DO ESSENTIAL OILS LIVE UP TO THEIR CLAIMS?
WE PROFILE A FEW THAT HAVE RESEARCH TO
SUPPORT THEIR THERAPEUTIC BENEFITS
SCENTS FOR
STRESS
B
otanical therapies have been used
since ancient times, and even now
the healing approach shows no sign
of slowing down. While we have centuries of
tradition and medical notes to look back
on, the use of essential oils has developed
and changed over time in line with further
research. Taking note from ancient theories,
some modern studies have started looking
into the benefits of essential oils on stress.
The following are a few with both historical
and scientific backing.Neroli essential oil
Neroli essential oil is sourced from the
blossoms of the bitter orange tree, and has
been utilised around the world for centuries.
While sometimes used in relation to relieving
inflammation and for skin rejuvenation, it has
also had positive links to stress relief. A 2014
study involving 63 healthy post-menopausal
women found that after inhaling small doses
of neroli oil for five minutes twice daily, the oil
was effective in relieving a range of symptoms,
including reducing stress. For general use,
there is evidence suggesting that mixing
aromatherapy with massage can have a more
positive effect than aromatherapy alone, so it
may be worth suggesting neroli oil next time
you’re booked in for a massage.Basil essential oil
While the thought of basil may conjure
images of a vibrant pesto or delicious
Caprese salad, this herb brings much more to
the plate than you may think. Widely used in
aromatherapy, basil is said to offer a range of
health benefits because of the compounds it
contains, and one of these, linalool, has been
shown to reduce stress in several studies.
Inhaling the aroma or rubbing it on the skin
is thought to transmit messages to the limbic
system – the region of the brain linked to
controlling emotions – making it a top
choice by proponents in the field.Sandalwood
essential oil
Historically used for both its
woodsy, sweet fragrance and
medical properties, sandalwood
essential oil has become an
effective aid in reducing stress
using aromatherapy. In a pilot
study looking at the physiological
effects of some essential oils, it was
found that sandalwood essential
oil could alleviate the physiological reactions
to stress. In this particular test, the oil was
found to actually facilitate recovery after
being exposed to stress.fact
A study published in 2009
found that participants who
received rose essential oil saw
a decrease in blood pressure
and breathing rate, as well
as greater feelings of
relaxation.