Essential Oils for Relaxation

There are people who strongly believe in the power of essential oils and there are those who have never tried them!

There are people who strongly believe in the power of essential oils and there are those who have never tried them! Throughout centuries, essential oils were used to heal the body and soul by many cultures. Some carbon dating of cave paintings suggests that essential oils were used as early as 18.000 B.C.

To learn more about the history of essential oils check out this video:

Essential oils are distilled from plants (including leaves, seeds, roots, flowers, fruits, etc.) To experience maximum benefits of essential oils, make sure to buy them from a reliable source. The chemical constituents of the essential oil that determines its therapeutic value, depend on the various factors; which part of the plant was used for the production of oil, is plant fertilizer organic or not, the climate and geographic origin, and so on.

In today’s world, many people are living under occasional or constant stress and, finding stillness and calmness has been challenging. Essential oils are one of the best natural remedies to help achieve inner peace, quiet down the busy, and relax the body tension. We give you the list of the essential oils to relieve stress and worry and relax the body.

via GIPHY

Frankincense

This powerful essential oil is also known as the “king of oils” and it has been used for centuries, most commonly in churches. Christian churches, of many denominations have used this ceremonial tree resin. According to the research, Frankincense helps reduce heart rate and blood pressure, reduces stress, and balances hormones. Besides having a positive effect in treating depression and anxiety, Frankincense is helpful in boosting the system and fighting viruses and bacteria.

Bergamot

The well-known citrus scent of Bergamot essential oils is used in perfumes but this powerful oil that comes from bergamot oranges also helps with stress and anxiety. having calming and uplifting abilities, Bergamot essential oil dissipates anxious feelings and improves circulation. It is also used as a natural antidepressant. Research shows that by inhaling Bergamot essential oil, cortisol levels (the stress hormone) are lowered and the negative emotions diminish.

Lavender

Lavender essential oil is probably the most popular and the most used all over the world. Besides the well-known benefits like healing burns, and preventing mosquito bites, Lavender essential oil greatly supports brain function and is very helpful with headaches. Lavender can be used to promote sleep and dissolve tension and it is scientifically proven that Lavender improves PTSD symptoms. This treasured oil leaves relax and calm everywhere it goes and is celebrated around the world This Learn more in DoCalm’s article: How to Make Lavender Oil Your Best Friend.

Jasmine

Jasmine oil is derived from the flower of jasmine plant and with its sweet and exotic fragrance, it is known to relax and soothes the body and enhances self-confidence. When it comes to reducing anxiety, Jasmine is of the most effective essential oils. When used regularly, jasmine uplifts the mood and regulates sleep. According to recent research, Jasmine reduces heart rate and calms the nerve activity.

Roman Chamomile

Used for centuries, Roman Chamomile is known to bring a sense of calmness abd relaxation for both body and mind. It is also beneficial for feelings of anger and irritability. For people suffering from insomnia, this oil has proven to be extremely helpful. During the Roman Empire, soldiers used Roman Chamomile to gain courage before battles and it is one of Saxons’ nine sacred herbs.

Read more about the incredible uses of this tried and trusted essential oil in the article below:

Geranium

Besides being a strong natural antiseptic, the Geranium essential oil is helpful when dealing with depression, stress. and anxiety. According to the research, when used during childbirth, Geranium helped reduce anxiety during labor and lowered blood pressure. The oil is derived from a plant species native to South Africa and it appreciated for its antibacterial, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Vetiver

Vetiver essential oil is derived from the aromatic roots of the plant called Vetiveria zizanioides. This “grounding oil” is also called the “Oil of Tranquility” and “The Fragrance of the Soil.” When applied or used aromatically, Vetiver essential oil helps with insomnia, anxiety, depression, fatigue, and concentration. Vetiver’s earthy scent encourages feelings of stillness, confidence, and tranquility.

How to use essential oils

There are several ways to use essential oils. Depending on your own preferences and the issue you want to address you can choose one of the following methods:

Direct Application of Essential Oils

Some of the oils are safe to apply directly onto the skin while others need to be diluted with carrier oils such as coconut, jojoba, olive oil, etc. Oils can be applied at the button of the feet, down the spine, behind the,  on the wrists.

There is a technique for using essential oils on the body, called layering. This means gradually applying one oil, rubbing it in, and then applying another oil. 

Essential oils can be used for massage, reflexology (applying essential oils to contact points and nerve endings), auricular therapy (applying the oils to specific points on the rim of the ears).

Aromatic Application of Essential Oils

To use oils through aromatic application means inhaling, smelling them. Inhaling essential oils is very beneficial for memory, emotions, and hormones and helpful for the sinuses, lungs, larynx, etc. There are several ways that you can use oils aromatically.

Diffusing Essential Oils

You can use a diffuser that breaks the oils into a fine mist that gets into the air and benefits everyone in the room. The oils can remain in the air for several hours even though the greatest benefit for the body is received in the first 15 minutes out of an hour.

Cupping Essential Oils

Direct inhalation from the bottle and what is known as “cupping” is another way you can aromatically use the oils. Cupping is a method of applying 1 to 2 drops of oils on your palms, cupping the hands over the mouth and nose and inhaling.

Besides these methods, you can also apply essentials oils to tissues, cotton balls, even bedsheets, and pillowcases.

As with every natural approach, you need to be patient and persistent. The more you use essential oils, the more benefits you will gain. You can use the oils individually or combine them into soothing and calming blends to help you breathe and reboot. Once again, be mindful of the quality of the essential oils you purchase and if using internally, make sure that the label says that it is safe for internal use.

Enjoy the beautiful magic of this natural source to support your health and reduce your stress.