Fragrant essential oils have powerful effects on the emotions and can help to relieve stress and anxiety when used in baths and massages, or even by placing a drop or two on a handkerchief and inhaling the fragrance. The following essential oils are especially helpful for easing emotional distress.Bergamot has a sweet, spicy, citrusy fragrance. It has a refreshing and uplifting effect on the emotions and is helpful for both stress and anxiety.
Bergamot contains a compound called bergapten that can cause skin photosensitivity, so use a bergapten-free oil.
Frankincense has a warm, rich, sweet balsamic fragrance and has been used as an incense since ancient times to promote a sense of peace and to soothe the spirit. It has sedative properties and slows and deepens the breathing, which helps to relieve stress and anxiety.
Lavender has a sweet, herbaceous, floral, and balsamic fragrance. It is balancing for the body and emotions and helps to relieve anxiety, nervous stress, and headaches or insomnia that are caused by tension.
Marjoram has a warm, herbaceous, slightly spicy fragrance. It has potent sedative properties, eases nervous tension and irritability, and is helpful for stress-related disorders such as muscle tension and headaches.
Rose has a sweet, floral, intensely rose fragrance. It has mild sedative and balancing effects on the psyche, is soothing and comforting, and promotes a feeling of well-being.
Sandalwood has a deep, rich, woodsy fragrance. It has mild sedative properties, engenders a sense of peaceful relaxation, and is helpful for relieving anxiety and all stress-related complaints. Burning sandalwood incense creates a peaceful atmosphere.
Ylang ylang has a very sweet, exotic floral fragrance and has a sedative and slightly euphoric effect on the emotions. It is helpful for both anxiety and nervous tension. A drop or two of ylang ylang is sufficient-beware of overdosing, because too much can cause headaches or nausea.
Health Tips , Natural Stress Remedies
