Essential Oils for Emotional Well Being

There is a strong and important connection between emotional and physical health. Emotional stress, whether sudden or prolonged can have profound effects upon the body. Grief, depression and anxiety each take their toll on the immune system and can cause a range of illnesses from digestive problems to sleep disorders. Aromatherapy has many practical healing advantages and works in several different ways, but perhaps one of the most fascinating in the relationship that it has with emotional wellbeing.

The Nose Knows

When you breathe in through your nostrils, the air enters your nasal cavity and travels along the roof of your mouth. The inside of your nose is lined with a wet, thin layer of skin. This tissue warms up the air on its way in and moistens it. On the inside of your nose are tiny hairs that catch dust and other things that would be harmful if they were breathed in.

Sometimes things get caught in them that your nose doesn't want, so you sneeze to get rid of them. Behind the nasal cavity are cells that kill any nasty germs that you might have breathed in.

Up at the top of your nasal cavity is another bunch of tiny hairs. Their job is to tell the difference between different smells. Your nose is so powerful that it can smell up to 10,000 different scents. When you breathe in, these hairs send signals to your brain. It's then your brain's job to figure out what you smell.

It is a fact that aromas have a direct impact on the emotions, through the olfactory system. Certain aromas can stimulate the hypothalamus - the part of the brain that controls the endocrine system and many body functions. The hypothalamus can then activate the pituitary gland, which produces hormones that can affect both the physical body and the emotions. In addition to their many other functions, Hormones influence emotions and behaviour. This makes aromatherapy a wonderful means for emotional healing and rebalancing moods.

Essential Oils for Emotions

Lifting Depression

Geranium and ylang ylang are both beneficial for depression. Geranium is also believed to be able to elevate depressive moods. It removes negative feelings and replaces them with an uplifted mood and feeling of wellbeing. Ylang ylang helps to balance and calm emotional stress.

Relaxation and Stress Relief

A small amount of clary sage or lavender can help you unwind at the end of a stressful day. Lavender is can help you sleep and is excellent for insomniacs. Clary sage good if you are feeling emotionally drained or nervous.

Mental Boost

If you're tired and lack concentration, you may need a mental pick-me-up. Eucalyptus, peppermint and rosemary are all mentally stimulating oils. Each of these oils will revitalise your mind and help you to overcome bouts of fatigue and restlessness. Eucalyptus and peppermint are revitalising and uplifting. Rosemary can help you concentrate and focus your attention.

Methods for Using Essential Oils

Diffuser of Vaporiser

This is the most popular method used to scent a room with essential oils. Fill a dish with water and add 4-7 drops of essential oil. Heat with the candle but don't let all the water evaporate.

Personal Use

If you want an aromatherapy treatment that it personal and portable, simply add a few drops of your favourite oil to a handkerchief and you have a discreet aromatherapy that you can take to work or outdoors with you.