Essential Oils and Emotions: Anxiety

Scent can have a powerful effect on our emotions. Out of all five senses, our sense of smell is the only one directly linked to the limbic system in the brain, our emotional control center. What this means is that scent can impact not just emotion, but our body's physical response to it.

When we inhale the fragrance of an essential oil, the odor molecules travel up the nose where they’re registered by the nerves of the olfactory membranes in the nose lining. The odor molecules stimulate this lining of nerve cells and trigger electrical impulses to the olfactory bulb in the brain. The olfactory bulb then transmits the impulses to the amygdala - where emotional memories are stored - and to other parts of the limbic system of the brain.

Because the limbic system is directly connected to those parts of the brain that control heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, memory, stress levels, and hormone balance, therapeutic grade essential oils can have profound physiological and psychological effect on our physical and emotional well-being. Olfactory responses to odors induce the brain to stimulate the release of hormones and neurochemicals that in turn alter the body’s physiology and behavior.

 

Essential Oil Desk Reference, 4th Edition

Emotion: Anxiety

The Essential Oils Desk Reference v5 highlights specific oils that can encourage a release of the emotion; anxiety. It's important to remember that just because there are several oils listed, it doesn't mean you have to use each one. Use what you have on-hand from the starter kit, or if you see the same essential oil recommended for different emotions you're juggling, maybe make the investment to order that oil this month.

As you experiment with frequent diffusing, inhaling or topical application, you'll begin to see which one ignites the best response in your body. Everyone is different!

Singles: Orange, Roman Chamomile, Ylang Ylang, Lavender, Frankincense

Blends: Valor, Hope, Peace & Calming, Joy, Present Time, The Gift, Surrender, Believe

The oils bolded/hyperlinked are all included in the Premium Starter Kit. This kit is what I truly recommend for anyone looking to begin their journey with essential oils. It includes 11 oils and the home diffuser, so you are fully equipped to jump right in.

I am linking up to The Pretty Oil, where they have an in-depth look at these essential oils and their uses.

Any questions on YL essential oils or my unique anxiety journey:
email lee.erikad@gmail.com