Oils for Anxiety
Stress and anxiety can play a huge role in disease in our bodies, but we are often leading such busy lives that it seems to become unavoidable. However the effect and toll it can often have on our bodies, should ensure that we begin to take notice – remember the old adage – “take time to stop and smell the roses”.
While many people may turn to pharmaceuticals, coffee, chocolate, food or alcohol to help them cope, many of these can actually increase symptoms in the long term. Here I wanted to explore a few essential oils that you could add to your toolkit when learning how to manage your stress and anxiety, because often it’s a multi-facated answer that helps us through.
Why Essential Oils?
Essential oils have been around for centuries, dating back as far as Biblical days when Jesus was anointed with Frankincense and myrrh by the wise kings at his birth. Although there are records of them being used in a variety of ancient cultures such as Egypt, China, India and Europe. In World War II, when medications were harder to come by, some doctors and surgeons would treat the soldiers with oils. This was especially prevalent among the French, who were used to medicinal aromatherapy.
Our olfactory system is amazing – when we inhale the aroma of an essential oil, our body and brain kick into action and begin releasing serotonin and dopamine – which you may know as our ‘feel good’ neurotransmitters. It can have other effects on our bodies too, including blood pressure and emotions (do you ever smell lavender and remember an aunt or grandma that used to have wear it?). It can also change your heart rate, breathing, hormones and decrease stress levels. Just the very act of deep breathing, or deeply inhaling the aroma of an essential oil can help calm our breathing, as well as lower heart rate and cortisol levels.
My top 7 Oils for anxiety
Bergamot – this is a refreshing scent that uplifts the spirit and helps with feelings of pain, anxiety, depression and sadness. It’s limonene content is allows for a deeper level of relaxation.
Basil – An uplifting refreshing scent that works against depression, fatigue, and anxiety.
Clary Sage – can help with insomnia, anxiety and depression.
Frankincense – ‘King of the Oils’ This is one of the best essential oils to slow down your breathing which helps to reduce feelings of fear, nervous tension, stress and anxiety.
Lavender – Another incredible oil that is a true cure-for-all from insomnia to bites, stings and burns. It also aids with headaches, migraine, fear, anxiety, depression, nervousness, hypertension, having a calming and relaxing effect on body and mind.
Ylang-Ylang – This relaxing scent balances male and female energies. It’s scent restores confidence and equilibrium and can be used to treat insomnia, anxiety and depression.
Chamomile – Roman or German Chamomile work well, but I would always go German Chamomile if you can. It is known for it’s relaxant, carminative and sedative properties. Chamomile is also a great skin herb.
Using a diffuser in your home or workplace is a great way to distribute your essential oils. Do be careful at home with young babies and animals particularly cats and birds in small rooms if you are thinking of diffusing. Diffusing is always better than burning essential oils.
If you would like a personal blend made up, to purchase individual oils or help with selecting the right diffuser for you, then please get in touch at Peaknaturalhealth.com.au
