Stressed? This 6,000 year old practice (Aromatherapy), might just be the solution you're looking for. Give these oils a try the next time you're having a rough day (and night).
Chamomile Essential Oil
Healing Solutions, $13.99
Chamomile, with it's distinct apple scent, is known as one of the gentlest essential oils and can be applied directly to the skin without causing irritation. Its soothing properties are perfect for calming the mind and relaxing the body after a long day. It can also help put you to sleep, if used before bed. Roman chamomile in particular can even help support a healthy immune system, reduce blood pressure, and relieve depression. Just apply a few drops to your palms, rub together, and inhale. Happy sleeping!
Lavender Essential Oil
Avo Essentials, $14.99
This aromatic flowering plant belongs to the mint family (surprised?). It's been used for over 2,500 years, particularly in the Mediterranean, Middle East and India, to reduce anxiety and induce sleep. The Romans, much like us, used lavender to scent their baths and beds in order to promote relaxation. It's the perfect oil for curing insomnia too: Studies on elderly patients have shown an increase in their sleep regularity when some lavender essential oil was placed on their pillows. Follow their lead and spread a few drops onto your pillow tonight, or massage some oil into your temples the next time you're feeling overwhelmed.
Vanilla Essential Oil
NOW Essential Oils, $24.99
The smell of sweet, warm vanilla instantly reminds us of baked goods and ice cream: Who wouldn't feel better after that? Vanilla's soothing properties make it ideal for people who are overly stressed: It lowers blood pressure, induces sleep, and relaxes the brain and nerves. It can even reduce inflammation from fevers and convulsions. Pretty cool, huh? To use, just add a few drops of vanilla essential oil to your bath water.
Jasmine Essential Oil
Aviano Botanicals, $49.95
This beautiful white flower produces a sensual scent that melts any tension in the body. Adored for it's gentle, uplifting smell, jasmine essential oil fights anxiety and depression. A study published in Natural Product Communications found that jasmine oil used during an eight-week period helped participants feel an improvement in their moods. Along with this, Jasmine also relaxes the body: It's frequently used in massage therapy for soothing muscles and joints. Used before bed, jasmine essential oil can also help promote a deep, restful sleep. Give it a try by closing your eyes and massaging a few drops into your face. Cover your face with your hands and take a deep breath: You'll forget the days troubles in no time.
