My favorite thing to use my oils for, other than fun DIY’s, is for emotional support. I personally struggle with anxiety and depression. I have been able to use my oils as a tool to help! Let me get a little scientific for a second.
The limbic system is a small part of the brain that deals with memories, emotions and stimulations. Essential oils largely affect the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, which once stimulated release hormones into the body.
So if we inhale essential oils with a stimulating properties it will produce a response in the appropriate part of the limbic system. For example lavender essential oil can have a positive effect on your sleep, by relaxing your muscles and allowing you to fall asleep easier, this is a decision made by your body in the limbic system once you’ve inhaled lavender essential oil vapors.
Through that, I have been able to use oils, my favorite emotional support oil being frankincense, to help create a positive response in my brain. So when I need a dose of grounding, I grab my oils!
Whether, you have mental illness issues or not, this same process works with everyday stress, sleep needs, or even a toddler tantrum (Rachel note – lookin @ you mama’s!)