February 5, 2025
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4 MIN READ
How to Use Essential Oils for Anxiety: A Beginner’s Guide
Anxiety can feel overwhelming, affecting both mind and body. While lifestyle changes and mindfulness techniques can help, many people turn to aromatherapy as a natural way to ease anxious feelings.
Essential oils, extracted from plants, have been used for centuries for their therapeutic benefits. But do they really work for anxiety? Research suggests they do - certain essential oils have calming properties that can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. In this guide, we’ll explore the best essential oils for anxiety, how they work, and how to use them safely for emotional well-being.
Key Takeaways
- Essential oils like Lavender, Bergamot, and Frankincense have natural calming effects that help reduce anxiety.
- Aromatherapy works by influencing the brain’s limbic system, which controls emotions.
- Inhalation, topical application, diffusing essential oils, and using aromatherapy candles are effective ways to experience their benefits.
The Best Essential Oils for Anxiety
Different essential oils offer unique calming properties. Here are some of the most effective ones for easing anxiety:
Lavender
One of the most researched essential oils for anxiety, lavender has been shown to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Studies suggest it can lower cortisol levels and support better sleep.
Bergamot
A citrus oil with a bright, uplifting scent, bergamot is known to relieve stress and boost mood. Research indicates it may help lower heart rate and blood pressure, making it useful for anxiety relief.
Chamomile
This soothing oil is widely used for relaxation and is particularly helpful for sleep-related anxiety.
Frankincense
A grounding oil that helps deepen breathing and calm the mind, frankincense is often used in meditation and stress relief practices.
Orange
A cheerful, sweet scent that can help reduce anxious thoughts and uplift the spirit.
Neroli
Extracted from orange blossoms, neroli has a deeply relaxing aroma and has been shown to help with anxiety and stress.
Jasmine
Known for its intoxicating floral scent, jasmine is often used to ease nervous tension and promote emotional well-being.
How Essential Oils Help Anxiety
Essential oils work by influencing the limbic system, the part of the brain responsible for emotions and memory. When inhaled or applied to the skin, essential oils send signals to the brain that can help:
- Lower stress hormone (cortisol) levels
- Improve mood and relaxation
- Regulate heart rate and blood pressure
- Promote better sleep quality
Studies have shown that inhaling essential oils like lavender and bergamot can have measurable calming effects.
How to Use Essential Oils for Anxiety
Aromatherapy diffuser
Add a few drops of essential oil to a diffuser to spread the calming aroma throughout your bedroom.
Aromatherapy bath
Mix 10 drops of essential oil with a carrier oil for a soothing bath. Pre-blended bath oils are safer as they include an emulsifier, ensuring the essential oil disperses evenly in the water.
Drops on your pillow
Place a few drops of oil on your pillow. Avoid direct contact with where your face will rest to prevent irritation.
Dry inhalation
Put a few drops of oil on a tissue or cotton ball and inhale deeply. Keep the cotton away from your skin during use.
Aromatherapy candles
Lighting an aromatherapy candle made with pure essential oils and natural soy wax can help create a calming atmosphere. Unlike artificial fragrance candles, which often contain synthetic chemicals, candles infused with essential oils provide a natural, therapeutic way to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
Aromatherapy skincare
Turn your skincare routine into self-care. Choose skincare products infused with relaxing essential oil blends. Natural skincare brand, Amaranthine, infuses aromatherapy into their skin care products so that they have holistic benefits for both your skin and mood.
Topical application
Dilute essential oils with a carrier oil (like jojoba or sweet almond oil) and apply to pulse points (wrists, temples, behind the ears).
Essential oils are highly concentrated and should always be diluted before use. Applying them directly to your skin can cause irritation or even allergic reactions.
Follow these steps for safe use:
- Dilute with a carrier oil - mix essential oils with a carrier oil like jojoba or almond oil. This ensures even application and safety.
- Follow dilution guidelines - stick to a 1% dilution. Never apply essential oils neat on the skin.
- Patch test - always test a small amount on your skin to check for reactions.
Essential Oil Safety Precautions
Before using any essential oil, check its safety guidelines. Some oils may cause increased sensitivity to sunlight, sensitisation or irritation.
Certain oils should also be avoided during pregnancy or with specific medical conditions. Always consult safety data or seek advice from a trained aromatherapist.
Self Care Rituals
Aromatherapy is a simple, natural way to support emotional well-being. Whether you diffuse lavender before bed, massage bergamot-infused oil onto your wrists, or take a warm bath with chamomile, essential oils can provide a comforting sense of calm.
By incorporating them into your daily routine, you can create moments of relaxation that help ease anxiety and stress. Always choose high-quality, pure essential oils and use them safely to enjoy their full benefits.
Looking for beautifully crafted, natural skincare infused with calming aromatherapy? Explore our collection at Amaranthine Beauty and discover self-care rituals that nourish both skin and soul.
References
Benefits of inhalation in aromatherapy as a complementary treatment for stress and anxiety - read the study here.
The use of essential oils as a complementary treatment for anxiety - read the study here.
Our products mentioned in this article
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Sarah Rueger
About the author
Sarah is the founder of certified palm oil free natural skincare brand Amaranthine. She is a qualified organic skincare formulator and has diplomas in Beauty Therapy and Clinical Aromatherapy.
