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Why essential oils and aromatherapy is good for anxiety

Wavy massage

Why essential oils and aromatherapy is good for anxiety

First things first please remember the following information when using essential oils: 

  • Never take essential oils internally 
  • Never apply undiluted oils to the skin
  • Keep away from eyes as they burn! (from personal experience – its not pleasant) 
  • Always buy oils from a reputable supplier
  • If you are not sure please consult a professional 
  • If you use diffusers that are water based with essential oils please ensure you clean them regularly.  

People have been using essential oils for thousands of years. in fact – dating back to ancient Egyptians 4500 BC. The Egyptians used balms, oils and plants to make embalming and mummifications.  Since then, people have recognised the properties of essential oils, and realised that certain oils can have positive effects on peoples health and mental state. 

Currently 1 in 6 people will face a mental health issue such as depression or anxiety (Mental Health Facts and Statistics, 2020). This includes children as well. Sometimes people are looking for an alterative to medication, I know from past experience that medication is a last resort. So, aromatherapy may just be the option to turn to. It can help children feel more calmer, more focused and less anxious. 

I have also found a  bracelet on amazon, which can help children and adults wear their essential oils too – plus its pretty and no-one needs to know anything other than it being a bracelet. 

busy businesswoman working home office

How much should I use?

Children are very sensitive, and only require a small amount. In adults this can be increased. 

Massage
Diffuser / Vapouriser
Bath
Creams
Babies up to 3yrs 1 drop of essential oils per 10ml of a base oil (almond, grapeseed, sunflower)
2 drops for 4-7 years
3 drops 7+
Use up to 4 drops
In 10 ml you can use 1 drop for babies up to 3,
2 drops for 4-7 years
3 drops for 7+
Add 1 drop in a bath for babies up to 3 years old,
use 2-3 drops of 4-7 years old
3-4 drop for 7+

What Essential Oils can I use?

For Anxiety: I have found lavender to be helpful. Other aromatherapists recommend Bergamot, Madarin, or Ylang Ylang which can either be massaged in or placed in a bath. 

For a better nights sleep: Lavandar, Ylang Ylang, chamomile, Bergamot Sandalwood, Cedarwood, Marjoram, Clary Sage. 

Drops of these can be added to a tissue and placed inside a pillow case. 

For Hyperactivity or ADHD: Peppermint, Mandarin, Sandalwood, Cedarwood. 

These can be added to a bath or a diffuser, or also massaged in. 

For children with Period Cramps: Cinnamon, Lavender, a blend of clove, cinnamon, rose and lavender. 

These work particularly well when massaged into the lower abdomen. 

References 

Mental health facts and statistics. (2020, June). Mind. Retrieved January 10, 2023, from https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/statistics-and-facts-about-mental-health/how-common-are-mental-health-problems/