Essential oils - what are they ? how do they help us emotionally?

Essential oils are the aromatic (smelling) compounds in plants. They exist in the leaves, stems, roots, bark, and flowers of plants. In nature, essential oils help protect the plant from predators and aid in the pollination process.

 

How do essential oils affect emotions?

When we smell an essential oil, we have what’s called an olfactory response. The essential oil travels through the olfactory system and reaches the limbic part of the brain. The limbic area of the brain is thought to be one of the oldest parts of the brain and has a direct connection with emotions and memory. Therefore, using an essential oil that is calming and relaxing can have very positive benefits when dealing with anxiety and depression.

Essential oils are a powerful tool for enhancing overall wellness. By incorporating them into your daily routine you can harness their therapeutic benefits to support mental health. Some examples:

• Lavender and chamomile can promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality.

• Citrus based oils like wild orange or bergamot have uplifting qualities that boost moods and promote positivity.

• Frankincense has been used for centuries as it helps to quieten the mind and promote feelings of peace and relaxation. A natural anti-depressant.

• Ylang ylang is a floral-scented oil with a sedative effect which can help to reduce feelings of stress.

How can we use essential Oils?

Aromatic use:

Aromatic use is simply smelling the essential oils. You can do this by using the oils in some water in a diffuser (note never burn your oils with a tea light). This is the best method when using essential oils for emotional support.

Topical use:

Topical use is diluting the oils in a carrier oil like coconut oil or an unscented lotion and applying them to the skin- like a perfume or during a massage etc.