Aromatherapy involves the use of essential oils to heal emotional or physical imbalance. Essential oils can play an integral part in reducing stress. They are versatile and easy to use. There are many applications for their use. Here are some practical suggestions on how to use the oils and which to choose to ease stress and anxiety.
What are essential oils?
Essential oils are very concentrated natural plant extracts that are able to penetrate cells and disperse throughout the body within a short period of time as they are absorbed quickly through the skin. The human sense of smell is ten thousand times greater than than of taste and because the sense of smell is the only one of the five senses directly linked to the limbic lode of the brain, the emotional control center of the brain will be activated by aromas. Due to this unique connection between aromas and the brain, there are many oils that can be effective in helping reduce stress and anxiety.
How to use essential oils
First, begin with a high quality, unadulterated essential oil from a reputable company. The oil should never be synthetic. Pregnant women should consult their physicians before using essential oils. You can use the oils in massage by adding 3-4 drops of essential oil to a carrier oil such as jojoba or sweet almond oil. You can also add the same amount of drops to your bath water or to Epsom salts. You can wear the essential oil as a perfume by diluting in a little carrier oil first or using neat if you have already ascertained that you are not sensitive. Or you can diffuse oils by purchasing a diffuser that is designed to disperse a fine mist of oil into the air. And finally, you can simply inhale the oil by putting several drops in the hands and cupping the hands over the nose and breathing deeply.
Suggested oils for anxiety:
• Lavender
This oil is one of the best known and most versatile of all essential oils. It has long been regarded as soothing and calming and has been used for hundreds of years in cosmetic products, sachets and perfumes. It has been clinically evaluated for its relaxing and soothing effects on the emotional body. Diffuse close to the bed before sleep or place a few drops on the pillowcase. You might also mix five drops in a quarter cup of good quality unscented oil such as jojoba or sweet almond and use as a body massage after a warm bath. Lavender is excellent for insomnia due to its sedative properties.
• Geranium
Essential oil of geranium is widely used in aromatherapy for relaxation. Historically it has often been associated with mothering and spirituality and is wonderful to use diluted in a carrier oil as nighttime massage oil. It is indicated in cases of adrenal deficiency and exhaustion and works to soothe worry and facilitates relaxation.
• Ylang Ylang
Ylang Ylang possesses a very sweet fragrance and thus should be used sparingly. It is extremely relaxing and is best used as a perfume or in massage oil. It helps with stress, tension, anxiety and feeling burned out. It makes a wonderful perfume when mixed with equal quantities of rosemary and lavender.
• Frankincense
This deeply spiritual oil has a long history of use. It possesses unique qualities that can help with stress, tension, exhaustion and panic. Dilute a few drops in a tablespoon of carrier oil and massage over the chest. You will be able to inhale the aroma and feel connected to its relaxing qualities all day.
There are many ways to use aromatherapy oils on a day to day basis. Lavender, Geranium, Ylang Ylang and Frankincense are invaluable aids in dealing with stress and anxiety and are very versatile.
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only. Please consult your medical doctor or professional for advice before use. If you are pregnant, get permission from your medical professional before using any aromatherapy oil.
Source:
Mein, Carolyn L. Releasing Emotional Patterns with Essential Oils. Print.
Alexandra Clark - Alexandra Clark has always been interested in alternative health and healing. She transferred from a career as a translator of Spanish and ...
Join the Conversation