Self care ideas
top 5 essential oils for stress reduction: a beginner's guide
By Eleanor Vance
Published: 19 May 2025
“Within you, there is a stillness and a sanctuary to which you can retreat at any time and be yourself.” – Hermann Hesse
Top 5 Essential Oils for Stress Reduction: A Beginner's Guide
Stress – ugh, who needs it? I know, I know, easier said than done to just banish it from our lives. I was talking to my sister, Sarah, the other day, and she was telling me about how overwhelmed she's been juggling work, the kids' school activities, and trying to squeeze in some 'me time.' Sound familiar? Finding moments of calm can feel impossible sometimes. But that's where essential oils come in! For years, I was skeptical...until I tried them. Now? A total convert!
Why Essential Oils? Honestly, I Was a Doubter, Too.
Okay, so I get it if you're rolling your eyes. Trust me, I used to be that person. I thought essential oils were some kind of new-agey fad. But then I started doing some reading, and I was surprised to learn just how long people have been using them – like, centuries! The basic idea is that these oils, extracted from plants, have properties that can affect our mood and well-being. They interact with our limbic system, the part of the brain that controls emotions, behaviors, and even our sense of smell (which is, like, super powerful, right?).
I remember one particularly stressful week at work last fall, where I felt like I was constantly on the verge of a panic attack. That is when a colleague, Emily, suggested trying lavender oil. I laughed it off at first, then I remembered that day when I was so stressed that I made a typo in an email to the CEO – a typo that changed the meaning entirely, hahaha! It was so embarassing. After I had time to calm down, I thought, what did I have to lose?
1. Lavender: The Queen of Calm
Lavender is practically synonymous with relaxation. It's my go-to oil when I'm feeling anxious or just need to unwind after a long day. Its aroma is floral, sweet, and oh-so-soothing. Did you know, that it's also known for its soothing properties on burns, I remember once when I was a kid, I tripped on the stairs and fell, scraping my knee, and my mom put Lavender oil on the wound. That was the fastest pain relive ever.
- How to use it: Diffuse a few drops in your bedroom before bed, add it to a warm bath, or even put a drop or two on your pillow. I sometimes rub a diluted drop on my temples when I have a headache. Warning: Make sure you buy pure Lavender oil! I purchased from a brand called 'Plant Therapy' once and I really loved it. If you are unsure of the purity, I suggest asking for help from a certified aromatherapist.
2. Chamomile: More Than Just a Tea
When I hear the word 'Chamomile' I think of 'Tea'. Similar to Lavender, Chamomile essential oil is known for promoting a sense of calm. There are different types of chamomile (Roman and German), but both have relaxing properties. Roman chamomile is often preferred for its sweeter, fruitier scent.
- How to use it: Add a few drops to a carrier oil (like jojoba or almond oil) and use it for a relaxing massage. You can also diffuse it with lavender for an extra calming effect. I usually do a test patch on my skin, to make sure I am not allergic to it.
3. Frankincense: Ancient Wisdom in a Bottle
Frankincense has been used for centuries in spiritual practices and meditation. Its grounding, earthy aroma can help to reduce stress and promote a sense of inner peace. I find it particularly helpful when I'm feeling scattered or overwhelmed. My yoga instructor, Maya, always uses frankincense during our restorative yoga sessions. I had a discussion with her, once, about what type to use and she said that 'Boswellia sacra' from Oman is considered the highest quality frankincense.
- How to use it: Diffuse it during meditation or yoga, or apply diluted to your pulse points. I sometimes add a drop to my moisturizer for its skin-soothing benefits. If your looking for brands, I highly suggest you check 'doTERRA' and 'Young Living'.
4. Bergamot: Sunshine in a Scent
Bergamot is a citrus oil, but unlike other citrus oils that can be energizing, bergamot has a unique ability to uplift your mood while also calming your nerves. Its scent is bright, slightly floral, and very uplifting. Last summer when I visited 'The Farm at San Benito' – a wellness retreat in the Philippines, I spoke to a well-being instructor who recommended Bergamot as an essential oil. I had a lovely discussion with her about how she uses the oil in her yoga practices.
- How to use it: Diffuse it in your home or office, or add a few drops to a diffuser necklace. Be careful when applying bergamot topically, as it can make your skin more sensitive to the sun (it’s phototoxic). Dilution is key, and avoid sun exposure for at least 12 hours after application. I found one from 'Edens Garden' and it was the purest I have ever used. Highly recommend!
5. Ylang-Ylang: Exotic and Relaxing
Ylang-ylang (pronounced ee-lang ee-lang) is an exotic floral scent that can help to ease tension and promote a sense of well-being. It's often used in aromatherapy for its aphrodisiac properties, but it's also great for reducing stress and anxiety. A few years back I met a herbalist, Jean, in Bali who mentioned she uses Ylang-Ylang and she has always expressed how much she loves the oil. The story was very endearing to me!
- How to use it: Add a few drops to a warm bath, diffuse it in your bedroom, or mix it with a carrier oil for a sensual massage. A little goes a long way with ylang-ylang, as its scent can be quite strong. I like to add it to lotion or body cream I use.
Important Considerations Before You Start: Safety First!
Okay, so you're ready to dive into the world of essential oils, right? Awesome! But before you go slathering them all over yourself, there are a few safety precautions you need to know:
- Dilution is Key: Essential oils are super concentrated, so you should never apply them directly to your skin without diluting them in a carrier oil (like jojoba, almond, or coconut oil). A good rule of thumb is to use a 1-3% dilution for adults.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Some essential oils are not safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so always check with your doctor or a qualified aromatherapist before using them.
- Pets: Be careful when using essential oils around pets, as some oils can be toxic to them. Always keep essential oils out of reach of children and pets.
- Quality Matters: Not all essential oils are created equal. Look for pure, therapeutic-grade oils from a reputable source. I typically do a lot of research before I purchase!
Finding What Works for You
The best way to find the essential oils that work for you is to experiment and see what scents you're drawn to. Everyone's different, so what works for me might not work for you. Don't be afraid to try different oils and blends until you find what makes you feel calm, relaxed, and happy! And don't get discouraged if it takes a little while to find your perfect match! Also, consider consulting a certified aromatherapist. They can provide personalized recommendations and guidance.
So, what does this mean for you? I think it is important to remember to take a break from life when you feel like it is getting on top of you. Life is difficult to manage sometimes. Remember, everyone is on their own journey. What is something that helps you remain calm and grounded?
Incorporating essential oils into my daily life has been such a game-changer for managing stress. It's not a magic bullet (wish it were!), but it's a wonderful tool to have in your self-care toolkit. So, go ahead, experiment, find what works for you, and create your own little sanctuary of calm. You deserve it!
