Aromatherapy is a natural way to alleviate tension and improve health and well-being. It entails inhaling the aroma of plant-derived oils.
Your olfactory system directly impacts the area of your brain responsible for controlling your emotions. The power of odors to evoke memories and emotions, whether pleasant or unpleasant, stems from this same reason. If you suffer from worry or stress, aromatherapy may be able to help you relax and unwind.
Aromatherapy, when coupled with more traditional pain relief methods, was even shown to be helpful in a 2016 review.
That being said, oils have multiple uses for relieving stress, including topical application and inhalation of the diluted aroma. It s best to follow the manufacturer s directions to get the most out of your oils. Testing a tiny skin patch before applying the oil topically is recommended to see if any reactions occur.
Besides, let’s discuss the best oils for stress relief and relaxation.
1. CBD Oil / CBD Olie
You may get / CBD olie, extracted from the hemp plant s seeds only, or full-spectrum oil, extracted from the Cannabis sativa plant.
Since every CBD oil / CBD olie is from food-grain varieties of hemp, there is minimal chance of intoxication from them. Hemp varieties grown for human use must have a tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content of less than 0.3%, according to research published in the Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research journal. That high you feel from marijuana is caused by a chemical called THC.
A 2015 review noted that there has been a recent uptick in interest in the potential of CBD oil / CBD olie as a treatment for neuropsychiatric disorders. According to the review s analysis of the literature, CBD oil has promising early results for the following uses:
Social anxiety disorder,
post-traumatic stress disorder
panic disorder
Research also suggests that CBD oil / CBD olie can help with acute anxiety, which is defined as a sudden onset of severe symptoms. However, research on its efficacy in treating persistent anxiety has been sparse.
Research conducted in 2019 found that CBD oil / CBD olie can reduce anxiety by influencing the CNS. Researchers observed that among 72 individuals suffering from anxiety or sleep disorders, 66.7% reported better sleep quality, and 79.2% reported less anxiety after using CBD oil / CBD olie.
2. Lavender Oil
For those new to aromatherapy or those with experience, lavender is a go-to essential oil. Lavender adds to the soothing impact because it is one of numerous oils with anxiolytic or anti-anxiety characteristics.
Research conducted in 2013 found that employees whose clothes were sprayed with a 3% lavender oil aromatherapy solution reported less stress at work.
Lavender is multipurpose and has a pleasant, aromatic aroma. A few drops in a diffuser, on the skin, or mixed with other oils and products are all viable options.
3. Chamomile Oil
The calming properties of the chamomile plant make it a popular tea component. Like other calming essential oils, chamomile can help you get a good night s rest.
The use of chamomile oil is supported by strong research. Many different health issues, including gastrointestinal distress, anxiety, wounds, pain, and insomnia, have been treated with it throughout the years.
After 8 weeks of treatment with chamomile extract, 58.1% of people with moderate to severe GAD reported less symptoms, according to a 2017 study. Chamomile treatment alleviated anxiety symptoms and raised morning cortisol levels, according to a small 2018 study.
Try diffusing or applying a few drops of Roman chamomile oil to your skin for a peaceful night s sleep.
4. Sandalwood Oil
The East Indian sandalwood tree, or Santalum album, is the source of sandalwood oil. Among all trees, this one is among the most precious.
Anxiolytic qualities and an earthy, warm aroma characterize sandalwood oil, making it an excellent choice for anxiety sufferers. Sandalwood oil was shown to effectively reduce anxiety in a short 2006 study. Although the results were encouraging, the sample size was insufficient to draw any firm conclusions.
Diffusing, topical use, or direct inhalation of the mild and woodsy oil are all viable options.
5. Clary Sage
The flowering herb known as clary sage (Salvia sclarea) originated in the Mediterranean region. Because of its potential effects on cortisol, the stress hormone, it is most useful for dealing with stress.
A study conducted in 2014 found that menopausal women who inhaled clary sage had an antidepressant-like effect, and their cortisol levels dropped significantly.
This oil has a sedative effect when diffused over a room or when applied topically to a cotton ball or tissue, which can be inhaled immediately. When diluted, it can also be applied straight to the skin.
6. Bergamot Oil
Another citrus-scented oil that helps with anxiety is bergamot. The source is the Citrus bergamia fruit, from which it is derived.
While there is little data on the effects of bergamot oil, what little there is suggests it might aid with tension and relaxation.
In 2017, researchers in a mental health facility discovered that patients moods improved after 15 minutes of inhaling bergamot oil while waiting for their appointments.
Diffusing or inhaling bergamot oil is a great way to enjoy its aroma. However, this oil reacts to sunlight because of its photosensitive qualities. When applied topically, bergamot can cause skin to respond negatively to sunlight, increasing the risk of sunburn.
In the end!
Irrespective of whether you re looking for an anxiety solution, a natural method to enhance your sleep, or something to stabilize your mood while meditation, there are numerous oils that have stress-reducing qualities. See a doctor if you re suffering from serious stress or other stress-related bodily issues.
