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Essential Oils Against Anxiety

Anxiety is a difficult mental state that affects and aggravates a man’s life. In situations when due to objective life circumstances or hypersensitivity of the nervous system, we have to fight anxiety on a daily basis. Thus, it is of great importance that we also have a natural option available such as essential oils.

In a study from 2014, conducted by the American College of Healthcare Sciences, 58 patients in need of intensive care received hand massages once a day with a mixture of essential oils of 1.5% solution with sweet almond oil. The blend of essential oils consisted of equal amounts of bergamot, incense and lavender oils. All patients who received such aromatherapy confirmed that their pain and depression were significantly reduced.

With that in mind, if you are looking for a natural way to deal with anxiety without risking side effects, essential oils are definitely worth considering.

Best Essential Oils Against Anxiety

Oils Against Anxiety

1. Rose 

There are a lot of benefits of rose essential oil, it’s dealing with emotional problems, has the ability to reduce anxiety and depression, helps with panic attacks, grief and shock.

In a study on pregnant women first published in the Iranian Red Crescent Medical Journal, one group of women received 10-minute inhalations and foot massages with rose oil, while another group received 10 minutes of foot massages with warm water.

The results showed that “aromatherapy and foot massage with rose essential oils reduces anxiety in the active phase in depressed women.”

2. Vetiver 

Vetiver oil has down-to-earth and calming energy, which calms and stabilizes. It is a kind of tonic for the nervous system, reduces anxiety and hypersensitivity and also helps with panic attacks and shocks.

A study from Natural Product Research that looked at behaviors similar to anxiety in mice concluded that vetiver oil may be helpful in reducing anxiety symptoms, although more research is needed to confirm this.

3. Chamomile 

Chamomile essential oil has a calming and relaxing scent, thus it reduces anxiety and worry.

A study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine on the activity of antidepressants found in chamomile concluded that this essential oil “may contribute to a clinically significant antidepressant activity that is shown in contrast to the observed anxiolytic activities.”

Another study published in the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health pointed out that chamomile capsules reduce anxiety symptoms.

4. Incense

Incense is great for treating depression because it contributes to relaxation and mental grounding.
In aromatherapy, it helps to go deeper into relaxation and calm the mind.
Together with bergamot and lavender oil in a 1:1 ratio when massaging hands, incense has positive effects on pain and depression in patients with incurable cancer, according to studies at Keimyung University in Korea.

5. Lavender

It strengthens the nervous system and helps to cope with disturbed inner peace, sleep, rest, irritability, panic attacks, nervous stomach and general nervousness.

“The Handbook of Essential Oils: Science, Technology, and Applications, Second Edition” says that there have been many clinical trials involving inhalation of lavender oil which indicate that it brings less stress and anxiety.

Further research demonstrates the ability of lavender to reduce anxiety in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery and in people going to a dentist.

6. Ylang-ylang

This popular essential oil can cure anxiety due to its calming and uplifting effects. Ylang-ylang helps to encourage cheerfulness, courage, optimism and reduces fear. It can reduce heart anxiety and tremors and is a strong sedative that helps with insomnia.

In a 2006 study conducted by Geochang Provincial College in Korea, ylang-ylang oil was given once a day for four weeks. The therapy reduced the “psychological stress response and cortisol levels, as well as blood pressure in clients with essential hypertension”.

Be careful when using ylang-ylang as it can irritate the skin and avoid using it if your blood pressure is low.

7. Bergamot

Bergamot oil has a soothing effect and is a good remedy for depression, however, it can also help with insomnia because it leads to relaxation and reduces anxiety.

An interesting study from 2011 hypothesizes that applying a mixture of essential oils, which includes bergamot, helps people who are struggling with depression and anxiety. The mixture consists of lavender and bergamot essential oils.

Bergamot is generally harmless but it is photosensitive, which means that it can increase the risk of bites and burns.

8. Melissa

Melissa is an amazing natural remedy for fighting mental problems, depression, anxiety, fear, tension and other disorders caused by stress.

German scientists have shown that Melissa essential oil acts on the part of the brain that controls the autonomic nervous system, thus protecting it from negative external influences.

 

Aromatherapy against anxiety is a great choice if you want to fight this problem in a natural way.

 

Caution!

Do not use if you are sensitive or allergic to any of the ingredients of these herbs. Use with caution and if any side effects occur, consult a doctor immediately.

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Best Essential Oils for Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin is not a disease, it just requires special care. Such kind of skin needs adequate and more thorough attention. If you make a mistake somewhere and don’t treat it properly, you will immediately notice it – your skin will warn you. It is important to learn what your skin really needs.

It can appear anywhere on the body and is most pronounced on the face.

Sensitive skin requires extra care that would strengthen its defensive power, alleviate inflammation and prevent the occurrence of itching and redness.

A special group of plants that has this effect and acts to suppress redness and inflammation of the skin are the azulene plants. This group includes plants that contain aromatic hydrocarbons, better known as azulenes. Azulene has anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic and deodorizing effects. The highest concentration of azulene can be found in plants such as chamomile and yarrow, so if you have sensitive skin, it is best to include preparations made from these plants in your daily care.

Most useful herbs and oils to use for sensitive skin

Oils for Sensitive Skin

German Chamomile

The most famous plant that is widely known for its ability to alleviate redness, inflammation and protection from external influences. It is used to treat eczema, inflammatory skin processes and burns. Chamomile is harmless and cannot be overdosed.

Chamomile contains several active ingredients and the most important ones from which its healing effect comes are azulene and bisabolol.

Azulene

It comes from the essential oil of chamomile obtained by distillation of flowers where the intense blue-colored azulene stands out. This is one of the main ingredients of sensitive skin prone to redness masks. So, if you are having this problem, look for this ingredient in their composition.

Bisabolol

It is also a chamomile essential oil component. It is very beneficial because it has no allergens and irritating properties on the skin. Bisabolol is an extremely high-quality ingredient that has an anti-inflammatory effect. It is a component in many children’s products, face care cream and you can often find it in natural cosmetics, so when buying products for sensitive skin, be sure to find it on the list of raw materials.

Lavender

Several studies have shown the benefits of Lavender on the skin. It has pronounced antimicrobial properties and therefore helps in the treatment of various skin diseases, such as eczema, blisters, seals, redness.

Lavender is an extremely medicinal plant that improves circulation which is very important for supplying the skin cells with oxygen. It gives our face a more beautiful and healthier look. If used in the form of oil, lavender has the power to penetrate deep into the skin very quickly, which improves its efficiency. Therefore, you will notice the results very quickly.

The greatest power of lavender lies in an ingredient called linalool. In terms of composition, it is natural alcohol, which, together with other medicinal components of lavender helps for its fast absorption. Linalool is also excellent to use in the production of perfumes, precisely because of its relaxing scent. In addition to linalool, lavender also contains linalyl acetate, tannins, flavonoids, phytosterols and coumarins.

It is important to mention that lavender is an allergen but despite that, its use rarely causes allergic reactions on the skin. Moreover, lavender very quickly and effectively removes other allergic reactions. However, we advise that before using Lavender oil or any other preparation that contains this plant, still to apply on a small part of the skin in case you have an allergic reaction. If no occurs, feel free to enjoy all charms of this amazing plant.

Yarrow

The Latin name of this plant, Achillea millefolium, comes from Achilles, who healed the wound of Telephus with this plant. It is very rich in active ingredients such as achilles, an essential oil with azulene, essential fatty acids, phytosterols, phosphates, as well as salicylic, formic and acetic acid.
This herb has an antiseptic effect on the skin, suppresses inflammation and redness and shrinks enlarged pores. It is good to use for shampoos and baths but its main application is in preparation for suppressing irritations and redness. Thus, Yarrow is one of the most desirable raw materials if you’re looking to take care of your sensitive skin.

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Aromatherapy as an analgesic and how to fight headaches

A headache can get you tough when you least expect it and turn the easiest tasks into a painful endeavor. Severe piercing on one or both sides, sensitivity to light, nausea and weakness are some of the consequences of a strong headache that would make us just lie in bed. Migraines and headaches are beginning to torment more and more people, completely blocking normal everyday life.
Sara Crystal, a neurologist and migraine specialist, claims that most headaches are the result of stress, changes in biorhythm, hormonal imbalance and excess caffeine. In addition, a diet rich in chocolate, cheese, nitrates and additives is also a trigger for pain.
“The causes of migraines are often genetic. Every person has their own trigger. That’s why there is no universal solution for migraines.” she stated.

Common causes of headaches:

stress
fatigue
lack of sleep
alcohol abuse
some drugs
famine
allergy
head injuries
dental diseases
neurological diseases

Essential oils can help you relieve your headache and reduce the need for analgesics.
Some of these oils will help keep you focused and concentrated if you plan to remain awake, while others – with the removal of a headache – will make you sleepy.

There are lots of oils that are good for fighting a headache and here are some of the most effective ones.

Top 5 Essential Oils for Headaches

1. Peppermint Oil

peppermint oil

If you suffer from headaches, valuable drops of peppermint oil will alleviate your problems. Rub a few drops of oil on your temples and leave for between 15 and 30 minutes. The anti-inflammatory effect of the mint will relieve your pain.

2. Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil contains significant amounts of 1,8-cineole oxide. This compound is anti-inflammatory and promotes nasal mucosa cleansing. Thanks to this compound, eucalyptus oil has the strongest effect on headaches caused by sinusitis.

3. Sandalwood Oil

Sandalwood calms and relaxes the central nervous system and is optimal for headaches caused by mental tension, agitation and exhaustion. It gives inner strength, which clears the mind and brings serenity. Use it sparingly, as sandalwood is on the list of endangered plants.

4. Roman Chamomile Oil

chamomile oil for headache

Chamomile is full of esters and provides anti-inflammatory and sedative effects. It is highly recommended for very sensitive people who have a “short temper”.
This oil will help you accept the constraints and leave the expectations too high. It has a calming effect, so it is most useful against headache in the evening and at night.

5. Grapefruit Oil

grapefruit oil for headache

Grapefruit oil enjoys a reputation for diuretics and cleansers. It has proven effective in headaches caused by frustration, irritation and guilt. It eliminates pain by clearing the mind and reducing the need to quickly satisfy emotions.

How to use these oils?

The most popular technique for applying headache oil is to massage the temples, forehead and possibly the back of the neck with some of the oils mentioned above or with the oil mixture.

In addition, you can smell a piece of cotton wool on which you have applied oil or mixture, spray selected oils from the sprayer around the room you are in or apply a few drops of oil to your pillow.

We also recommend a scented bath, but keep in mind that after bathing in warm water, you can be very sleepy, so warm baths should be avoided if you want to stay awake for a long time.

Aromatherapy can help you with less frequent, milder headaches but it will not cure the underlying causes of frequent, chronic or severe headaches. If you suffer from these disorders, consult your doctor.

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Benefits and usage of the amazing Chamomile oil

 

Chamomile Essential Oil has been used for medical purposes since the time of ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. For more than 1000 years it helps people worldwide with various problems and it is beneficial in mood enhancement, muscle cramps, healing of skin lesions and treating mild infections. There are two types of chamomile oil – one is made from German flowers and the other one from Roman chamomile flowers.

German chamomile is called Matricaria chamomilla and Roman is known as Anthemis nobilis.

Both oils have similar benefits and effects and are among the best ways to improve the overall health condition.

Roman chamomile due to alpha and beta pinene has a stronger calming effect.

German chamomile is a potent anti-inflammatory agent, thanks to azulene, which is credited with the recognizable blue color of the oil.

Here are some of the most important benefits of Chamomile essential oil:

  • Handles depression and anxiety

Chamomile oil is effective against depression and anxiety, similar to Lavender oil. It effectively raises mood, calms tension and agitation, and alleviates the effects of stress. Since the oil is soothing, it’s great for a tighter and crisper dream, so you could use it in the evenings, before going to bed.

  • Destroys germs and fungi

This wonderful oil has strong antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. It protects wounds, dangers and scarring from bacterial and fungal infections. In the case of developed infections, they are alleviated and treated.

It is also effective on animals, especially cats and dogs, as it destroys mites. For application on animals, rub a few drops of oil in the hair and behind the ears.

  •  Improves digestion

Chamomile essential oil improves digestion as it stimulates the secretion of gastric juices.

It has a beneficial effect on the liver, enhancing its ability to detoxify the organism.

The role of this amazing oil in the digestion is further emphasized by reducing the generation of gasses in the intestines and helping with the feeling of bloating.

  • Heals inflammation and cleanses the bloodstream

The oil has amazing effects in treating inflammation, especially with the digestive and urinary tract issues.

German chamomile is more successful in treating these diseases.

It is also excellent in treating rheumatism and arthritis.

As a diuretic, it purifies the urinary system and the kidneys as it stimulates increased urination.

It helps the bloodstream and cleans blood from toxins and excess uric acid.

It is effective for lowering blood pressure and swelling of blood vessels.

  • Helps with flu and colds

Chamomile oil is an effective natural anti-flu and cold substance.

It causes abundant sweating and thus removes the toxins and pathogens of the disease.

Swelling also refreshes the body and provides relief during elevated temperatures.

  • Relieves pain

As an excellent natural analgesic, the oil alleviates headaches, toothache and muscle and joint pain.

It is effective against neuralgia – it reduces pressure on the ninth cranial nerve and thus reduces pain.

  • Cleans and heals the skin

This healing oil is very popular in cosmetics. It helps in healing scars and removing stains on the skin.

This product exquisitely tones oily skin, removes fatty gloss and cleans acne from toxins and bacteria, and it is effective for eczema, psoriasis, facial redness, dermatitis and other skin problems.

  • Use it as a natural sedative

For this purpose, use the essential oil of the Roman camomile because it has a better effect on the calming of the German chamomile oil.

To experience the benefits of this oil for mental health, it is enough to inhale its scent.

Soak wax with 5-7 drops of oil and breathe in for a few minutes, holding a wad or a scarf close to your mouth and nose.

For calming down with a stronger mental tension, you will also be able to apply oil directly to the skin.

Apply two drops of the essential oil to the middle of the chest and massage it with gentle movements.

Other options for applying this oil are inhalation from a hot water container, a scented lamp or a hot bath. For this application, pour five to ten drops into the water.

Local and oral usage

In the case of muscle or joint pain, as well as burns, sores or acne, apply oil to the problematic spot and massage it.

If you have digestive problems, massage a few drops of oil on the abdominal skin or pour a drop or two into a glass of water and drink it.

You can also apply it as a mouthwash. Add a few drops in a glass of water and rinse your mouth with the liquid. After washing, sprinkle the liquid.

Caution!

Test it on the skin before use!

Although this oil is gentle, we recommend you to test it on the skin in diluted form before concrete use.

You can dilute it with walnut, almond, olive or jojoba oil.

For external application, mix 8-15 drops of chamomile oil with 30 milliliters of carrier oil and apply to the skin.

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Top 3 Essential Oils

Essential oils are very respected in the East and popular on the West, people all over the planet are familiar with their effects and are using them for various occasions. Even if you are a supporter of classic medicine, you cannot deny their effects and it might be good to have some of these amazing oils in your locker, together with other medicine.

We present to you some of the most used and effective oils:

1. Chamomile Oil

This oil has been used for centuries, even the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans knew its benefits. It is most often used in aromatherapy because it has a soothing and relaxing effect. It helps with nervous disorders, irritability, insomnia. It’s also good at preventing the development of stomach ulcers. The oil helps with stomach and bowel disorders such as cramps, inflammation of the colon, stomach ache, excess gastric acid. It causes sweating and therefore doesn’t allow the organism to have a high temperature.

Chamomile oil is one of the best means for treating inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes. Experts recommend it for the treatment of various burns and ulcers. Antioxidants from the chamomile protect the skin from UV rays, it contains levomenol that improves the skin’s structure. It helps with acne, various irritations, rash, and other skin problems. By using this oil, your skin will be softer and brighter.

2. Lavender Oil

This oil is often called ‘medicinal treasure from the bottle’ because of its wide range of applications. That is why you can find it in every home and it is practically used every day, everywhere.
Beneficial properties of lavender were the key to the beginnings of modern aromatherapy and it is often used for perfume, soaps, creams, and lotions making.

Lavender is a Mediterranean plant that has been used as a medicine for insomnia, depression, tension since ancient times. The essential oil made from this plant helps reduce pain, both rheumatic and muscle pain, as well as pain caused by swelling. In addition, it establishes a hormonal balance and relieves inflammation of the bladder. Then, it lowers pressure, disinfects the skin, stimulates circulation.
Lavender is considered to accelerate wounds healing process and reduce cuts, and also reduce stress in different situations. It also fights anxiety.

3. Melissa Oil

Melissa – a plant that returns the joy of life. We have already presented the amazing essential oil made from this plant. It is obtained by distillation from the leaves and stems of the Melissa plant and is very efficient in fighting insomnia, stress, and anxiety. Melissa also supports the brainchild of fighting Alzheimer’s disease and improve memory and concentration. It is also used in the fight against tension, disturbance, and irritability. It reduces headaches and high temperature, relieves menstrual cramps.

All in all, these three multi-beneficial essential oils can do so much for our overall health and make our lives better and easier.

No matter which essential oil you decide to use, make sure you follow the instructions of the experts and use them correctly.

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