Anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues are banes to live with. Most of us who deal with mental health issues are on a cocktail of medications that can take us in all sorts of directions mentally and physically before they ever level out, if they ever level out. All too often, we are constantly changing medications and it's just a chemical merry-go-round. We all know chemicals ultimately do more harm than good but we are so desperate to feel better and have a "normal" quality of life that we suck it up and pop our prescriptions.
What many of us don't know is that there are some holistic methods that can help us feel somewhat better. These methods won't cure us of our ills, but if used in certain methods, they can calm us, and relax us enough to maybe, just maybe, have a moment of peace without an additional pill. I will be researching some of these methods over the next several weeks. One of these methods is Essential Oils.
Essential oils are natural extracts from flower, roots, bark, or leaves of plants. You can use Aromatherapy through diffusers, a few drops in your bath or on your pillow, or in a humidifier or vaporizer. Essential oils can also be applied topically when combined with a carrier oil or lotion. How relaxing would it be to get a nice massage? On top of that, the oils are able to absorb into your skin and you are also getting the aromatherapy as well from the scents being released. Essential oils can be added as scents into candles and body scrubs. You can really let your imaginations soar when it comes to ways to use essential oils. I will have a base for a sugar scrub that any of these essential oils can be added too at the bottom of my blog.
Lavender is the most used essential oil today. It is known for reducing anxiety and stress. It is also very known for its calming effects. Are you having trouble falling asleep? Staying asleep? Lavender may be the essential oil you will want to check out. A few drops of lavender oil on your pillow should help you enjoy sweet dreams faster and longer.
Chamomile has many uses. I enjoy a cup of chamomile tea at night to help me relax and fall asleep. Diffusing chamomile essential oil in your home at night is also a great way to fall asleep. Chamomile, whether in tea, tincture or essential oil form, is one the best medicinal herbs for fighting stress and promoting relaxation, according to research from Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine and Pharmacognosy Review. Aromatherapy using chamomile essential oils is often recommended as a natural remedy for anxiety and general depression.
Jasmine is also used for overcoming stress and anxiety. It is also said to be useful for inhancing the libido. Now I know that mental health issues can wreak havoc on one's libido. Jasmine oil has been known as a natural aphrodisiac because of it's "seductive" scent. Jasmine can also reduce pms symptoms. I have heard of jasmine teas. As an essential oil, jasmine can be used without a carrier oil and applied directly to the skin. It can also be used in your favorite method of aromatherapy.
Ylang Ylang is another aphrodisiac and antidpressant. It's also known to help with high blood pressure. This natural mood stabilizer is one of the key ingredients used in Chanel No.5. Ylang ylang can be diffused throughout your home to help you feel refreshed and energized, it can be applied to your skin to wake you up, or you can even mix some up with some organic coconut oil and apply it to your hair for an increased shine.
These were my favorites of the oils I found. During my research I also found that there are many places online to purchase essential oils. I don't have any recommendations as I have not made any purchases through any online sellers. If you can find someone local who sells essential oils and is knowledgeable, you will probably have the best experience obtaining the perfect product for you. Please remember if you are on medication, always remember to check with your doctor first before trying essential oils. Never ingest any essential oils or apply undiluted essential oils to the skin without proper training or medical supervision. This blog is for fun and I am not a doctor or professional.
Sugar Scrub Base
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup organic coconut oil
3-6 drops of your favorite essential oil
Mix sugar and coconut oil together. Add essential oil. Store in a decorative jar with tight lid. It's that easy. You can make smaller batches. There are many diy sugar scrubs online to take inspiration from. Making scrubs, candles, and other products can also be very inexpensive, satisfying, and soothing to depression and anxieties. Feel free to share any recipes that you enjoy using essential oils in the comments below!
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