14. Angelica
Angelica, also known as wild celery, grows just about everywhere in the Northern Hemisphere, even in Iceland and Lapland and Greenland.
A study involving three separate mouse tests found that angelica essential oil works with comparable effectiveness to the anti-anxiety drug diazepam. However, angelica took the cake when it came to safety since it does not have the grocery list of side effects of its pharmaceutical counterpart.
“Thus, these findings indicate that angelica essential oil, as does diazepam, exhibits an anxiolytic-like effect. Further studies will be required to assess the generality of the present findings to other species and behavioural paradigms,” concluded the researchers (27).
15. Sandalwood
According to Healthline, “…research suggests that sandalwood may help: increase alertness, manage anxiety, support wound healing, guard against skin cancer, and fight bacteria.”(28)
Randomized controlled trials from four countries found that both the topical application of sandalwood essential oil diluted in sweet almond oil and the inhalation of the oil reduced anxiety in patients receiving palliative care (29).
How To Enjoy Aromatherapy
Essential oils are highly concentrated and should not be used directly near the eyes. Some oils may also cause irritation if applied directly to the skin.
You can dilute a few drops of essential oil with a spoonful of coconut oil to use them topically, or inhale them by using a diffuser.
If you still want more, other useful essential oils for anxiety include:
- Lime
- Marjoram
- Palmarosa
- Peppermint
- Jasmine
- Cedarwood
- Rosewood
- Spruce
- Frankincense
- Grapefruit
Feel free to combine them with the oils mentioned above for an extra-soothing mix.
For other ways to use essential oils for anxiety, look no further.
1. Relaxing Bath Salts
The perfect way to calm down after an emotional day.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Epsom salt
- 1 cup kosher salt
- ½ cup baking soda
- 10 drops Clary sage (Salvia sclarea) essential oil
- 10 drops Ylang ylang (Cananga odorata var. genuina) essential oil
Instructions:
- Combine salts and soda in a jar with a lid.
- Stir in essential oils & shake to promote even coating.
- Store in cool, dark place.
- Use about ¼ to ½ cup per bath.
2. Anti-Stress Mist
The on-the-go solution to staying grounded.
Ingredients:
- 5 drops of Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) oil
- 3 drops of Ylang ylang (Cananga odorata var. genuina) oil
- 2 drops of Bergamot (Citrus aurantium var. bergamia) oil
- 4 oz of purified water
Instructions:
- In a 4 ounces spray bottle, carefully add all of the essential oils.
- Top off the bottle with purified water and tighten the cap.
- Mix well and store in a cool, dark, place.
- To use, shake and spray away from your face. Flick your wrist in a forward motion to bring the mist closer to your nose.
If you’re struggling with anxiety or depression and feel overwhelmed, talk to your doctor, naturopath or mental health provider to find the best strategy and anxiety remedies to help you get back to your regular self. Aromatherapy and essential oils for anxiety are among the many tools that can help you recover.