The role of Aromatherapy in managing stress
A professional perspective: The role of Aromatherapy in Managing Stress
by clinical Aromatherapist and aroma brand development specialist Julie Foster BA (Hons) PGCE FRSPH MNAHA
Introduction
The aim of this article is to explore how stress conditions are driving the expanding aromatherapy market, highlighting its significance in mental health. Additionally, it provides a list of essential oils that are frequently utilized by aromatherapy practitioners to address common stress-related conditions.
What is stress
The World Health Organization (WHO) describes stress as a response to external pressures, while the UK's National Health Service (NHS) defines it as the body's reaction to pressure. The charity Mind explains stress as our reaction to feeling under pressure or threatened, often when we face situations that seem overwhelming or beyond our control.
A YouGov mental health survey of 4,418 UK adults found that one in three (34%) adults frequently experienced high levels of stress or pressure 'always' or 'often.' Additionally, nine in ten (91%) had experienced at least one episode of high stress over the past year.
The NHS notes that while some stress can be motivating, excessive or chronic stress can be detrimental to health. More detailed information can be found on the Mind and NHS websites.
Stress affects both mental and physical health, contributing to a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, cardiovascular diseases, and weakened immune responses.
The infographic below highlights some common symptoms of stress impacting on health and well-being for which aromatherapy is a popular remedy.
Aromatherapy, an alternative therapy that utilizes essential oils for therapeutic benefit, is a well-established method for alleviating stress via professional treatments or home self-care. Aromatherapy treatment involves inhaling the fragrant compounds found in essential oils or applying them topically, often diluted in a carrier oil.
How is aromatherapy effective in relieving stress symptoms
The theory behind aromatherapy is that each essential oil has properties that give health benefits. Some essential oils are thought to:
- Have an anti-inflammatory effect which may help with inflammatory conditions
- Help to fight off infection
- Help with sleeping problems
- Lessen anxiety
- Calm the heart or breathing rate
- Elevate or soothe the mood.
- Reduce cravings
- Relieve pain
Essential oils are believed to work as follows:
- Absorption through the skin into body tissues
- Stimulating the sense of smell which promotes physiological and psychological changes.
- The molecules of the different chemical components within the essential oils bind with receptors in the olfactory bulb within the brain which affects the emotional control centre of the brain (limbic system).
The key functions of the limbic system in the brain believed to be affected by essential oils are:
- Emotional Regulation: The limbic system is integral to the expression and regulation of emotions.
- Motivation and Reward: The limbic system is involved in the brain's reward pathways, reinforcing behaviours which are critical for motivation and survival behaviours.
- Response to Stress: The limbic system helps mediate responses to stress and anxiety, engaging the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This impacts on the release of stress hormones like cortisol.
- Homeostasis: Parts of the limbic system, particularly the hypothalamus, regulate various autonomic functions of the body, including hunger, thirst and sleep cycles.
- Psychological presentation: The limbic system influences behaviours related to attachment and emotions.
Scientific Research
Research to verify these claims is limited due to professional financial and practical constraints.
Johnathon Hinde writing in the IFPA (International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists) journal “In Essence” page 13 Vol. 20 No. 2 — Spring/Summer 2022 states:
Jonathan Hinde is Managing Director of essential oil suppliers Oshadhi Ltd in the UK. He is a teacher, and writer on essential oils. jonathan@oshadhi.co.uk
Some examples of relevant research papers are as follows:
The effects of aromatherapy in relieving symptoms related to job stress among nurses. This study published in the International Journal of Nursing Practice found that lavender oil inhalation was effective in reducing job stress-related symptoms among nurses by Miao-Chuan Chen MS RN, Shu-Hui Fang MSE, Li Fang MSN RN
The Role of Aromatherapy in Reducing Anxiety by RI Whaol Kim and Myoungsuk Kim published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine - Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine 2024 30:10, 940-952 Sangwin, McKinley J., "A Study on Stress and Aromatherapy Intervention Efficacy" (2016). Undergraduate Theses, Professional Papers, and Capstone Artifacts. 73. University of Montana
Effects of olfactory stimulus on group performance and individual stress responses in university students
by Katie McDermott, Priscilla Nash, Amber Boyington, Lixlia Perez Planell, Steven Joe, Karin Streifel, Gena Nichols, Bethany Lucas, Allyson Spence & Jay Campisi published in the journal of Physiology & Behaviour Volume 254, 1 October 2022, 113905
Modulation of Cognitive Performance and Mood by Mark Moss1, Steven Hewitt1, Lucy Moss1, and Keith Wesnes1,2 1Human Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, Division of Psychology, University of Northumbria, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8ST, U.K. 2Cognitive Drug Research Ltd.,
Expert Resource from the Aromatherapy professional membership organisations
The International Federation of Aromatherapists is currently co-operating with the University of Northumbria for research trials into the impact of essential oils on the stress hormone cortisol. Headed by Dr Mark Moss, head of the Department of Psychology and Professor of Psychobiology Mark Wetherell, lead for the Health and Wellbeing research cluster. The initial results are very positive. Caution they were supposed to release the results of stage 2 and 3 mid 24 but if they have it has not been made public. They appear to be using it to sell their own blend!
These research papers and expert presentations underline the potential of aromatherapy as an effective complementary approach to stress management. By incorporating aromatherapy into daily routines and a holistic approach to health and well-being, individuals may find more effective ways to cope with the stressors of modern life. As research continues to evolve in this area, the relationship between essential oils and their stress-relieving properties will remain an important topic of research.
The popularity of aromatherapy
Dr. Sarah White, Associate Clinical Director, Bupa Health Clinics, in her annual review on 24 January 2024, stated that 9 out of 10 of the British public had tried complementary therapy at some time, whether it is buying products from a pharmacy or health food store or visiting clinics for treatments.
A survey by the FHT (federation of Holistic Therapists) in 2019 found that aromatherapy is one of the top three complementary therapies requested by the public in the UK. The “Cancer Research” Charity include it in their list of complementary health treatments that may help patients with general well-being and anxiety.
One of the accepted reasons why aromatherapy is such a common complementary therapy is because its essential oils are easily available and can be self-administered or accessed as an aromatherapy treatment delivered by a therapist. Aromatherapy is well trusted, widely available and considered safe. A unique advantage compared to other complementary treatments it that it is considered pleasurable to use because the fragrance element.
For those actual and prospective members of ATC who have a commercial interest in the aromatherapy trade, the market is predicted to continue its robust growth, with rising stress levels being a key driver.
November 2024
2024-2033 Aromatherapy Market Outlook
The Aromatherapy Market has experienced significant growth in recent years.
- The industry grew from $2.12 billion in 2024 to $2.33 billion in 2025, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.8%. The aromatherapy market is anticipated to expand further in the coming years.
- By 2029, the market is projected to reach $3.43 billion, with a CAGR of 10.2%. Factors contributing to this growth include increasing consumer awareness of therapeutic benefits, enhanced research and development efforts, and rising demand for health and well-being products.
Mental Health as a Key Driver Propelling The Aromatherapy Market Growth?
Increasing stress, anxiety, and depression are driving the aromatherapy market's growth. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused uncertainty, routine disruptions, financial pressures, and social isolation, leading to more stress and mental health disorders. People are turning to chemical-free solutions like aromatherapy for relief. The WHO reported a 25% rise in global anxiety and depression during the first year of the pandemic. Consequently, the demand for aromatherapy is expected to grow through 2025-29.
Aromatherapy treatments for common stress related health conditions
Practitioner ATC members and others familiar with the extensive expert and experience based aromatherapy publications and media output will be aware that there are many oils that may be suitable for treating individual conditions not least because of the wide range and often individual psychological and physiological factors underlying the different stress induced health and wellbeing problems.
The following essential oils are relevant to the treatment of common stress related conditions. The list is by no means exhaustive and because the same therapeutic chemical constituents within essential oils are found across a selection of oils, therefore different practitioners may have different recommendations.
Basil Essential Oil
Basil, derived from the Greek word "Basileum" meaning King, was used to anoint Kings. It has a fresh, stimulating scent believed to revitalize the mind and clarify thoughts. Basil essential oil is commonly used in aromatherapy to revive tired muscles and support digestion that may be disrupted by stress.
Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distillation
Parts Used: Leaves and flowering tops
Note Classification: Top
Aroma: Fresh, warm, spicy, herbaceous
Largest producing countries: USA, France, Italy, Egypt, Bulgaria, and Hungary
| Safety Note: | Avoid if pregnant or if your Skin is sensitive |
| Mind Stimulant | helps relive physical and psychological fatigue |
| Body | Soothes the digestive system and can help manage stress related flatulence |
| Blends well with | Lemon, Lavender and Cedarwood |
Bergamot Essential Oil (Bergapten Free*)
This exquisitely fragranced essential oil is primarily used for relaxation and is often referred to as "nature's Prozac" in the aromatherapy community. It is particularly popular to manage symptoms caused by overwork or pressure, helping to calm the Mind. Its scent is luxurious popular among both men and women, making it a favoured ingredient in gender-neutral fragrances. Dior, Chanel, Versace all use it their fragrances but Calvin Kleins unisex perfume CK leads with it.
Botanical Name: Citrus bergamia
Common Method Of Extraction: Cold expression, vacuum distillation, and in some cases steam distilled
Parts Used: Outer fruit peel
Note Classification: Top
Aroma: Fresh, spicy, floral, citrus
Largest Producing Countries: Italy, California, and Mediterranean countries
| Safety note | Avoid sun exposure |
| Skin | May be helpful for Acne, eczema, psoriasis |
| Mind | “natures prozac” –antidepressant and may be good for nervous anxiety and work related tension |
| Blends well with | Sandalwood, Rose , Chamomile and Orange |
*Bergapten is the chemical constituent which may cause dermal sensitisation. It causes Skin to turn slightly brown in sunlight (hence it was the main ingredient of bergasol sun tanning lotions). It can be purchased with or without the bergapten still in the oil –because some people prefer the scent with the bergapten in it.
Cajeput Essential Oil
Cajeput has historically been used for its ability to produce a sensation of warmth and comfort. In Australia the crushed leaves and twigs have been applied directly to relieve aches and pains. In modern aromatherapy it is still used to ease aches and pains and as a massage blend after sport.
Botanical Name: Melaleuca minor
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distillation
Parts Used: Leaves and twigs
Note Classification: Top/middle
Aroma: Strong, slightly sweet, camphoraceous, medicinal.
Largest Producing Countries: Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Java, and Australia
| Safety note | Not to be used in pregnancy |
| Skin | Popular to help stress related break outs |
| Mind | Stimulating – may help concentration |
| Body | Warming and helpful for aches and pains |
| Blends well with | Clary Sage, lavender and geranium |
Chamomile, Roman Essential Oil
Chamomile is an emotionally soothing oil & has a balancing effect on the moods. Ideal for the hyperactive, workaholic types & the chronic worriers. Chamomile has been used as a medicine for thousands of years, dating back to the ancient Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks. It was also one of the nine sacred herbs of the Anglo-Saxons. Because of its various healing powers, chamomile was believed to be a gift of the gods. In the language of flowers chamomile stands for "Patience in adversity”.
Botanical Name: Arthemis nobilis or Chamaemelum nobile
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Flowers
Note Classification: Middle
Aroma: Fresh, rich, sweet, fruity, apple-like aroma
Largest Producing Countries: USA, Britain, Belgium, Hungary, Italy, and France
| Safety note | Non-Toxic |
| Skin | Popular to calm Irritated Skin |
| Mind | May be helpful for Stress, panic and insomnia |
| Body | Anti-inflammatory and soothing |
| Blends well with | Black pepper, Bergamot, lavender, mandarin and Lemon |
Clary Sage Essential Oil
Clary Sage has a euphoric effect that makes it a useful oil for treating work related tension & fatigue. The benefits of this oil have been recognised since the birth of Christ. By the C16th it was widely grown & used as a therapeutic tonic. Avoid in pregnancy.
Botanical Name: Salvia sclarea
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Flowering tops and leaves
Note Classification: Middle
Aroma: Dry, musky, bittersweet floral
Largest Producing Countries: USA, France, Morocco, Britain, and Russia
| Safety note | Avoid in pregnancy |
| Mind | Euphoric, common treatment option for depression and anxiety and feelings of isolation |
| Blends well with | Rose, Ylang Ylang and Sandalwood |
Clove bud essential oil
Historically it is believed that the people of Penang (among the “Spice Islands”) were free from epidemics until the sixteenth century, when Dutch conquerors destroyed the clove trees that flourished on those islands. Many of the islanders died from the epidemics that followed. Clove shares a lot of therapeutic characteristics of tea tree, so regardless of whether the folklore is true, there can be no doubt of its therapeutic value. In Victorian times up until present times, it has a well-deserved reputation for soothing muscular pain.
In modern aromatherapy, it is used in warming blends for joints and muscles and as a popular antidote to fatigue.
Botanical Name: Eugenia aromatica or caryophyllata
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Flower buds
Note Classification: Middle
Aroma: Warm, spicy, woody, with a slightly fruity top note
Largest Producing Countries: Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and Madagascar
| Safety note | Avoid during pregnancy and spot test before use on sensitive Skins |
| Skin | Warms and stimulates |
| Mind | Gives comfort and can help lift depression |
| Body | Popular to help with aches and pains |
| Blends well with |
orange, clary sage, ginger, lime, mandarin, palmarosa, and ylang ylang.
|
Frankincense Essential Oil
Frankincense slows down & deepens breathing, which is why it is so conducive to prayer. It is of benefit to those who cannot "switch off" and is an ideal oil for chronic worriers. It is also very helpful for mature or damaged Skin. Pictorial evidence from the tombs of the Pharaohs shows that Frankincense has been used since 1500BC.
Botanical Name: Boswellia carterii
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Resin
Note Classification: Base
Aroma: Fresh, woody, spicy, balsamic with a citrus top note
Largest Producing Countries: India, North Africa, Europe
| Safety note | Non toxic |
| Skin | May be helpful for irritated or dehydrated Skin |
| Mind | It is considered to slow down and deepen breathing, helping to “switch off” problems. Also relieves nervous agitation and feelings of panic |
| Blends well with | Rose, Chamomile, Orange and Geranium |
Geranium (Rose) Essential Oil
Geranium has a close affinity with the female system & is therefore a popular oil for the aromatherapy beginner as well as the professional. It is emotionally soothing & has a fabulous scent that makes it ideal for a relaxing room fragrance.
Botanical Name: Pelargonium graveolens
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Flowers and leaves
Note Classification: Middle
Aroma: Heavy, sweet, floral
Largest Producing Countries: Egypt, Spain, France, Italy
| Safety note | Non toxic |
| Mind | It may be beneficial for nervous tension, mood swings, irritability, anger, and emotional instability |
| Body | Considered to be a positive influence on the female cycle |
| Blends well with |
Ylang Ylang, Sandalwood and Lemongrass
|
Ginger Essential Oil
Ginger is a warm and familiar oil that is ideal for soothing the Mind and counteracting fatigue. Aromatherapists use it in blends for the winter or for the joints and muscles. In many cultures Ginger has historically been revered as a sacred herb with a positive influence on the Mind and Body.
Botanical Name: Zingiber officinale
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Root
Note Classification: Low/Middle
Aroma: Fresh, warm, woody, sweet bright top note
Largest Producing Countries: Sri Lanka, Jamaica, Nigeria, India
| Safety note | Avoid massage use in those who have extra sensitive Skin |
| Skin |
N/A
|
| Mind |
It may be helpful for work-related fatigue, intellectual burnout, feelings of incapacitation, and low energy self-esteem
|
| Body |
A popular treatment for aches and pains
|
| Blends well with |
Lavender, Orange and Cedarwood
|
Grapefruit Essential Oil
Grapefruit is wonderfully refreshing & is helpful for energising the Mind & Body. It is ideal as a stimulant to be used whilst studying or in the car to maintain concentration & stay alert. It is associated with cleansing and detoxification of the Mind and Body. It is also used to relieve mental or emotional pressure.
Botanical Name: Citrus paradisi
Common Method Of Extraction: Cold pressed
Parts Used: Fruit peel
Note Classification: Top
Aroma: Fresh, tangy citrus
Largest Producing Countries: USA, West Indies
| Safety note | Non toxic |
| Mind | It may be helpful for managing performance stress, head tension, negative feelings, intrusive thoughts, and psychological detox |
| Body | A common treatment for muscle fatigue and overindulgence in unhealthy food or substances |
| Blends well with | Rosemary, Lemongrass, and Myrrh |
Cedarwood Essential Oil
Cedarwood has been known since antiquity for its strength. It is impenetrable to insects or water hence its use for building temples, making chariots or the ships boxes in which the captain kept all the papers. Cedarwood is the tree of life, and the oil imparts courage –it is believed to be the oil that David anointed himself with before fighting Goliath. In aromatherapy it is a sustainable and ethical alternative to other hardwood oils such as rosewood and sandalwood. It is relatively inexpensive compared to other woody essential oils so is a good commercial as well as therapeutic choice.
Botanical Name: Cedrus atlantica
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Wood
Note Classification: Base
Aroma: Woody, balsamic, rich dry overtones
Largest Producing Countries: USA, Africa and Morocco
| Safety note | Non toxic |
| Skin | A common treatment for stress-related acne, eczema, and dermatitis |
| Mind | May help to counteract foreboding, fear, and worry |
| Body | Commonly used to assist with fatigue, anxiety, and mental health stress |
| Blends well with | Patchouli, Lavender and Lemon |
Cypress Essential Oil
Cypress is a balancing oil and is valuable during times of “upheaval”. It been used as a purification incense since ancient civilisation and is associated with hope and resilience. Biblical scholars believe that cypress wood was used to make the cross on which Jesus Christ was crucified The modern Aromatherapist uses it to help individuals to clear their Minds and promote resilience and self-confidence.
Botanical Name: Cupressus Sempervirens
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Needles and twigs
Note Classification: Middle
Aroma: Green, woody, balsamic aroma.
Largest Producing Countries: France, Spain, Morocco
| Safety note | Contra-indicated to pregnancy |
| Mind | Helps relieve negative feelings and promote resilience |
| Body | A popular choice for muscle aches and discomfort |
| Blends well with | Myrrh, Orange and Chamomile |
Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender from the Roman word “Lavare” meaning to cleanse is of great benefit on an emotional & physical level. A good "balancer" so it is useful in helping people to recover from mood "swings". Ideal for use prior to bed or during nighttime awakenings. Also well known for relieving head tension. Has a restorative, tonic effect & is often used in blends to relieve discomfort in the joints & muscles.
Botanical Name: Lavendula Angustifolia
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Flowers and stalks
Note Classification: Middle
Aroma: Floral, herby, balsamic, green aroma.
Largest Producing Countries: France, Bulgaria, England
| Safety note | Non-toxic |
| Skin | Soothes and protects skin |
| Mind | An aromatherapy choice for difficulty in relaxing and mental stress agitation |
| Body | It may help with headaches, generalized pain, and fever |
| Blends well with | Sandalwood, Chamomile, Rose and Orange |
Palmarosa Essential Oil
Palmarosa, an exotic and rich and exquisitely aromatic oil, is known for its benefits in alleviating nervous tension and stress-related issues. It also has a natural affinity for the digestive system, making it useful for calming a "nervous tummy". Originating in Southeast Asia, Palmarosa has long been an integral part of traditional medicine practices in the region.
Botanical Name: Cymbopogon martinii
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Grass
Note Classification: Middle
Aroma: Sweet, floral, rosy, geranium-like
Largest Producing Countries: Nepal, India, and Pakistan
| Safety note | Non toxic |
| Skin | Often selected for stressed and dehydrated Skin |
| Body | May help calm the digestive tract |
| Mind | Palmarosa is believed to help reduce anxiety and stress, contributing to emotional well-being |
| Blends well with | Bergamot, Sandalwood and Jasmine |
Patchouli Essential Oil
This musky scented oil from the spectacular Patchouli flowers is well known as a perfume.
In Aromatherapy it is used for its profoundly relaxing, almost hypnotic effect. Many Aromatherapists use it blended with a touch of sharp citrus as an atmospheric stress relieving room scent.
Botanical Name: Pogostemon cablin
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Leaves
Note Classification: Base
Aroma: Earthy, smoky, spicy, and musky
Largest Producing Countries: Indonesia, India, China, and Malaysia
| Safety note | Non toxic |
| Skin | It may soothe Reactive, oily or irritated Skin |
| Mind | A common choice for low sex drive, chronic worry, and mental exhaustion |
| Body | Recognized for easing muscular tension |
| Blends well with | Ylang Ylang, Lime, Cedarwood and Lemon |
Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint, distilled from the flowers and leaves of the herb, is an inexpensive essential oil useful for treating stress-related fatigue and head tension. It has "cephalic" properties, stimulating the hippocampus, which enhances concentration and clarity of thought. This makes it ideal for those overwhelmed by stress symptoms. For those put off by the strong scent of peppermint, spearmint essential oil offers a gentler, fragrant alternative with similar properties.
Historical evidence from Egyptian tombs dating back to 300 BC shows that peppermint's medicinal properties were recognized in early civilizations. The name "Peppermint" comes from the Latin word ‘mente,’ meaning thought, as the Romans used it as a brain tonic. The Greeks believed its name derived from Mintha, a mythological figure killed by Persephone, leading to the belief that it could “stir up passions." Consequently, they forbade their warriors from consuming it to prevent distraction in battle. In contrast, Jews historically scented synagogue floors with mint, believing it helped to purify and focus the mind for prayer.
Botanical Name: Mentha piperita
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Flowering plant
Note Classification: Middle
Aroma: Fresh, very minty, hot, herbaceous, with a vegetative back note
Largest Producing Countries: USA, Africa, and Egypt
| Safety note | Non toxic |
| Mind | May help slow the thought process and improve focus and memory recall |
| Body |
Commonly used for stress-related sensations of pain, headaches, flatulence, nausea, burping, and stress-related digestive problems (irritable bowel) syndrome)
|
| Blends well with |
Rosemary, lemon and Tea-tree
|
Rosemary Essential Oil
Rosemary stimulates the nervous system and is commonly recommended as a tonic during periods of stress. It is known to improve memory and concentration and can help combat work-related fatigue. It is also a warming oil, which is helpful in treating joint and muscle discomfort.
Rosemary from two words “Ros” “Marinus” meaning Rose of the sea was considered a Sacred plant by the Romans. Christians believed that the flowers were originally white but turned blue when the Virgin Mary hung her cloak on a bush on the journey to Bethlehem. In the West Rosemary has always been associated with memory such as in Ophelia’s much quoted line from Hamlet “That’s rosemary for remembrance”.
Botanical Name: Rosmarinus officinalis
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Flowering tops
Note Classification: Middle
Aroma: Strong, fresh, camphor-like and with a woody-balsamic undertone
Largest Producing Countries: Spain, France, and Tunisia
| Safety note | Avoid in pregnancy or if epileptic |
| Skin | Commonly believed to stimulate healthy hair growth and improve shine and condition |
| Mind | May help alleviate fatigue, lack of direction, and poor memory function |
| Body | Often a self-care choice for aches, pains, and stiffness; snoring; and loss of smell |
| Blends well with | Peppermint, Tea-tree, grapefruit, eucalyptus and Lavender |
Sandalwood, Australian Essential Oil
Sandalwood has been used since the C5th and is known as the oil of divinity i.e. endless life, and it is believed to carry prayers or wishes heavenward. In Aromatherapy it is helpful for individuals who overwork and find it difficult to "Switch off”. Has a beneficial effect on dry and sensitive Skin. Note Australian sandalwood is recommended due to the eco and sustainability issues linked with Indian sandalwood plus deforestation.
Botanical Name: Santalum spicatum
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Roots and heartwood
Note Classification: Base
Aroma: Soft, woody, extremely tenacious and somewhat balsamic
Largest Producing Countries: Australia
| Safety note | Non toxic |
| Skin | May be beneficial for mature, dry, overreactive Skins |
| Mind | Can help to “switch off” an overactive mind, calm anxiety, and is also believed to assist with wakening and restlessness in the early hours of the morning |
| Body | May relieve muscle tension and stiffness caused by stress and stimulate libido, which may be compromised by stress |
| Blends well with | Rose, Chamomile and Ylang Ylang |
Tea Tree Essential Oil
The name derives from an aboriginal source where the leaves of the plant were brewed into an herbal tea. In modern Aromatherapy, Tea Tree is one of the most widely used oils and is often referred to as nature’s medicine chest. It has powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties. It has an affinity with the skin and the immune system. It is often blended with other oils to make the scent less “medicinal”. It is such a popular oil it is often referred to as “natures medicine chest”.
Botanical Name: Melaleuca alternifolia
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Leaves and twigs
Note Classification: Middle
Aroma: Warm, Fresh, spicy-camphoraceous
Largest Producing Countries: Australia
| Safety note | Non toxic |
| Skin | Recognized to counteract stress-related skin imbalances and breakouts |
| Mind | May help cleanse negativity thoughts |
| Body | Known to support the immune system |
| Blends well with | Myrrh, Geranium, Lemon and Lavender |
Thyme, Red Essential Oil
Thyme was first used by Hippocrates and has been used in most cultures since.
This warm, comforting and spicy oil is believed to strengthen the Mind during times of adversity. Has an affinity with the digestive system and is often used in blends for the joints and muscles. Avoid in pregnancy.
Botanical Name: Thymus vulgaris and Thymus zygis
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Flowering plant
Note Classification: Middle
Aroma: Warm, spicy-herbaceous, powerful
Largest Producing Countries: Spain and France
| Safety note | Avoid during pregnancy and refrain from massage if skin is sensitive. Avoid for children |
| Mind | May help refresh the mind and strengthen resolve |
| Body | A remedy for irritable bowel syndrome, indigestion, and to relieve aches pains |
| Blends well with | Lavender, orange and Geranium |
Ylang Lang Extra Essential Oil
Ylang Ylang, known as Flower of Flowers in folklore, is a sweet floral oil that will "lift the spirits" and counteract general irritability. Has a reputation as a sensual oil and since Victorian times it has been used for its positive effects on the hair and scalp. Many Aromatherapists prefer to use it blended with a touch of Lavender or a Citrus.
Botanical Name: Cananga odorata
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Flower
Note Classification: Base
Aroma: Intensely sweet, soft, floral-balsamic, slightly spicy scent, with a creamy rich top note
Largest Producing Countries: Comoro Islands, Madagascar, and Reunion
| Safety note | Non toxic |
| Skin | Popular for hair thinning related to stress |
| Mind | May help counteract irritability, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem |
| Body | Believed to counteract physical lethargy |
| Blends well with | Cypress, Myrrh, Cedarwood and Jasmine |
Administering Essential Oils Safely
There are many ways to incorporate the stimulating oils into everyday life , but the following are the most common. Note the amount of essential oil recommended would normally be from one oil or the sum of up to three different oils.
- Inhalation: Using an essential oil diffuser (either candle or electric) to disperse the oil into the air (Up to 1.5% i.e. 18 drops per 50ml of water) or placing a few drops on a tissue (up to 4 drops) and inhaling the fragrance. Clay or wood diffuser discs can also be used.
- Topical Application: Diluted in a carrier oil, lotion or cream and applying to the skin as a massage or a beauty treatment. (up to 1.5% concentration i.e. up to 6 drops in a tablespoonful (15ml)
- Shower gel: (Up to 1.5% i.e. up to 6 drops in a tablespoon of fragrance free gel or salt)
- Bath gel: This depends on the amount of water so approximately up to 10 drops ideally diluted in a tablespoonful of neutral bath oil, dairy or plant milk or vodka
- Salt: Depending on the amount of water, up to 10 drops dispersed into a tablespoon of neutral bath gel or vodka and then mixed with a cup of sea, table or Epsom salt.
- Roll Ons: Diluted essential oils applied to the pulse points from a roller bottle. 1% i.e. up to 6 drops in 25ml of carrier oil
- Room sprays: Essential oils dispersed into water (with a specialist dispersant or alcohol e.g. vodka) up to 2% i.e. 25 drops per 50ml
- Pillow sprays: Essential oils dispersed into water (with a specialist dispersant or alcohol e.g. vodka) up to 1.5% i.e. 17 drops in 50ml
Important note: Some essential stimulating oils have a particularly strong aroma so the dilutions would be lowered to avoid an overwhelming fragrance
If pregnant or suffering from serious health problems, then please seek advice from a qualified Aromatherapist. Essential Oils should never be taken internally and are best stored in a cool, dark place with the cap firmly in place. Keep out of the reach of children.
Conclusion
As the evidence mounts regarding the mental and physical toll of chronic stress, aromatherapy continues to gain recognition as a valuable complementary therapy. Its ability to engage the senses, influence the nervous system, and support emotional resilience makes it an accessible form of therapeutic health care. The essential oils discussed in this article illustrate both the therapeutic breadth of aromatherapy and its adaptability to individual needs—whether administered through professional treatments or incorporated into daily routines.
Although further research is essential to deepen clinical understanding, the experiential and historical knowledge within the aromatherapy community offers an important resource for managing modern stress. As the wellness market expands and more individuals seek natural, chemical-free options for emotional support, aromatherapy is uniquely positioned at the intersection of integrative health practice.
