Can they be applied directly to the skin or is a diffuser best? And which are best for stress? An aromatherapy expert weighs in.
Annie Millar
Laura Barry
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Essential oils are produced through a process of distillation of plants including flowers, fruit, wood, bark, herbs and spices. Drops of the oils can be used in burners, candles and diffusers to release their aroma into the air. They can also be combined with carrier oils and used topically in massage or as skin treatments.
“Massage is also an effective method of use to target specific areas of the body. Add a few drops to 5ml (1tsp) coconut oil and massage onto skin or even add to bath water as directed to promote a sense of calm and relax the body,” says Pat Princi-Jones, an aromatherapy specialist and educator at Oil Garden.
But why do just a few drops of these concentrated scents work wonders on our wellbeing; relieving stress, enhancing mood, relieving congestion, heightening energy and awareness, relaxing the muscles and even helping improve sleep?
It’s simple really, scent is one of our most powerful sensors. The connection between your nasal receptors and your brain is the reason why essential oils are effective.
Stress is something that many of us deal with on a daily basis. Although a little stress is normal, it isn’t normal to feel under pressure all the time. There are plenty of different ways to relieve stress, such as exercising, resting or engaging in a hobby, and essentials oils are another way you can relieve stress naturally.
“ It is well researched that scent can influence the way we feel and is capable of shifting moods,” says Pat. “This is attributed to the fact that the tiny particles of oil – once inhaled- have direct access to our brain’s emotional centre; the limbic system. Simply inhaling a few drops of certain essential oils can influence neurotransmitters in the brain and hence alter the way we feel.”
1. Lavender
“Lavender has been proven to be effective in the management of stress and restlessness. Its soft herbaceous scent and high levels of the compound linaloolare renowned for its calming effect on the central nervous system and sedative action on the mind and body. A few drops added to a bath will calm an overactive mind at the end of the day and added to the diffuser with sweet orange will ensure restful sleep. Add a few drops to 1 tsp of coconut oil and massage onto shoulders and back of neck to calm nerves and massage onto feet before retiring,” says Pat.
2. Cedarwood
“Cedarwood has been used for centuries for its restorative properties. It’s so powerful that it was traditionally used at burial rites and religious ceremonies to connect with the gods. A few deep breaths of this warm, woody base note will quieten the mind chatter and reduce persistent anxiety. Applied in massage and in the bath, it will always bring relief and restore a sense of peace,” says Pat.
3. Sweet orange
“Sweet orange and most other citrus oils are excellent for lifting moods. Bright top notes are instantly refreshing and calming to the senses. The delicious citrus notes of orange also provide a feeling of happiness, especially around children. The high limonene content makes it a nerve tonic. Diffuse daily for a burst of sweetness and joy or simply sprinkle a few drops on a tissue and inhale,” says Pat.
4. Neroli or Orange Blossom
“Perhaps one of the most notable oils for stress relief is Neroli or Orange Blossom, extracted from the delicate petals of the bitter orange tree. This exquisite floral is high in esters and renowned for its ability to reduce heightened states of anxiety. Its properties are indicated for modulating brain activity and stress. When combined with base oil and applied to the body it will relieve the most despondent of moods. Soak in a few drops to relieve states of anxiety or shock. Make up a roller ball with 12ml coconut and 5 drops Neroli and roll onto pulse points for comfort.”
5. Stress Relief Blend
“Formulated by experts to provide effective relief from nervous tension, this blend contains the soft, sweet notes of Orange, Mandarin and Lavender tempered by Bergamot’s sharp freshness and grounded by a Cedar wood base note. A few drops released into the air will not only rid the space of germs but also help you unwind at the end of a hectic day. Massage is also a very effective method of use to target specific areas of the body. Add a few drops to 5ml (1tsp) coconut oil and massage onto skin. Use only as directed.
