Aromatherapy involves inhaling the scent of natural oils extracted from certain plants and can be an effective natural remedy to reduce stress and infuse a general sense of calm.
You can even apply them to your skin, take them with drinking water, disperse them in the air, or store them in a spray bottle.
Essential oils are basically those oils that are made from flowers, herbs, and tree parts. True essential oils are not blended and are extracted by a special process that doesn’t change the chemistry of the plant.
How does aromatherapy work?
Aromatherapy is said to activate the smell receptors in the nose, which then transmits the message through your nervous system directly to the brain. The oil then activates areas of the limbic system which is responsible for creating emotions.
Here are six essential oils for stress relief, mental clarity, and focus and to put you at ease with whatever you are doing.
1. Rosemary
If you pass by a rosemary bush, you will notice how soothing its scent is. The relaxing aroma of rosemary essential oil helps relieve mental tiredness. The powerful and earthy smell of rosemary can improve your cognition and memory when impaired in a study environment when doing coursework or help you focus on your online master’s degree for career advancement.
2. Lavender
Multiple studies have proved that lavender oil can reduce feelings of anxiety and stress because of its relaxing and soothing properties. Lavender essential oil has been seen to improve symptoms of disturbed sleep, restfulness, and mood swings. Diffuse a few drops of this oil or apply it topically on your wrist if you are dealing with high-stress levels.
3. Bergamot
The citrus smell of Bergamot is said to alleviate feelings of anxiety, promote relaxation and reduce stress by activating the body’s parasympathetic system that controls the blood pressure and heartbeat. If you are feeling overwhelmed emotionally, try diffusing Bergamo with Lavender for best results.
4. Clary Sage
Known for its excellent hormone balancing properties, Clary Sage has been used since ancient times to reduce cortisol levels, also known as the stress hormone. Diffusing Clary Sage induces a state of relaxation, and calmness and enhances the mood.
5. Roman Chamomile
One of the oldest medicinal herbs in use, Roman Chamomile has been known to soothe the mind and body and thereby relieve stress. This essential oil promotes healthy sleeping cycles to put you in a relaxed state. Next time you are feeling stressed, diffuse five drops of Roman Chamomile before bed, after pairing with Lavender or Bergamot.
6. Jasmine
The floral aroma of Jasmine essential oil induces peaceful thoughts and freshness with just one whiff. You can also put 4-5 drops of Jasmine essential oil in a diffuser bowl filled with three-quarters cup of water or add it to your bathing bucket. Alternately, put a couple of drops on a tissue paper and inhale it to overcome nervousness and depression. It also helps in reducing stress by building confidence and a sense of calm.