Essential oils help people heal and relax, diminish feelings of fatigue and anxiety. Many of them work stimulate certain areas of the body and alleviate symptoms of distress. They can affect parts of the brain that control emotions, behaviour, motivation, long-term memory, and assist in lowering depression, anxiety, and self-doubt.
Which oils?
Basil
The reason basil is effective is because it helps to remove stress and calm the nervous system. It stimulates the adrenal glands giving you more motivation and more energy. Having more energy helps you become more productive and this increases your mood and level of satisfaction. Basil oil lowering your stress makes you feel stronger and more resilient. It is also rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. This oil however, should not be used when pregnant as it may cause early contractions.
Lemon
Lemon helps to boost your dopamine and serotonin levels. These two hormones directly affect your overall wellbeing. An increase of dopamine makes you feel more mentally alert. It helps to improve your concentration and general mood. This makes it easier to perform your work, as well as to interact better with others. Serotonin increase balances your mood and prevents depression.
Lavender
Although it is popularly used for relaxation, lavender oil also has a clear uplifting effect that lifts your mood. It reduces anxiety so you are calmer. It also helps you sleep better which will help you feel better the next day. Lavender is good for your immune system so it can help you kick that cold, or prevent you from actually getting one. Lavender oil can be used in your bath, a diffuser or even a quick whiff out of the bottle will help.
Bergamot
Bergamot oil has been shown to decrease work-related stress. Bergamot reduces the amount of cortisol in the body helping to reduce the feelings of anxiety. Using Bergamot helps lower your blood pressure and heart rate putting you in a more relaxed state. Bergamot also helps reduce the feeling of mental and physical fatigue.
Jasmine
Jasmine produces a calming and romantic effect so it can help with anxiety, stress and aggression which promotes a feeling of well-being. It can also make you feel more energetic. This essential oil is another one to avoid when pregnant as it may cause early labour.
Rose
Rose oil is great for alleviating depression as well as anxiety. The scent of roses boosts your self-esteem, makes you more confident and appealing and helps boost libido. Often people have fond memories associated with roses which in itself helps to lift your mood.
If you feel your mood, energy or wellbeing could do with a lift then look at some aromatherapy blends and energy elixirs. These can be specifically designed for your needs. Always use completely natural oils and mix them in a carrier oil if you are going to wear them on your skin. Best to consult a therapist to do it for you so you know the right quantities have been mixed together. Now that spring is coming it’s a great way to rejuvenate, relax and prepare to enjoy the summer sunshine.
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