Essential Oils for Relaxation - Continued

Bergamot

A main ingredient in Earl Gray tea, citrus bergamot is a hybrid of bitter orange and lemon. One study found its essential oil relieves tension and anxiety. Another study found bergamot essential oil used as a fragrance in aromatherapy reduces heart rate, blood pressure, and stress. In addition to relieving stress, bergamot has been found to reduce chronic pain.

Ylang Ylang

This essential oil for relaxation has a sweet fragrant aroma. Ylang Ylang is a tropical flower found in Southeast Asia. A study showed that Ylang Ylang essential oils decreased blood pressure and calmed the nervous system.

Jasmine

The scent from the jasmine flower is sweet, and one study suggested that the aroma from jasmine tea can be relaxing.

Clary Sage

Scientists found that clary sage, an herb, can ease depression. Clary sage related to the common garden sage herb.

How to use essential oils for relaxation

Essential oils can be diluted in water and diffused into the air. You can purchase an aromatherapy diffuser, which fills a room with the scent of the essential oil you place in it. Diffusers come in a variety of designs and price points.

You can also place a few drops on your temple, which is located on your forehead. Just make sure you dilute the essential oils with a carrier oil, a vegetable oil such as coconut, olive, or grape seed oil. Dilution is needed so the oil, which you apply directly to your skin, is comfortable. The carrier oil should be odor-free so as not to affect the aroma of the essential oil. To dilute the essential oil, start with 6 drops of essential oil to one fluid ounce of carrier oil.

In addition to these six essential oils, you can find many more online. Many herbs have not been thoroughly studied. It’s wise to talk to a complementary, alternatives, or integrative health specialist.

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