The "big three" essential oils in terns of investigation performed on the psychological/emotional effects are lavender, bergamot and sandalwood. Each of these oils has been the subject of a number of controlled studies. The results of each is distinct; at the same time, they've all demonstrated statistically significant results in controlled studies relating to anxiety reduction.
We all know about lavender -- it's aromatherapy's most commonly-used essential oil, with an incredible array of behavior. It, definitely, has the greatest amount of research supporting its stress-reducing effects. Interestingly, it's physiological results are similar to its psychological effects: it's calming and soothing to the skin, as it is calming and soothing to the mind. Of the three oils here, lavender has the most sedative action. It directly supports sleep, reduces aggression, and lessens anxiousness.
In research, lavender's actions result both from inhalation and ingestion. A just recently published series of studies showed daily ingestion of a slow-release capsule containing 80mg of lavender essential oil was proven as effective as benchmark sedative pharmaceutical drugs.
Sandalwood has similar, but not precisely the same, actions as lavender. Sandalwood is an excellent stress reliever without being sedative. Lavender actually slows response time, where sandalwood does not. One study's participants inhaling sandalwood disclosed feeling greater clarity and relaxation -- being more grounded and centered. Another study showed inhaled sandalwood to improve the sleep/wake cycle, resulting in deeper, more effective rest.
Bergamot is the most popular anti-depressant essential oil, most often being employed as an aromatic rather than being ingested or even topically applied. One study of adolescents wearing aromatherapy amulets showed a statistically significant reduction of stress and depression pertaining to controls. Bergamot oil is also known to reduce one's perceived level of pain. Finally, it is not a sedative or sleep enhancer, but rather a stimulant, though it may secondarily support better rest through a healthier psycho-emotional state.
The question is frequently asked by beginning aromatherapy professionals: "what oil should I use for depression or anxiety"? These oils are the place to start. One needs to be willing to research to see what works best for them. Get a sample of each of these oils and see how you respond to their scents -- you have to like the aroma for you to use an oil consistently for anxiety reduction and stress relief. Lavender has been noted to be more appreciated by women, and sandalwood is considered a somewhat more "masculine" aroma -- however certainly this shouldn't prevent either gender from trying both oils.
Use of the oils to get stress reduction is very, very flexible. The first choice for using bergamot is in an aromatherapy diffuser of any type. Lavender and sandalwood are frequently topically applied, in addition to diffuser use. The idea being that you should find the oil AND the method that works for you by experimenting with all the possibilities -- the science says that one of these is highly likely to make living a little easier for you.
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