Most Americans are stressed. According to a survey by the American Psychological Association, more than three-quarters of the population experience physical symptoms of stress, like headaches and fatigue, and more than a quarter say they are too stressed to function. There are a variety of reasons behind it; for some it’s the political situation, for others it’s inflation. For many, day-to-day life is just overwhelming.
If everything feels too much to handle right now, there are plenty of things you can do to relax. For example, talking to a friend, family member, or health care professional may provide some relief. Exercising or getting outside in nature may also help. But for many people, self-care is also an important part of relieving stress. According to one survey by Vagaro, 75% of Americans believe that self-care activities, like an at-home spa routine, help reduce stress.
If you’re looking for an effective way to calm your mind, taking a bubble bath and using essential oils might be the answer. We’re not saying it will eliminate inflation, but it might help you find a moment of calm amidst the chaos. We spoke to aromatherapist and perfumer Melike Atilgan about the best essential oils to use in the winter. But first, what are essential oils? And why do they have a relaxing effect?
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What are essential oils? Are they vegan?
“Essential oils are natural compounds extracted from plants,” Atilgun explains. “They don’t contain any animal-derived compounds, so they’re suitable for vegans. And many essential oils on the market aren’t tested on animals.” That said, Atilgun points out that some cosmetic brands that sell essential oils don’t test on animals, so consumers should be cautious and always double-check the ethics before buying.
Some of the most popular essential oils include frankincense, lavender, peppermint, and lemon, and they can be used in a variety of forms: some people use them in diffusers or humidifiers, others apply them directly to the skin, or even add a few drops to their bath water.
If you do use essential oils on your body, do so with caution, Atilgun says. “Do not apply directly to the skin undiluted. Use for external use only. If you have any health problems, are taking medication, or are pregnant, consult your doctor before use,” she points out.
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How do essential oils work?
Essential oils are big business, with a global market size approaching $22 billion in 2022. Essential oils have been around for thousands of years and continue to be an important part of Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine.
When it comes to relaxation benefits, modern science agrees that essential oils are beneficial. In July 2023, a West Virginia University study suggested that aromatherapy may help relieve stress in people undergoing treatment for substance use disorders, for example. In 2022, another study was published. Applied Science These results suggest that aromatherapy may significantly reduce stress in older adults.
According to Atilgun, essential oils affect the limbic system, the part of the brain responsible for behavioral and emotional responses. “Each oil contains unique chemical compounds with therapeutic properties that trigger emotions and physical responses,” she notes. “The limbic system, the oldest part of the brain, responds to olfactory stimuli and influences the body’s responses.”
She added that different oils have different benefits, but in winter, “our bodies crave warm, comforting, invigorating scents.”
Aromatherapist’s recommendations for the best essential oils for winter
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1 citrus
“Energizing and invigorating oils like orange and grapefruit are great for winter,” says Atilgun. “These oils will warm you up and lift your mood. Citrus oils are also great air purifiers.”
Notable citrus oils: Lemon, grapefruit, bergamot, citronella, mandarin, lime.
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2 Herbs and spices
“Spices like cardamom, cloves, and vanilla are great for supporting the immune system and offer warming aromas,” Atirgun says, adding that the Ayurvedic herb frankincense “helps with respiratory health” (helpful during cold and flu season!).
Notable herbs and spices: Cardamom, cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, frankincense, clove, coriander.
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3 Floral
“Floral scents like patchouli have uplifting and nourishing properties,” says Atilgun. Rose, jasmine and lavender are other popular floral essential oils that are often used in skin care products and perfumes because of their pleasant scents.
Notable floral essential oils: Patchouli, rose, jasmine, lavender, chamomile, geranium, neroli.
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Charlotte is an editor and writer at VegNews based in sunny Southsea on the south coast of England.
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