10 best herbal essential oils for anxiety

Herbal essential oils for anxiety are natural extracts derived from plants, flowers, and herbs that have a profound impact on reducing anxiety symptoms.

These oils work by stimulating the brain's neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and GABA, which help regulate mood and calmness. For example, lavender oil has been shown to promote relaxation and reduce stress levels, while chamomile oil can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and insomnia.

By incorporating these herbal essential oils into daily routines through aromatherapy, massage, or inhalation, individuals can experience reduced anxiety and improved overall well-being, ultimately leading to a better quality of life.

The following article describes in detail the most important essential oils for anxiety, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender essential oils helps with anxiety because its calming and soothing properties can promote relaxation and reduce stress levels.

The sweet, floral scent of lavender oil has been shown to slow down heart rate and lower blood pressure, calming the nervous system and quieting a racing mind.

By reducing feelings of anxiety and promoting a sense of calm, English lavender essential oils can help individuals cope with everyday worries and improve their overall mental well-being.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in english lavender essential oils that aid with anxiety.

• Anxiolytic (calming) effects: The calming compounds in Lavender oil, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, can help reduce anxiety by promoting relaxation and decreasing stress levels.
• Sedative properties: Lavender oil's sedative effects can help slow down brain activity, reducing feelings of overwhelm, nervousness, and agitation that often accompany anxiety.
• Antidepressant properties: The antidepressant compounds in Lavender oil may help reduce symptoms of depression, which are closely linked to anxiety, by increasing the production of serotonin and other neurotransmitters that regulate mood.

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make essential oils for anxiety.

• Roots: The roots are used due to their ability to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, as they contain a high concentration of calming compounds like apigenin.
• Leaves: Lavender leaves are used because they possess a unique composition of volatile compounds that can help soothe the nervous system, alleviating symptoms of anxiety.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for anxiety.

1. Harvest dried lavender flowers at dawn when fragrant oil content is highest for maximum potency.
2. Steam distill the harvested lavender flowers using a clevenger apparatus at 100°c temperature for 2 hours.
3. Collect and filter the obtained essential oil from steam distillation process into dark glass containers immediately.
4. Blend 10% lavandula angustifolia essential oil with 90% carrier oil such as sweet almond oil or coconut oil in a ratio.
5. Allow the blended mixture to mature for at least 24 hours before use or further processing.

2. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm essential oils helps with anxiety because of its calming and soothing properties.

The oil contains a compound called rosmarinic acid, which has been shown to possess anxiolytic properties, reducing feelings of stress and tension. Additionally, the sweet and citrusy aroma of lemon balm can help to calm the mind and promote relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.

Regular use of lemon balm essential oil can also help to reduce symptoms of anxiety disorders over time.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemon balm essential oils that aid with anxiety.

• Antioxidant properties: Herbal lemon balm essential oil contains antioxidants that help protect against oxidative stress, which is a known contributor to anxiety and related mood disorders.
• Adaptogenic properties: The essential oil has adaptogenic compounds that help the body respond to stress and promote balance in the nervous system, reducing feelings of anxiety and promoting relaxation.
• Gaba-ergic effects: Lemon balm essential oil contains compounds that interact with GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter that helps regulate calmness and relaxation, which can help alleviate anxiety symptoms by promoting a sense of calm and reducing nervous tension.

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make essential oils for anxiety.

• Roots: The roots of the lemon balm plant are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which help to calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety.
• Flowers: Lemon balm flowers contain a high concentration of rosmarinic acid, a potent natural anxiolytic that helps to soothe anxiety and stress.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for anxiety.

1. Harvest high-quality melissa officinalis leaves at dawn or late afternoon to ensure optimal oil content.
2. Dry the harvested leaves in a warm, dark place for 7-10 days to reduce moisture levels to around 10%.
3. Steam distill the dried melissa officinalis leaves using a still with a 1:1 leaf-to-water ratio and a 4-hour processing time.
4. Collect the resulting essential oil by filtering it through a coffee filter or cheesecloth into dark glass bottles, storing them in a cool place to preserve quality.
5. Use the freshly produced melissa officinalis essential oil immediately or store it for up to 6 months in an airtight container away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

3. Valeriana officinalis

Valerian essential oils helps with anxiety because of its calming and sedative properties, which help to reduce feelings of worry and stress.

The oil contains valerenic acid, a compound that interacts with the brain's neurotransmitters to promote relaxation and calmness. When inhaled, it can slow down the body's natural response to stressors, allowing individuals to feel more grounded and centered.

Additionally, its sweet, earthy aroma can help to distract from racing thoughts and promote a sense of tranquility, making it an effective natural remedy for anxiety relief.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in valerian essential oils that aid with anxiety.

• Anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties: Valerian oil has been shown to possess anxiolytic properties, which help to calm the mind and body, reducing feelings of anxiety and stress.
• Sedative properties: The sedative properties of valerian oil can help to promote relaxation, improve sleep quality, and reduce restlessness, which are all common symptoms of anxiety.
• Muscle relaxant properties: Valerian oil's muscle relaxant properties can help to relieve physical tension and stiffness associated with anxiety, promoting a sense of calm and reducing overall discomfort.

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make essential oils for anxiety.

• Roots: The roots of the valerian plant are rich in sesquiterpenes, which have a calming effect on the nervous system and can help alleviate anxiety.
• Rhyzomes: Valerian rhyzomes contain valerenic acid, a key compound responsible for the sedative properties that can be used to treat anxiety.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for anxiety.

1. Harvest high-quality fresh valeriana officinalis roots for optimal potency and aroma.
2. Cleanse the harvested roots by rinsing them thoroughly with distilled water to remove dirt and impurities.
3. Dry the cleaned roots in a warm and well-ventilated area at 60°f to 70°f for 7 to 10 days.
4. Steam distill the dried valeriana officinalis roots using 2% of the root material and 98% of distilled water for 2 hours.
5. Filter the resulting essential oil through a coffee filter or paper towel to remove any impurities.

4. Passiflora incarnata

Maypop essential oils helps with anxiety because of its unique ability to calm the mind and body.

The oil's potent combination of sedative and analgesic properties works to reduce feelings of worry, fear, and apprehension. It also helps to regulate the nervous system, promoting a sense of relaxation and tranquility. Additionally, maypop essential oils' calming aroma can help to quiet the mind, making it easier to focus and sleep.

By using maypop essential oils in aromatherapy or topical application, individuals can experience a natural and effective reduction in anxiety symptoms.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in maypop essential oils that aid with anxiety.

• Sedative and calming: Maypop essential oil has a sedative effect on the nervous system, which helps to calm anxiety and promote relaxation.
• Anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory: The anxiolytic properties of Maypop essential oil help to reduce feelings of anxiety and fear, while its anti-inflammatory effects can alleviate physical symptoms associated with anxiety such as headaches and muscle tension.
• Adaptogenic and stress-relieving: Maypop essential oil is an adaptogen that helps the body cope with stress and promotes a sense of balance and well-being, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing anxiety.

The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make essential oils for anxiety.

• Roots: Maypop roots have a calming effect and are often used in essential oils to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
• Seeds: The seeds of the maypop plant contain a high concentration of fatty acids, which help to soothe nervous tension and calm the mind.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for anxiety.

1. Harvest fresh passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves in the early morning after the dew has dried.
2. Dry the harvested plant material using a warm air circulation method at 30-40°c for 24 hours.
3. Place the dried plant material into a stainless steel distillation apparatus with 200ml of distilled water and steam-distill for 4 hours.
4. Collect the essential oil as it separates from the distillate and store it in a dark glass bottle at room temperature.
5. Use the essential oil immediately or mix it with a carrier oil like jojoba at a ratio of 1:50 for topical application.

5. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile essential oils helps with anxiety because it contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to GABA receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

Its calming scent can slow down heart rate and blood pressure, while also lowering cortisol levels.

Additionally, chamomile oil's natural soothing properties help quiet the mind, allowing individuals to let go of worries and feel more centered, making it an effective natural remedy for managing anxiety and promoting a sense of calmness.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile essential oils that aid with anxiety.

• Apigenin: A flavonoid compound that binds to GABA receptors, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety symptoms by slowing down the brain's activity.
• Chamazulene: A sesquiterpene lactone that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate stress-induced inflammation in the body, contributing to feelings of anxiety and calmness.
• Bisabolol: A sesquiterpene compound with anti-spasmodic and anti-anxiety effects, helping to soothe and calm the nervous system, reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation.

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make essential oils for anxiety.

• Flowers: The flowers of the chamomile plant contain a high concentration of apigenin, an anti-anxiety compound that interacts with GABA receptors in the brain.
• Roots: The roots of the chamomile plant have been traditionally used to calm nervousness and promote relaxation due to their rich content of calcium and magnesium.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for anxiety.

1. Harvest fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers on a sunny morning after the dew has evaporated using scissors.
2. Dry the harvested flowers in a warm ventilated area away from direct sunlight for 7-10 days or until completely dry using wire racks.
3. Combine 100g of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers with 500ml of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil in a glass jar with lid.
4. Leave the mixture to steep for 2 weeks at room temperature shaking the jar daily to infuse the oils.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth into another clean container discarding the solids and store the infused oil in dark glass bottles for future use.

6. Citrus x aurantium

Bitter orange essential oils helps with anxiety because it contains compounds that have a calming and relaxing effect on the mind and body.

The scent of bitter orange oil has been shown to reduce stress and promote feelings of calmness, helping to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Additionally, its ability to regulate mood and emotions can help individuals cope better with stressful situations, leading to a more balanced emotional state.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in bitter orange essential oils that aid with anxiety.

• Citral: Citral has a sedative effect on the nervous system, which can help to calm anxiety and promote relaxation by reducing nervous activity.
• Limonene: Limonene has anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties and can help to alleviate feelings of stress and anxiety by interacting with GABA receptors in the brain.
• Vitamin c: Vitamin C, present in bitter orange essential oil, is a natural antioxidant that can help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can contribute to anxiety disorders.

The list below shows the primary parts of bitter orange used to make essential oils for anxiety.

• Roots: Rich in flavonoids and limonoids, which have been shown to possess anxiolytic properties, making them a popular choice for calming and soothing essential oil blends.
• Seeds: Containing high amounts of sesquiterpenes and other compounds, bitter orange seeds are believed to help reduce anxiety and stress by promoting relaxation and calming the mind.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bitter orange for anxiety.

1. Harvest citrus x aurantium peels from fresh organic fruits in quantities of approximately 500 grams.
2. Dry the harvested peels using a food dehydrator set at 50 degrees celsius for 24 hours.
3. Steam distill the dried peels in a stainless steel still with distilled water at a ratio of 1:5 for 4 hours.
4. Collect and filter the resulting essential oil through a paper coffee filter into dark glass bottles.
5. Store the citrus x aurantium essential oil in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months prior to use.

7. Cymbopogon citratus

Lemongrass essential oils helps with anxiety because of its calming and soothing properties.

The oil's citrusy aroma has a direct impact on the nervous system, reducing feelings of tension and stress. It also possesses natural mood-boosting compounds that help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.

When inhaled or applied topically, lemongrass essential oils promote relaxation, ease muscle cramps and spasms, and calm the mind, making it an effective natural remedy for managing anxiety and promoting overall well-being.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemongrass essential oils that aid with anxiety.

• Citral: Citral, a key component of lemongrass essential oil, has been shown to have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects by inhibiting the production of stress hormones and promoting relaxation.
• Geraniol: Geraniol, another major constituent of lemongrass essential oil, has been found to possess sedative properties, which can help alleviate anxiety symptoms such as insomnia and restlessness.
• Beta-caryophyllene: Beta-caryophyllene, a sesquiterpene present in lemongrass essential oil, has been shown to have anxiolytic effects by interacting with the brain's serotonin system, which helps regulate mood and emotional response.

The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make essential oils for anxiety.

• Roots: The roots of lemongrass contain a high concentration of sesquiterpenes, which are known for their calming and sedative effects, making them suitable for reducing anxiety symptoms.
• Rhyzomes: Lemongrass rhyzomes have been traditionally used to treat nervous disorders and anxiety due to the presence of citral, a natural antidepressant compound.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for anxiety.

1. Harvest fresh lemongrass stalks from a pesticide-free field or your own garden weighing approximately 2-3 pounds.
2. Wash the harvested lemongrass stalks thoroughly in cold running water and gently scrub them with a soft-bristled brush.
3. Dry the washed lemongrass stalks using a food dehydrator set at 135°f for 24 hours or by spreading them out in a single layer on paper towels.
4. Steam-distill the dried lemongrass stalks using a still or distillation apparatus with a yield of approximately 10-15% essential oil.
5. Store the extracted cymbopogon citratus essential oils in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids and keep them refrigerated for up to six months.

8. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint essential oils helps with anxiety because of its calming and focusing properties.

The menthol content in peppermint oil has a soothing effect on the mind, reducing feelings of overwhelm and stress. Its ability to improve concentration and mental clarity also helps individuals stay focused and composed during anxious moments.

Additionally, inhaling peppermint oil's refreshing aroma can stimulate a sense of calmness and tranquility, promoting relaxation and alleviating symptoms of anxiety.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint essential oils that aid with anxiety.

• Anti-anxiety and calming effects: Peppermint essential oil has a calming effect on the nervous system, which helps to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation by decreasing cortisol levels.
• Pain relief and tension reduction: Peppermint essential oil's analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties help to alleviate headaches, migraines, and muscle tension caused by anxiety, reducing overall stress and promoting feelings of calmness.
• Mood enhancement and mood stabilizer: The menthol content in peppermint essential oil has a uplifting effect on the mind and body, helping to improve mood, reduce irritability, and promote a sense of well-being, which can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety.

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make essential oils for anxiety.

• Roots: The roots of the peppermint plant contain a high concentration of menthol, which has been shown to have calming and soothing properties, making it effective in reducing anxiety.
• Leaves: Peppermint leaves are rich in menthone, a compound that has a calming effect on the nervous system, helping to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and stress.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for anxiety.

1. Harvest fresh peppermint leaves from organic farms or your garden ensuring at least 2 pounds of leaves for extraction.
2. Dry the harvested peppermint leaves in a single layer on paper towels or a wire rack within 24 hours.
3. Combine dried peppermint leaves with carrier oil such as sweet almond or coconut oil at a ratio of 1 part peppermint to 3 parts carrier oil.
4. Steam distill the peppermint and carrier oil mixture for approximately 2-3 hours extracting essential oils and releasing natural compounds.
5. Filter and decant the resulting essential oil blend into dark glass bottles within an hour of extraction preserving freshness and potency.

9. Eucalyptus globulus

Tasmanian blue gum essential oils helps with anxiety because of its unique composition, which includes sesquiterpenes that have a calming effect on the nervous system.

These compounds work to reduce feelings of stress and tension, promoting relaxation and serenity. Additionally, the oil's citrusy scent can help uplift and calm the mind, reducing racing thoughts and worries associated with anxiety.

By inhaling Tasmanian blue gum essential oil, individuals can experience a sense of peacefulness and tranquility, making it an effective natural remedy for managing anxiety.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in tasmanian blue gum essential oils that aid with anxiety.

• Sesquiterpenoids: Tasmanian Blue Gum essential oil contains high levels of sesquiterpenoids, which have been shown to have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects by interacting with the brain's neurotransmitters and promoting relaxation.
• Borneol: Borneol is a constituent of Tasmanian Blue Gum essential oil that has been found to exhibit sedative and calming effects, making it useful for reducing anxiety and promoting feelings of calmness.
• Citronellal: Citronellal, another component of Tasmanian Blue Gum essential oil, has been shown to have a relaxing effect on the nervous system, which can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety such as restlessness and irritability.

The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make essential oils for anxiety.

• Roots: The roots contain a high concentration of bioactive compounds that have been shown to possess anxiolytic properties, making them ideal for creating a calming and soothing essential oil.
• Barks: The barks of the Tasmanian Blue Gum plant are rich in flavonoids and terpenes, which can help to reduce anxiety and stress by promoting relaxation and tranquility.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for anxiety.

1. Harvest fresh eucalyptus globulus leaves in the morning for maximum oil content.
2. Dry the harvested leaves using a food dehydrator at 60°c for 6 hours.
3. Crush dried eucalyptus globulus leaves into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Steam distill the powdered eucalyptus globulus in a 1:5 ratio with distilled water for 2 hours.
5. Filter the resulting essential oil through a coffee filter paper to remove impurities and store in dark glass bottles.

10. Silybum marianum

Milk thistle essential oils helps with anxiety because of its unique composition, which includes flavonoids and silymarin compounds.

These potent bioactive agents work together to promote a sense of calmness and relaxation, soothing the mind and body. The oil's anti-inflammatory properties also help reduce cortisol levels, further alleviating feelings of stress and worry.

By incorporating milk thistle essential oils into one's daily routine, individuals can experience a natural and holistic approach to managing anxiety, promoting overall well-being and peace of mind.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in milk thistle essential oils that aid with anxiety.

• Anti-anxiety compounds: Milk Thistle Essential Oil contains a significant amount of flavonoids, lignans, and saponins, which have been shown to possess anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects, helping to calm the mind and body.
• Adaptogenic properties: The oil has adaptogenic properties that help the body adapt to stress and anxiety by regulating cortisol levels, promoting relaxation, and improving mood stability.
• Sedative and calming effects: Milk Thistle Essential Oil's sedative and calming effects are attributed to its ability to interact with GABA receptors in the brain, which helps regulate sleep, reduces anxiety and stress, and promotes feelings of calmness.

The list below shows the primary parts of milk thistle used to make essential oils for anxiety.

• Roots: The roots of the milk thistle plant contain silymarin, a flavonoid compound that has been shown to have anxiolytic properties, making it effective in reducing anxiety symptoms.
• Seeds: Milk thistle seeds are rich in unsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants, which can help to calm the nervous system and reduce stress-related anxiety.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic milk thistle for anxiety.

1. Harvest fresh silybum marianum seeds and clean them thoroughly with distilled water.
2. Steam distill the cleaned seeds in a double boiler with 10g of seeds and 100ml of distilled water.
3. Collect the essential oil that is obtained after distillation and separate it from the floral water.
4. Store the extracted essential oil in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids and label them properly.
5. Allow the essential oil to mature for at least 2 weeks before using it for anxiety relief.

How to best treat anxiety with herbal essential oils?

The best way to treat anxiety with herbal essential oils is by blending calming and relaxing botanicals.

Lavender oil's tranquil properties help calm racing thoughts, while Bergamot oil's citrus scent uplifts mood and reduces stress. Combine them with Frankincense oil, which soothes the mind and body.

Apply topically to pulse points or diffuse in the air for a peaceful atmosphere, promoting a sense of calmness and reducing anxiety symptoms naturally.

What ailments similar to anxiety are treated with herbal essential oils?

Ailments similar to anxiety that are treated with herbal essential oils are stress, insomnia, and depression.

Lavender oil is often used to calm the mind and body, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety symptoms. Bergamot oil has a calming effect on the nervous system, while Frankincense oil helps reduce inflammation and promotes emotional balance.

Other herbs like chamomile, lemon balm, and ylang-ylang are also commonly used to alleviate anxiety-like symptoms.