You may be wondering how essential oils work. Because smells are carried directly to the brain, they serve as emotional triggers. The limbic system evaluates the sensory stimuli, registering pleasure, pain, danger or safety. This then creates and ultimately directs our emotional response, which can include feelings of fear, anger, depression and attraction. Our basic emotions and hormonal balance are in response to the most basic smells. This makes scents very powerful in our day-to-day lives because they’re a direct pathway to memory and emotion — which is why they can fight depression and anxiety.
The Ones to Use
There are many essential oils that can help ease symptoms of stress, depression and anxiety. It’s important that you use the ones you like the most. Scents are very personal and they should be pleasing for you. Here is a list of some essential oils and their benefits.
Bergamot – Bergamot has a refreshing scent that uplifts the spirit and helps with feelings of pain, anxiety, depression, and sadness.
Basil - Uplifting refreshing scent that works against depression, fatigue, and anxiety.
Clary Sage – Clary sage can help with insomnia, anxiety, and depression.
Frankincense – One of the best essential oils to slow down your breathing which helps to reduce feelings of fear, nervous tension, stress, and anxiety.
Geranium – Works as a natural sedative to lift the spirit and release negative emotions. It works great to ease symptoms of depression and stress.
Jasmine – Jasmine has a relaxing flowery scent that is known for its antispasmodic and uplifting properties.
Lemon – Lemon’s refreshing scent has purifying and uplifting properties. It helps to combat negative emotions, stress, depression and boost your immunity.
Lavender -Lavender is a true cure-for-all. It helps with headaches, migranes, fear, anxiety, depression, nervousness, hypertension, and insomnia. It has a calming and relaxing effect on body and mind.
Mandarin – Mandarin has antispasmodic properties and works emotionally to uplift the spirit.
Marjoram – Marjoram has been used for ages to ease feelings of fear, loneliness, grief, rejection, and anxiety.
Wild Orange – Just as all the other citrus EOs, orange has a refreshing, energizing, and mood lifting effect. It works great to ease feelings of panic, anger, irritation, and nervousness.
Rose – Its great fragrance has a stimulating effect on the entire nervous system and helps to create a sense of well-being.
