The Best Essential Oils for Stress and Anxiety: A Review of the Research

Essential oils are concentrated liquids derived from plants and have been used for thousands of years for various purposes, including for their aroma and for their potential health benefits. When it comes to stress and anxiety, a number of essential oils have been studied for their potential to help reduce these symptoms.

Some of the best essential oils for stress and anxiety include:

  1. Lavender: Lavender is one of the most well-known essential oils for reducing stress and anxiety. A number of studies have shown that inhaling lavender oil or applying it to the skin can help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
  2. Bergamot: Bergamot is a type of citrus oil that has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system and may help reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety.
  3. Roman chamomile: Roman chamomile is a sweet-smelling oil that has been used for centuries for its calming properties. Studies have shown that inhaling chamomile oil or applying it to the skin can help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
  4. Ylang-ylang: Ylang-ylang is a sweet-smelling oil that has been used for centuries for its calming properties. Studies have shown that inhaling ylang-ylang oil can help reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety.
  5. Sandalwood: Sandalwood has a calming and grounding aroma that can help reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety.

    Free essential oil image. Cosmetic public domain CC0 photo.

 

It is important to note that while these oils may have potential benefits, the evidence is still limited and more research is needed to confirm their effects and determine the optimal dose. Additionally, essential oils are highly concentrated and should be used with caution. It is best to dilute essential oils in a carrier oil before applying them to the skin, and to avoid ingesting essential oils unless under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Overall, essential oils can be a natural and effective way to help reduce stress and anxiety, but it is important to use them safely and responsibly. If you are experiencing symptoms of stress or anxiety, it is best to consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan.

Side effect of essential oils

Essential oils are highly concentrated liquids derived from plants, and while they may have potential health benefits, they can also have side effects. Some of the most common side effects of essential oils include:

  1. Skin irritation: Some essential oils can cause skin irritation, redness, or rash when applied directly to the skin. It is best to dilute essential oils in a carrier oil before applying them to the skin to reduce the risk of skin irritation.
  2. Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to certain essential oils, and can experience symptoms such as itching, redness, hives, or difficulty breathing.
  3. Interactions with medications: Certain essential oils can interact with medications, including blood-thinning medications, and can increase the risk of bleeding or other side effects.
  4. Toxicity: Essential oils are highly concentrated and can be toxic if ingested in large quantities. Ingesting essential oils should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
  5. Sensitization: Using the same essential oil repeatedly can lead to sensitization, where the individual becomes allergic to the oil over time.

It is important to use essential oils with caution and to follow the recommended dose and usage guidelines. If you experience any adverse reactions, it is best to stop using the oil and to consult a healthcare professional. Additionally, if you are pregnant, nursing, or have any medical conditions, it is best to consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils.