Aromatherapy for Stress and Anxiety Aromatherapy has been used around the world and for many centuries.

Aromatherapy is a popular natural approach that uses essential oils from plants to create calming scents and relaxation rituals. Many people use essential oils as part of their stress-management routine to support relaxation, sleep, and emotional well-being.

Aromatherapy is one approach within natural anxiety support. You can explore other options in our Natural Medicine for Anxiety section.

History reminds us, as in the Christmas story, of the 3 Wise Men that brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. Frankincense is known for its ability to calm the mind and encourage the release of oppressive feelings. Myrrh is used to lift feelings of weakness and raise consciousness, but it also has healing properties and was commonly used in Bible times as a medicine.

Essential oils used for aromatherapy and relaxation

Today, people use essential oils to help promote a sense of well-being and to promote a positive mental state. This positive mental state also affects the body. Research suggests that inhaling certain essential oils may influence activity in parts of the brain involved in emotion, stress response, and relaxation, which may contribute to feelings of calm or improved mood.

Have you ever wondered why certain smells make you feel physically sick and may even give you a headache, while other smells can create a sense of peace and tranquility or sensuality? Our sense of smell is a powerful thing!

Different essential oils are used to promote different moods. For example, lemon oil is commonly used to stimulate the mind and improve mental clarity and focus, while lavender oil is commonly used to calm and balance strong emotions such as anxiety, panic, nervousness, frustration, irritability and insomnia.

Essential Oils

There are many different essential oils that are used for a wide variety of purposes—far too many to list here. However, below you will find some of the most commonly used essential oils used for stress, anxiety and mild depression. While you can find essential oils at most big box stores, you'll want to look for essential oils that are pure, organically sourced when possible, and sold by reputable companies that provide quality testing information.

Lavender – commonly used to encourage relaxation, ease tension, and support restful sleep.
Vanilla – often chosen for its warm, comforting aroma that many people find soothing.
Lime – a fresh, uplifting scent that may help promote a positive mood and mental energy.
Bergamot – frequently used to promote calmness and emotional balance.
Lemon – commonly used to encourage alertness, mental clarity, and focus.
Orange – a bright citrus aroma often associated with uplifting mood and relaxation.
Patchouli – valued for its grounding aroma and calming properties.
Grapefruit – often used to create a refreshing, optimistic atmosphere.
Jasmine – commonly appreciated for its calming scent and confidence-boosting aroma.
Chamomile – traditionally used to promote relaxation and a sense of calm.
Eucalyptus – known for its fresh, invigorating scent that many people find mentally refreshing.
Clary Sage – often used to encourage relaxation, creativity, and emotional balance.
Ylang Ylang – commonly used to create a calming, peaceful atmosphere.
Cinnamon – a warm, comforting aroma often used to create feelings of warmth and vitality.
Rose – traditionally associated with comfort, emotional well-being, and relaxation.
Peppermint – commonly used to promote alertness, concentration, and mental clarity.

If you are undecided, a good place to begin is with Mountain Rose Herbs Calming Essential Oil Blend that was created by their own Aromatherapist using organic lavender, organic clary sage, earthy organic vetiver with a touch of blue tansy oil.

How Essential Oils May Help Anxiety and Stress

Essential oils do not cure anxiety disorders, but many people find them helpful as part of an overall stress-management routine. Aromatherapy may encourage relaxation, improve sleep quality, reduce feelings of tension, and create calming rituals that support emotional well-being. Essential oils often work best when combined with other healthy habits such as exercise, proper sleep, breathing exercises, therapy, and stress-management techniques.

Essential Oils and Fragrance Oils - What's the Difference?

Most commonly, people often use aromatherapy products such as candles, diffusers, body sprays, soaps, bath salts, oils, shampoos, conditioners and lotions. However, not all aromatherapy products are the same.

ESSENTIAL OIL Facts:

There are well over 100 unique essential oils.

They are pure and natural.

Some studies suggest that certain essential oils may provide therapeutic benefits for relaxation, mood, and stress reduction.

They are extracted from plant parts - such as bark, seeds, roots, berries, skins and rinds.

They are more expensive than fragrance oils.

THESE ARE WHAT YOU WANT!

FRAGRANCE OIL Facts:

They are not pure.

There is no therapeutic effect, they simply just smell good.

They are mixed with other synthetic oils and substances.

Some individuals may experience headaches, dizziness, or irritation from synthetic fragrances.

They are less expensive.

THESE ARE GENERALLY NOT PREFERRED FOR AROMATHERAPY PURPOSES.

It is important when using aromatherapy for stress and anxiety, to use products that contain pure essential oils. Synthetic fragrance oils generally do not provide the same aromatherapy benefits associated with pure essential oils because they are primarily designed for scent rather than therapeutic use. There are many products on the market today, such as candles, diffusers, body sprays, soaps, bath salts, oils, shampoos, conditioners and lotions that contain pure essential oils.

It is generally best to choose pure essential oils from reputable companies that provide information about sourcing and quality testing. 100% pure essential oils will always vary in pricing depending on the oil. While lavender oil is quite common and generally affordable, there are oils, such as jasmine that can be quite costly. Real jasmine is never cheap.

Basic Ways You Can Use Essential Oils

There are simple ways to use essential oils that make aromatherapy easy. Here are some suggestions for usage:

Bathtub - add approx. 10 drops of essential oil to bath water
Body Oil - add 12-15 drops per 1oz. body oil (such as jojoba)
Body Lotion - add 50-60 drops per 16oz. unscented body lotion
Body Mist - add 10-15 drops per 1oz. distilled water in a spray bottle
Liquid Soap - add 35-45 drops per 8oz. unscented liquid soap for hands or body
Shampoos and Conditioners - add 10-15 drops per 1oz. of product
Diffuser - add oil directly to an electric diffuser, warmer, or lamp ring
Room Mist - add 17-20 drops per 1oz. distilled water in a spray bottle
Mist your linens with the room mist or place 4-5 drops on a cotton ball and put in your dresser drawers or under the seat of your car.

When Using a Diffuser for Anxiety

Many people enjoy diffusing lavender, bergamot, chamomile, or frankincense in the evening to help create a calm and relaxing environment. Start with only a few drops and follow the instructions that come with your diffuser.

Do Not Forget the Carrier OILS

When using essential oils for your body, it is important that you NEVER apply them directly to the skin. Directly applying these concentrated oils to the skin may result in burning, irritation, or strong skin reaction. It's always important to mix your essential oils with another oil to help them spread well and absorb into the skin more effectively. These oils are called carrier oils. You can use jojoba, vegetable oils, or any unscented or lightly scented body oils.

OUR FAVORITE PICK!!! Mountain Rose Herbs offers a full variety of organic, clean, carrier oils for your essential oil needs. CLICK HERE

And if you love shopping on Amazon, you'll find some great options there, also - Pure Carrier Oils for Essential Oils - DIY Skin Care Set with Hair Oils Skin Oils for Body Care Moisturizers for Face and Body plus Nail Care - Anti Aging Skin Care DIY Beauty Products Carrier Oil Set

Essential Oils and Pets

Some essential oils can be harmful to cats, birds, and dogs. Tea tree oil, eucalyptus, peppermint, cinnamon, and citrus oils may be dangerous to certain pets, especially when diffused in small spaces. If you have pets, always research an oil before using it and consult your veterinarian if you have concerns.

A Word of Caution:

When using essential oils, be sure to read directions before using. Some oils may cause skin irritation, should this happen, diffuse with vegetable or jojoba oil and rub in. Essential oils are not for internal use. So don't ingest them! Do not use them on infants. Keep away from eyes. If you are currently being treated for a medical condition, please contact your doctor before using. Also, some essential oils are toxic to birds, always do your research before using essential oils in your diffuser if you have pets.

Using Aromatherapy as Part of a Larger Anxiety Recovery Plan

Aromatherapy can be helpful for relaxation, but it tends to work best when it is part of a broader approach to managing anxiety. Many people find the most improvement when they combine calming tools like essential oils with practical recovery strategies such as lifestyle changes, education, and emotional understanding.

For example, learning how anxiety works in the body can reduce fear of symptoms and help you respond more calmly. You can read more about this in the Anxiety Help section.

If your anxiety includes physical symptoms like dizziness, unreality, or feeling detached, you may also find this helpful: Understanding Depersonalization and Anxiety.

For a structured approach to recovery, you can explore the step-by-step guide here: Guided Recovery Steps.

🌿 Share the Hope

If this article encouraged you, please consider sharing it with a friend, family member, or anyone who may be struggling today. Sometimes a single article can be the reminder someone needs that they are not alone.

Guided Steps to Recovery

Recommended Aromatherapy Products

Whether you're just getting started or looking to expand your aromatherapy collection, these carefully selected books, essential oils, diffusers, and accessories are among the most popular choices. They can help you create a relaxing environment and get the most from your aromatherapy experience.

Starter Kits
Essential Oil Starter Set
Organic Essential Oil Collection
Diffusers
Ultrasonic Essential Oil Diffuser
Wood Grain Aromatherapy Diffuser
Carrier Oils
Jojoba Oil
Fractionated Coconut Oil
Books
The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy
Emotional Healing with Essential Oils

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