Essential oils (EOs) influence the mind and nervous system in five main directions:
Stimulation, Relaxation, Adaptogenic action, Harmonization, Emotional stabilization.
Let's dive into each direction and see how different oils can help
Stimulation
Stimulants give your nervous system a boost, making you more alert, focused, and mentally sharp. They can uplift your mood and increase productivity. All EOs have a stimulating effect, ranging from mild to strong.
Stimulant oils: Angelica, Bitter Orange, Basil, Clove, Geranium, Grapefruit, Ginger, Cassia, Cypress, Clementine, Coriander, Cinnamon, Turmeric, Lime, Lemongrass, Lemon, Litsea Cubeba, Pink Pepper, Black Pepper, Rosemary, Celery, Caraway, Black Cumin
Emotional Stabilization
These oils help stabilize your emotions, making them ideal for times of emotional instability or mood swings. They provide a calming influence and help maintain a steady emotional state.
Emotion stabilizing oils: Sweet Orange, Marigold, Vanilla, Verbena, Jasmine, Bay Laurel, Magnolia, Neroli, Palmarosa, Petitgrain, Rose, Thyme, Tuberose, Thuja, Frangipani, Champaca
Relaxation
Relaxants help you unwind, reduce mental and physical tension, and promote calmness. They can have sedative or sleep-inducing effects. All EOs have relaxing properties to varying degrees.
Relaxant oils: Calamus, Anise, Helichrysum, Valerian, Vetiver, Green Mandarin, Ylang-Ylang, Catnip, Lavender, Marjoram, Mandarin, Melissa, Nutmeg, Oregano, Osmanthus, Patchouli, Rosewood, Chamomile, Rue, Yarrow, Fennel, Citronella, Sage
Adaptation
Adaptogenic oils help you cope with stress, adapt to new situations, and improve overall well-being. They support the nervous system and help regulate bodily functions during stress.
Adaptogen oils: Bergamot, Birch, Bay, Geranium, Grapefruit, Wintergreen, Oakmoss, White Fir, Camphor, Cardamom, Cajeput, Cedarwood, Cilantro, Cypress, Bay Laurel, Lemon, Litsea Cubeba, Manuka, Myrtle, Juniper, Carrot, Nutmeg, Peppermint, Spearmint, Niaouli, Palmarosa, Douglas Fir, Siberian Fir, Sweet Wormwood, Ravintsara, Rosemary, Pine, Hinoki, Tea Tree, Black Spruce, Lemon Eucalyptus
Harmonization
These oils bring balance to your mental state, acting as stimulants, relaxants, and adaptogens all at once. They help harmonize your psychological processes and restore inner peace.
Harmonizer oils: Benzoin, Holy Vitex, Blue Tansy, Davana, Iris, Hyssop, Copaiba, Frankincense, Blue Lotus, Pink Lotus, Mimosa, Myrrh, Nard, Palo Santo, Peru Balsam, Sandalwood, Tulsi (Holy Basil), Agarwood
Understanding Your Needs
Need for Stimulation
High need here indicates your nervous system is worn out from prolonged stress.
You might feel "in the zone," but struggle with clear thinking and adequate rest.
Chronic fatigue syndrome can develop, needing mental correction and antiviral therapy.
Need for Emotional Stabilization
High need often seen with hormonal imbalances like PMS or menopause.
Might be linked to personality types prone to emotional outbursts or high-stress jobs.
Emotional instability can result from major stress or trauma.
Need for Relaxation
High need signals a requirement for rest and recovery.
Mental fatigue is prominent, while physical fatigue is usually manageable with sleep and nutrition. Regular rest and new, refreshing experiences are crucial.
Need for Adaptation
High need points to significant stress, living in uncomfortable conditions.
Long-term exposure to such environments can deteriorate mental health and disrupt bodily functions, leading to diseases and immune issues.
Identify the primary source of stress, whether at home or work.
Need for Harmonization
High need means your inner stability is disrupted, often from stress or fatigue.
Not a critical issue but indicates a need for some downtime and self-care.
Aromatherapy and shifting activities can help regain balance.
Incorporate these essential oils into your routine based on your current needs to promote mental and emotional well-being. Experiment with different combinations to find what works best for you, and remember to take time for self-care.
