Essential oils are distillations of plants that have plant-specific beneficial properties. Using the calming essential oils can help your brain by banishing stress. Some of the most popular include lavender, sage, sandalwood, frankincense, and chamomile. You can light scented candles, place fragrant potpourri throughout your home, or put a few drops of scented oil in your bathwater or on your pillow. Floral scents tend to work best, because food scents can make you hungry. Avoid tart or biting fragrances, such as lemon, because they may have the opposite effect, perking you up instead of calming you down. You may have to experiment until you find the scent that is right for you.
Don’t use essential oils under the following conditions without the consultation of a qualified practitioner:
- If you are pregnant
- If you have allergies
- If you are receiving medical or psychiatric treatment
- If you are taking homeopathic remedies
- If you have any chronic or serious health problems, such as a heart condition
However, aromatherapy is safe to use at home for minor or short term problems, such as mild depression or tension, so long as you follow safety guidelines:
- Do not take essential oils internally or put them in your eyes.
- Do not use essential oils to treat young children.
- Keep all oils away from children.
- Do not apply undiluted oils directly to the skin.