique aromatic compounds.
I have included all the relevant details about essential oils, how they work, their usage, and their side effects. Also, I have covered some of the most effective essential oils for anxiety.
Table of Contents
What Are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are derived from different botanical species through mechanical methods such as cold pressing, distillation, by water/steam or through the microwave-assisted process.
These oils can be found in roots, flowers, leaves, or stems. Some studies have shown that certain types of essential oils may provide physiological and psychological benefits.
Also, lavender oil has been successfully used to treat insomnia in individuals suffering from sleep disturbances. These are used as alternative health therapy by practitioners, such as aromatherapy.
According to research conducted on the benefits of aromatherapy with essential oils, it is being found out that these oils can provide you some relief from various ailments.
Some of their uses include relieving symptoms of anxiety such as headache, indigestion, nervousness, etc.
The therapy with these oils is beneficial for stress reduction and energizes the individual for the next day’s work.
However, it is essential to note that not all these essential oils can serve as a cure. And they can’t be used as an alternative to medical therapy.
Be sure to check their brand quality before making a purchase. Some people may have allergic reactions. So, always do a patch test before trying and follow the guidelines properly.
But you can incorporate these oils with your prescribed medications as they can provide several benefits for your mental health.
You can use the essential oils for anxiety relief in different ways. You may add them to your bath gels, apply them on your skin, smell them, or put some drops in your bathtub.
Essential Oils Benefits
- It helps relieve anxiety, stress, and depression.
- Beneficial to enhance memory and attention span.
- It improves sleep quality.
- These oils provide calmness and a relaxed state of mind.
- Acts as alertness enhancer.
- It is a boon for women as it gives relief for muscle cramps during menstrual periods.
- Essential oils also contain mood-elevating properties.
Where To Apply Essential Oils For Anxiety?
It is recommended to dilute the essential oils with a carrier oil, such as sweet almond oil. Always read the instructions label before using the oil.
A person may consider doing a patch test before applying essential oils to the skin.
You can use essential oils for anxiety in following ways:
- Diluted essential oils can be used in your bathtub.
- You can use it in an aromatherapy diffuser.
- You can also add a few drops of it in a non-scented lotion.
- Put a few drops of it on a piece of fabric to keep in your pocket or on an aromatherapy bracelet or necklace.
- Essential oils can also be used as a part of your massage. Be sure to dilute them with a gentle carrier oil like almond.
Essential Oils For Anxiety
Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is one of the most common essential oils for anxiety, which is used in aromatherapy.
It helps relieve mood imbalances such as anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, and gastrointestinal distress. It has been derived from the distillation process.
One of the essential compounds found in lavender oil known as linalool has similar brain effects as common medications for anxiety, such as SSRIs.
One study found out that lavender oil has an anti-anxiety effect. When orally taken for six weeks, it showed improvement in the mental health of about 50 patients with PTSD.
Is Lavender Oil Safe To Use?
According to NCCIH, it is safe when used in moderation. However, if you are currently using any medications or are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a doctor before using them.
It must be used following the intended purposes and follow the dosage guidelines on the product.
Side Effects
- It may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. Do a patch test before using it.
- If you experience headache or nausea, discontinue using it.
How To Use Lavender Essential Oil For Anxiety?
You can enjoy a warm relaxing bath by adding a few drops of lavender oil to your bathwater. Try to combine a few drops of carrier oil along with it, like jojoba or almond oil.
You can also add a few drops of it onto a cloth and inhale its fragrance. Research has shown that inhalation of lavender oil can reduce anxiety symptoms.
Or, you can add it to an aromatherapy diffuser. Besides, you can also massage it into your skin.
Some Recommended Products
These are some products for those who wish to try lavender oil, and it is safe for them to do so.
- Red Silk Essentials Lavender Pre-Diluted Roll-on
It is a roll-on essential oil for anxiety, is made with 100% pure organic ingredients, and USDA certified. It involves therapeutic properties to create a calming effect and improves sleep quality. Moreover, it is also used as a mood booster and helps in stress reduction.
For usage, rub it on your temples or wrist for an immediate calming effect. It also helps your body produce powerful antioxidants and provides a relaxed state of mind.
- Plant Therapy Lavender Essential Oil
It is 100% pure, USDA organic essential oil and is tested by third-party experts to ensure quality. These are unadulterated and free from synthetics. Also, you can use it safely for children ages 2-10.
You can add it to an aromatherapy diffuser, which aids in relaxing and improving sleep quality or use it as a massage oil. Also, you can make your DIY natural soaps, candles, and lotions with it.
- Gya Labs Lavender Essential Oil
It is also 100% pure essential oil crafted for improving sleep quality, reducing stress, anxiety and ease tension. You can use it as a diffuser or in your bathwater. Consider using it with a gentle carrier oil such as jojoba.
Rose Oil
In aromatherapy, rose oil has shown significant anxiety-reducing benefits. It also helps relieve headaches and may treat hormonal imbalance. Moreover, rose oil helps reduce menstrual pain.
Studies showed its effectiveness in stimulating the brain to release endorphins called the ‘happy hormones.’
Researchers have also found the usage of rose essential oil in relieving depressive symptoms by the release of dopamine. It acts as a mood booster and can improve your memory and focus.
Possible Side Effects
- When inhaled and used topically, it has no side effects.
- You should not take it internally.
Always do a patch test before using rose oil.
How To Use Rose Oil For Anxiety?
You can inhale it using an aromatherapy diffuser or rub it on your skin. Be sure to use a gentle carrier oil along with it, such as almond, coconut, or jojoba oil. You can also do a rose oil massage or make a rose oil bath.
Recommended products
- Gya Labs Rose Essential Oil
It is helpful for stress relief and relaxation. Also, it is 100% pure oil and elevates mood. You can use it in diffusers or can make your soaps or candles.
- Plant Therapy Rose Absolute Essential
It is 100% pure essential oil, USDA certified, and safe for children ages 2-10. The oil is helpful to manage stress and grief. Add it to a diffuser or use it topically with a carrier oil like rosehip or jojoba oil.
Jatamansi
Jatamansi oil for anxiety is effective for many individuals as it helps reduce symptoms of anxiety.
According to Ayurveda, it is believed that such mood disorders are due to Vata imbalance. And, using jatamansi oil helps provide calmness and treats insomnia.
Some studies have also considered it a potent herb that boosts memory and improves your cognitive abilities, such as mental alertness and focus. It can also relieve inflammation and pain.
According to a study conducted on mice, it has been found that the jatamansi extract produces anti-anxiety effects.
An increase in neurotransmitter GABA was observed that helps in treating anxiety symptoms.
Possible Side Effects
- There is not much scientific evidence about its safety for pregnant and breastfeeding women. So, it is advisable to consult your doctor before using it.
- People suffering from hypersensitivity should avoid using it as it may cause skin irritation or nausea.
How To Use Jatamansi Oil For Anxiety?
Massage the diluted jatamansi oil into your forehead or temples.
Jasmine
Jasmine is one of the essential oils for anxiety that has proved to be an effective method to provide relief with anxiety symptoms.
Studies have shown its effectiveness in improving mood, giving calmness, and treating insomnia.
It has been used as a popular natural remedy for overcoming stress. Also, according to a 2013 study, inhaling jasmine oil has proved to be beneficial to improve health and increase romance.
Jasmine is also used to boost cognitive performance and concentration levels. Besides, it can help lower blood pressure and relieve fatigue.
Some researchers have considered it one of the best essential oils for calming the nervous system without any side effects.
Possible Side Effects
- Though, reports of skin irritation are very rare. Do a patch test before using it.
- If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a history of allergic reactions, consult your doctor before using jasmine oil.
How To Use Jasmine Oil For Anxiety?
You can inhale it or apply it to your skin. Try using it with a carrier oil like almond/ coconut oil. You can also use it for massage or for making soaps. You can also add the oil to your aromatherapy diffuser.
Recommended Products
- Senselab Jasmine Essential Oil
It is 100% pure and undiluted essential oil, GMP and HACCP certified, obtained through distillation of jasmine flowers. It is beneficial to treat insomnia, improving focus, and is a great option for aromatherapy massage.
- Plant Therapy Jasmine Absolute Essential Oil
It is 100% pure, kid-safe, and USDA-certified essential oil. It is successfully used for improving mood and provides an instant uplifting effect. Add it to a diffuser or use it directly on the skin with a carrier oil.
Esslux Jasmine Essential Oil
It is a premium-grade essential oil without any additives. It aids in boosting energy levels and provides relaxation with its fragrance. You can use it in a diffuser or can make DIY bath bombs or candles with it.
Valerian
It is derived from the roots of the plant that works on our nervous system to produce calmness. Valerian contains certain compounds that enhance sleep quality.
It is also considered as a powerful herb full of antioxidants that can be helpful for stress-related conditions.
As you might know, low levels of GABA are linked to anxiety. Valerian helps prevent the breakdown of GABA which provides a relaxed state of mind. You can also use it to reduce tension and headaches.
However, this essential oil a strong earthy scent which might not be preferred by every individual.
Possible Side Effects
- Dry mouth
- Upset stomach
- Heart palpitations
- Mental fogginess
How To Use Valerian Oil For Anxiety?
Add a few drops of Valerian to your aromatherapy diffuser and inhale it. You can also massage it at the bottom of your feet before going to sleep. Blend it with a carrier oil.
Recommended Products
Nature’s Answer Valerian Root
It is a non-GMO, alcohol free liquid which promotes peaceful sleep and can help relieve anxiety symptoms. It also provides calmness and a relaxed state of mind.
Chamomile
It is seen as a potent essential oil for anxiety which can help calm strong emotions and relaxes both mind and body. Also, Chamomile has anti-anxiety and stress-reducing properties.
Thus, it can help eliminate your negative thoughts, worries, and overactive mind.
Headache and menstrual pain are also known to be treated with their application. It can also treat insomnia with its sleep-enhancing properties.
Studies have found that massage with Chamomile essential oil helps decrease anxiety symptoms and stress levels.
It has also shown significant improvement in individuals suffering from depression.
Possible Side Effects
- Skin irritation or allergies
- If you are a pregnant woman or breastfeeding, first consult your doctor.
How To Use Chamomile Oil For Anxiety?
Add a few drops to warm water or massage the diluted chamomile into your skin. You can also use it in a diffuser and inhale it.
Recommended Products
- Plant Therapy Organic Chamomile Oil
It is 100% pure and USDA-certified essential oil. It produces highly calming and relaxing effects. Also, this essential oil can be used for children with anxiety. You can use it in a diffuser or apply it on skin with a carrier oil. You can also add a few drops of oil to a bubble bath.
- Gya Labs Organic Chamomile Essential Oil
It is 100% organic and provides long-lasting calming effects. Also, it can help improve sleep quality and relaxes both mind and body. You can use it in an aromatherapy diffuser for sleep.
If applying to skin, dilute it with a gentle carrier oil.
- Esslux Chamomile Essential Oil
It includes premium ingredients and under strict quality standards. It has a soothing and gentle effect that provides a relaxed state of mind.
You can use it in a diffuser before bedtime to improve sleep quality. Or, you can massage it or make your candles with it.
Lemon balm
Lemon balm is traditionally being used as a mood booster and improves cognitive functions such as increased memory, focus and mental alertness. It helps provide a relaxed state of mind and aids in stress reduction.
Also, it can help reduce anxiety symptoms, such as nervousness, nausea, and headache. Lemon balm can also be effective in providing relief from sleep difficulties such as insomnia.
It can also help ease menstrual cramps. It is also known as Melissa essential oil.
Side Effects
- Dizziness
- Stomach pain
- Skin irritation or allergies
How To Use Lemon Balm Oil For Anxiety?
You can consume it as tea or apply it to your skin as lotion or balm.
Recommended Products
- Gya Labs Melissa Essential Oil
It is made with 100% natural melissa essential oil. It is helpful for improving sleep quality and soothes your uneasy mind. Also, it can help in stress reduction and calm the mind. Use it in a diffuser or blend it with a carrier oil for topical use.
- Plant Therapy Melissa Essential Oil
It is 100% pure, undiluted, kid-safe essential oil which has calming and uplifting properties to ease stress. It also improves sleep quality. You can use it in a diffuser or you can use it as a massage oil by blending with carrier oils.
Conclusion
Essential oils are widely used in aromatherapy to help relieve anxiety and stress. These oils can sometimes cause skin allergies, so first, test them on a small patch of skin before applying them to large areas.
Although studies have shown the effectiveness of aromatherapy to relieve anxiety symptoms, it can’t serve as a substitute for seeing a healthcare professional.
If you’ve been struggling with symptoms, visit a mental health practitioner for treatment. And you can consider using the essential oil for additional benefits.