Have you ever walked into a store or house and instantly felt relaxed? This happens to me whenever I walk into any health food store. I get an immediate feeling of calm and happiness. The smell evokes memories from childhood and visiting the health food store with my parents.
The sense of smell is a very powerful one. Smell is the only sense that is directly linked to the limbic system. The limbic center is the part of the brain that controls emotional, physical, and psychological responses. When essential oils are used to heal, their aroma plays a big part in that healing.
In studies performed in Vienna and Berlin Universities, researchers discovered that sesquiterpenes, a natural compound found in essential oils of Vetiver, Patchouli, Cedarwood, Sandalwood, and Frankincense, can increase levels of oxygen in the brain by up to 28 percent. This increase in oxygen to helps the brain heal and resolve many issues. It can improve learning and concentration while also helping to support immune and hormonal balances. An added bonus is that is can also lead to higher energy levels.
A study performed on students with ADHD ages 11-12 showed positive results when essential oils were used. It was very noticeable that both the oils and the relaxation improved concentration. Students definitely stayed calmer, longer, and recovered quickly from upsets. There were fewer disruptions to lessons. In the same study, a blend of frankincense, chamomile Roman, lavender, bergamot, and mandarin was made. This combination helped ease panic attacks and feelings of anxiety in an ADHD client.
It was discovered in the late 80s that the amygdala plays a role in storing and releasing emotional trauma. Essential oils and therapy can now be used to help repair emotional trauma. They have little side effects, compared to their pharmaceutical counterparts, which means they may be safer for healing trauma.
Any head trauma or injury is taken very seriously, and for good reasons. Whether it is a mild concussion or surgery, the healing process is usually very long. Frankincense essential oil can gently aid in the healing of the brain because it increases the amount of oxygen that flows to the brain. With more oxygen, comes quicker and better healing.
When essential oils increase oxygen in the brain, the pineal and pituitary glands also benefit greatly. The extra oxygen promotes better memory and emotional releases.
Jasmine essential oil is one of the most popular oil used in aromatherapy. Its effects have been shown with great promise when treating depression. One study showed that it soothed nerves, increased confidence, and promoted optimism. It also restored energy and improved memory.
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These Essential Oils Are Great for Anxiety:
- Lavender
- Basil
- Clary Sage
- Frankincense
- Ylang-Ylang
These Essential Oils Are Great for Treating Depression:
- Bergamot
- Clary Sage
- Jasmine
- Lemon
- Mandarin
These Essential Oils Help With Stress Relief
- Geranium
- Lemon
- Sandalwood
- Roman Chamomile