15 Best Essential Oils For Meditation And Relaxation

Essential oils can be used for a variety of purposes, from relieving stress to improving mood. However, in this article, we’ll focus on how they can be used to relax and calm the body and mind, preparing you for a good meditation session.

So, why meditate? Studies have shown that meditating regularly can help lower blood pressure, lower LDL cholesterol, and relieve symptoms in people who suffer from chronic pain.

Moreover, science has shown that regular meditation practice can improve the function of the brain.

A study conducted at the Emory-Tibet Partnership established that meditation can increase one’s capability to interpret facial expressions. 

List Of 15 Essential Oils For Meditation And Relaxation

#1 Cedarwood

Cedarwood essential oil is steam distilled from the wood of the Cedar tree. It promotes the feeling of tranquility and is emotionally grounding.

#2 Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a perennial herb in the mint family that contains compounds that have a soothing effect and has a mild aroma similar to that of lemons.

This essential oil is mostly associated with calming and stress-relieving properties.

#3 Neroli

Neroli essential oil has a spicy and citric scent that makes it a popular ingredient in perfumes. It is extracted from the blossom of a bitter orange tree.

It is effective in reducing stress and blood pressure levels. A 2013 study found that neroli oil has a calming effect, especially when combined with chamomile and lavender oils.

#4 Catnip

Catnip is a perennial herb that is a member of the mint family. It is the preferred herb for people who want to soothe a stress-related upset stomach, bloating, nausea, and gas.

In addition, catnip essential oil helps the body to relax by unwinding knots of tension in muscles. 

#5 Palo Santo

Palo Santo oil is renowned for its profound healing powers and distinctive fragrance. It was used by the Incas for special ceremonies.

It is an excellent essential oil for spiritual upliftment and a great ally for maintaining emotional equanimity.

#6 Sandalwood

In Ayurvedic medicine, Sandalwood oil is an important remedy for the treatment of both mental and somatic disorders.

Diffusing sandalwood oil before meditation helps you feel relaxed and grounded.

According to a 2006 study, sandalwood essential oil increases alertness and wakefulness.

READ MORE: Best Essential Oils To Balance Your Chakras

#7 Ylang-ylang

Ylang-ylang oil is made from the flowers of the herb Cananga odorata genuina. This oil supports focus and helps to balance male and female energies.

Note – this essential oil shouldn’t be applied directly to the skin, however, it can be mixed with a base oil, like sweet coconut or almond oil. You can use 3 to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.

#8 German Chamomile

It can be used to reduce stress levels as well as inflammation of the digestive tract.

#9 Frankincense

It is an excellent choice for supporting your body’s natural response to healing. In addition, Frankincense oil can use used for calming your mind, supporting healthy sleep, and balancing emotions.

#10 Lavender

This essential oil is obtained by distillation from the flower spikes of certain species of lavender. Lavender has been shown to also help with irregular blood sugar count, headaches, and various skin irritations.

Lavender is used as a natural remedy for anxiety due to its natural soothing scent.

Note – it is one of the few essential oils that can be applied directly to the skin.

#11 Vetiver

Traditionally, the oil has been used in aromatherapy for its ability to provide a natural remedy for depression.

It may help your brain feel more awake if you are struggling to focus on a task. According to a 2015 study, vetiver essential oil is used in aromatherapy for relaxation.

#12 Jasmine

Jasmine essential oil is derived from the white flowers of Jasminum officinale plant.

It is one of the few essential oils that can calm you down without causing sleepiness. Therefore, jasmine oil is perfect to use before a meditation session.

#13 Clary Sage

Clary sage oil can help alleviate stress by inducing a sense of well-being. Breathe the scent in deeply to induce calmness on the go.

#14 Rose

According to a study published in the Iranian Red Crescent Medical Journal, rose essential oil can improve anxiety symptoms by reducing sympathetic stimulation.

#15 Bergamot

It is a cold-pressed essential oil that is produced by cells inside the rind of a bergamot orange fruit. Bergamot oil is great for balancing your emotions.

READ MORE: 12 Meditation Tips

How To Use Essential Oils For Meditation

You can experience the aromatic effects of these essential oils in several ways. For example, you can add 2-3 drops of these essential oils to a diffuser before a meditation session. This will release the scent into your room.

In addition, you can apply essential oils on your palms or wrists at the beginning of a meditation session which will enable you to be alert and aware while you are meditating.

Applying undiluted essential oils to your skin can cause irritation. Therefore, before applying an essential oil topically, dilute your essential oil with a carrier oil.

As a general rule of thumb, you should use 1 tsp of carrier oil for every drop of essential oil. Common carrier oils include extra virgin olive, jojoba, and coconut oils. 

Risks

Some assume that because these oils are derived from plants that they can’t hurt you but that is not true. Essential oils can also react with prescription drugs and can cause adverse reactions when used in excess. Make sure that you use essential oils as they are intended. 

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