Aromatherapy uses the scent of essential oils to treat various symptoms, such as pain and anxiety. The oil can be inhaled or diluted and applied to the skin.
Inhaling aromatherapy using lavender and chamomile oils has been found to relieve anxiety in studies. Other oils that may reduce anxiety include sage and bergamot.
What are essential oils?
Essential oils are bottled plant extracts that contain unique fragrances and are believed to have therapeutic properties. They’re usually made by steaming or pressing parts of a plant, like flowers, bark, leaves or fruits, to capture the compounds that produce their scents. It can take several pounds of plant material to make just one bottle of essential oil.
The unique aromas of these oils are thought to affect the brain through the sense of smell. When inhaled, the scent molecules travel from the olfactory nerves into the brain, where they impact a region called the amygdala. This can help reduce anxiety and stress.
People also apply essential oils to the skin, typically by diluting them in another oil or in water. It’s important to buy high-quality oils from reputable companies that have transparent ingredient lists and distillation processes. Avoid products with marketing claims or “therapeutic grade” labels, and look for dark-colored glass bottles to protect the oils’ quality.
What are the benefits of aromatherapy?
Adding scents like lavender or chamomile to your daily routine can help calm you and improve mood. Aromatherapy may also relieve stress by lowering activation of the nervous system responsible for your fight-or-flight response and physical symptoms like sweaty palms or a racing heart.
Studies show that the smell of certain essential oils can cause your brain to release hormones that boost your mood and relax you. These oils are used in aromatherapy through inhalation, in a carrier oil or diluted with a skin-care product to be applied topically.
Aromatherapy is considered safe when used properly under the guidance of a trained professional. But before trying, speak with your healthcare provider to see if it might be right for you. They can explain the potential risks and benefits based on your medical history and current health condition. This includes if it’s safe for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding or if there’s any specific medical condition you have that might make you more sensitive to the oils.
How do I use aromatherapy?
When inhaled or applied topically, aromatherapy can calm anxiety and alleviate pain. It can also energize the body when used as a room spray or in a massage oil.
Aromatherapy may help people with trait anxiety, a type of anxiety that is more constant and can’t be turned off like some other types. Your healthcare provider can tell you more about the possible benefits of aromatherapy in your unique situation.
Always dilute essential oils before using them on the skin, which means adding them to a carrier oil or dispersant. For example, you can add a few drops of lavender or chamomile to your bath, or you can apply diluted frankincense and lavender oil to the bottom of your feet before bed to calm anxiety and promote sleep. You can also use an aromatherapy vaporizer or diffuser to inhale a mixture of essential oils. You can also make your own aromatherapy spray with essential oils and a dispersant, such as jojoba oil or solubol.
