8 Best Essential Oils for Anxiety

Since ancient times, essential oils have been used to prevent illness and address diseases. Modern-day science confirms their positive effects on many aspects of well-being, including mental health and, specifically, their ability to ease feelings of anxiety. (8)

Essential oils are highly concentrated compounds extracted from aromatic plants via steam distillation, hydrodiffusion, or pressure that are then used as aromatherapy for a variety of conditions including anxiety and stress. (10) Keep reading to learn more about the best essential oils for anxiety and how to use them.

Best essential oils for anxiety

Breathing in essential oils, whether applied topically or inhaled when diffused in the air, has been shown to improve mood and mental wellness by triggering the release of calming neurochemicals, such as GABA, in the nerve centers of the brain. (3)(4) There are many essential oils for anxiety. Here we focus on eight unique essential oils for anxiety that have been featured in scientific literature.

1. Bergamot

The citrus essential oil bergamot (Citrus bergamia), either alone or with other oils, has been shown to help ease symptoms of anxiety and stress. A 2017 pilot study found that bergamot oil diffused into the air helped reduce anxiety and improve mental health and overall well-being in patients in the waiting room of a mental health treatment facility. (5)

2. Clary sage

The earthy floral scent of clary sage (Salvia sclarea) may also help with anxiety. A 2013 study featuring women undergoing a stressful medical exam found that inhaling clary sage essential oil not only led to a subjective relaxation response but also lowered blood pressure. Researchers noted a decreasing trend in salivary cortisol concentrations; however, it was not significantly different compared to placebo. Nevertheless, the decreasing trend suggests that clary sage may have stress-lowering capabilities. (11)

3. Frankincense

Frankincense (Boswellia sacra) comes from the resin of the Boswellia tree and, therefore, has a woody aroma. A 2011 study found that anxiety levels were decreased in the first stage of labour when a combination of frankincense and other calming oils were used topically. (7)

4. Lavender

Lavender (Lavandula) oil has long been used topically and aromatically as a calming agent. Research has shown the benefit of inhaling lavender oil in a variety of anxiety-provoking medical scenarios including cosmetic surgery, preoperative anxiety, and postpartum anxiety. While most essential oils should not be taken orally, standardized lavender essential oil found in dietary supplement form has been shown to be safe and effective in easing anxiety when inhaled and taken orally. (9)

5. Lemon balm

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) has been shown to have anxiolytic, mood-enhancing, and cognitive-improving effects in a variety of human clinical trials. As a dietary supplement and inhaled as an essential oil, lemon balm may help reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety. (12)

6. Neroli

Neroli oil comes from the Citrus aurantium plant and has been shown to help with symptoms of stress and anxiety. In a 2014 randomized controlled trial involving menopausal women, inhalation of neroli essential oil not only helped with menopausal symptoms and stress but also lowered blood pressure, improved sexual desire, and helped balance cortisol and estrogen levels. (2)

7. Rose

As with most other essential oils, rose (Rosa) water has been used since ancient times to enhance health and healing, including mental health. A 2016 study involving hemodialysis patients found that inhaling rose water helped noticeably improve symptoms of anxiety. (1) A 2019 randomized controlled trial found that inhalation of both rose and neroli essential oils help improve the psychological, physical, and social symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). (6)

8. Ylang ylang

Often used in the fragrance industry, ylang ylang (Cananga odorata) has a slightly sweet and floral aroma. Research shows that inhaling the essential oil of ylang ylang may help reduce blood pressure, and symptoms of depression and anxiety. (13)

How to use essential oils for anxiety

Essential oils can be applied topically when diluted with a carrier oil or inhaled to improve anxiety. The graphic below describes some of the methods for using essential oils.

The bottom line

Essential oils have a long history of use as potent healing agents. When inhaled or applied topically, many of these potent aromas can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress and contribute to improved overall wellness.If you are interested in using essential oils for anxiety, consider consulting with an integrative practitioner for further guidance.