10 Best Herbal Essential Oils For Anxiety

Herbal essential oils, derived from plants through distillation or cold pressing, have been increasingly used for their calming effects on anxiety.

Commonly used oils such as lavender, chamomile, and bergamot are known for their ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress levels. These oils can be diffused, applied topically, or used in aromatherapy to support emotional well-being. Research suggests that the inhalation of these essential oils may influence the nervous system, helping to alleviate symptoms of anxiety.

While they are not a substitute for professional treatment, they can serve as a complementary tool in managing anxiety when used appropriately.

1. Valeriana officinalis

Valeriana officinalis, commonly known as valerian, is a herb widely used for its calming properties, and its essential oil has gained attention for its potential role in alleviating anxiety.

The essential oil is derived from the roots of the plant through steam distillation, capturing its aromatic compounds that are believed to have sedative and anxiolytic effects. Research suggests that the main constituents, such as valerenic acid and bisabolol, may interact with the central nervous system to reduce stress and promote relaxation. When used aromatically or in diluted topical applications, valerian essential oil is often reported to help ease symptoms of anxiety and improve sleep quality.

However, it is important to use it cautiously and consult with a healthcare professional, especially for those with sensitive skin or existing medical conditions.

2. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is widely recognized for its calming properties and is often used in the production of essential oils for managing anxiety.

The essential oil derived from this plant contains compounds such as linalool and linalyl acetate, which are known for their sedative and anxiolytic effects. Clinical studies suggest that inhaling lavender essential oil can reduce symptoms of anxiety and promote relaxation by influencing the central nervous system. It is frequently used in aromatherapy, massage, and diffusers to create a soothing environment.

Due to its natural and accessible nature, lavender essential oil is a popular choice for those seeking holistic approaches to stress and anxiety relief.

3. Melissa officinalis

Melissa officinalis, commonly known as lemon balm, is a popular herb used in the production of essential oils that are widely recognized for their calming properties.

The essential oil derived from Melissa officinalis is known to have a soothing effect on the nervous system, making it a natural remedy for managing anxiety. Studies suggest that the compound limonene in lemon balm essential oil may help reduce feelings of stress and promote relaxation by influencing neurotransmitter activity. When used in aromatherapy or diluted for topical application, this essential oil can help ease symptoms of anxiety and improve mood.

As a safe and natural alternative to conventional treatments, Melissa officinalis essential oil is increasingly being incorporated into holistic approaches for mental well-being.

4. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a popular herb whose essential oil has been widely studied for its potential benefits in reducing anxiety.

The oil contains bioactive compounds such as 1,8-cineole and camphor, which are believed to contribute to its calming and mood-enhancing effects. Research suggests that inhaling rosemary essential oil may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety by promoting relaxation and improving mental clarity. It is often used in aromatherapy practices to create a soothing environment and support emotional well-being.

However, while promising, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions.

5. Citrus sinensis

Citrus sinensis, commonly known as the sweet orange, is a source of valuable herbal essential oils that have been traditionally used for their calming and mood-enhancing properties.

The essential oil derived from the peel of the fruit contains compounds such as limonene, linalool, and myrcene, which are known to interact with the central nervous system to reduce stress and anxiety. Studies suggest that inhaling the aroma of sweet orange essential oil can promote relaxation, improve mood, and alleviate symptoms of anxiety by modulating neurotransmitter activity. This oil is often used in aromatherapy practices to create a soothing atmosphere and support emotional well-being.

Its gentle and uplifting nature makes it a popular choice for those seeking natural remedies to manage anxiety without the side effects of pharmaceutical treatments.

6. Piper nigrum

Piper nigrum, commonly known as black pepper, is not typically used for its essential oil in aromatherapy, but its related species, such as Piper longum, may be used in some traditional practices.

While there is limited scientific research on the use of black pepper essential oil for anxiety, some studies suggest that the compounds in related Piper species may have mild calming effects. The essential oil is often used in combination with other calming essential oils like lavender or chamomile to enhance its potential benefits. It is believed that the aromatic compounds in Piper nigrum may help reduce stress and promote relaxation by influencing the central nervous system.

However, due to the lack of extensive clinical trials, it is recommended to consult with a qualified aromatherapist or healthcare provider before using it for anxiety relief.

7. Cymbopogon citratus

Cymbopogon citratus, commonly known as lemon grass, is a widely used herb in traditional medicine for its calming effects.

The essential oil extracted from this plant contains compounds such as myrcene, citral, and geraniol, which are known for their anxiolytic properties. Studies have shown that inhaling or applying lemon grass essential oil can help reduce symptoms of anxiety by promoting relaxation and balancing mood. It is often used in aromatherapy and can be diluted with a carrier oil for topical application or added to diffusers for ambient relief.

Due to its natural and holistic approach, lemon grass essential oil is a popular choice for those seeking natural remedies for stress and anxiety.

8. Citrus aurantium

Citrus aurantium, commonly known as bitter orange, is a plant whose essential oils have been traditionally used for their calming and uplifting properties.

The essential oil derived from its flowers contains compounds like limonene and linalool, which are known for their potential anxiolytic effects. Studies suggest that inhaling or applying citrus aurantium essential oil may help reduce symptoms of anxiety by promoting relaxation and enhancing mood. It is often used in aromatherapy as a natural alternative to synthetic calming agents.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using it, especially for individuals with hypertension or those taking medications that may interact with its effects.

9. Piper methysticum

Piper methysticum, commonly known as kava, has been traditionally used for its calming effects and is now gaining attention for its potential benefits in managing anxiety.

The essential oils derived from the roots of the kava plant contain compounds such as kavalactones, which are believed to interact with the central nervous system to produce a soothing effect. These oils are often used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. While research is ongoing, preliminary studies suggest that kava essential oils may offer a natural alternative for those seeking relief from mild to moderate anxiety symptoms.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using kava essential oils, as they may interact with certain medications or have side effects in some individuals.

10. Cymbopogon martini

Cymbopogon martini, commonly known as lemon grass, is a popular herb whose essential oil is widely used for its calming and anxiolytic properties.

The essential oil contains compounds such as myrcene, citral, and geraniol, which contribute to its ability to reduce stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation and improving mood. Studies have shown that inhaling lemon grass essential oil can help lower cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress, thereby alleviating symptoms of anxiety. It is often used in aromatherapy sessions and can be diffused, applied topically, or used in massage to provide a soothing effect.

Due to its natural and safe profile, Cymbopogon martini essential oil is a favored choice for those seeking a holistic approach to managing anxiety.