DIY Essential Oil Blends for Relaxation and Stress Relief
Life can get a bit hectic, right? Whether it’s the hustle and bustle of work, the demands of daily chores, or just the general chaos of the world, we all need a break now and then. And what better way to kick back, relax, and let the stress melt away than with the enchanting world of essential oils?
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts capturing the essence and aroma of a plant.
Now, don’t be fooled by their name – these oils aren’t your typical cooking oils. Nope, they are potent and pack a punch regarding aroma and benefits. From lavender to eucalyptus, tea tree to citrus blends, the variety is mind-blowing. And the best part? They are not just about making things smell good (although they do a fantastic job). Essential oils have been used for centuries for their therapeutic properties.
Now that we have your interest, you are probably wondering, “How do I get my hands on these little bottles of goodness?” Fear not, our aromatic apprentice, for we are about to reveal the secret to dipping your toes in the world of essential oils.
The Essential Oils Starter Kit
Start your journey with a well-curated essential oil starter kit. These usually include a variety of oils like lavender, peppermint, tea tree, lemon, lime, and more, including a diffuser. It’s like a box of magic potions waiting to be unleashed.
Top 8 Essential Oils for Stress Relief
A Love Affair with Lavender
Lavender is the rockstar of relaxation. This little purple powerhouse is like a spa day in a bottle. Known for its calming properties, lavender oil is your go-to companion when you need to unwind after a hectic day.
When you inhale the sweet lavender scent, it stimulates the olfactory system, aka your sense of smell. This triggers a chain reaction in your brain, releasing feel-good neurotransmitters like serotonin and calming the nervous system.
But it doesn’t stop there. According to a study published in the Journal of Hindawi, lavender oil contains compounds like linalool and linalyl acetate, which have been shown to have relaxing and anti-anxiety effects.
The Bottle of Sunshine – Citrus
Feeling a bit down? Let the zesty burst of orange, the tangy embrace of lemon, or the uplifting grapefruit vibes envelop you in their citrusy, relaxing magic. Their bright, cheerful scents can lift your mood immediately.
Citrus essential oils contain compounds like limonene and linalool, known for their stress-busting and mood-enhancing properties. According to a study published in the Journal of Antioxidants, the brain does not absorb limonene fully when you inhale the aroma of a citrus essential oil. As a result, the lingering scent works as an antidepressant. So, when life gives you lemons, make some citrus essential oil and wave stress goodbye!
Revive Yourself with the Freshness of Mint
Need a pick-me-up? Peppermint oil is your best friend. It’s like a breath of fresh air, quite literally. Inhaling the refreshing aroma of peppermint can boost your energy levels and help you power through those moments of stress-induced fatigue.
Peppermint has tranquilizing and analgesic effects. According to a study published in the Journal of Pain Research, peppermint contains menthol, which affects the Kappa Opioid receptors. These increase the cells’ stimulation threshold and decrease synoptic transmissions and stimulations, which soothe pain.
Pro Tip: A dab on your temples can work wonders!
The Chill Zone Created by Chamomile
Chamomile is renowned for its calming effects, making it a fantastic choice for winding down before bedtime or whenever stress comes knocking.
So, how does chamomile oil work its magic? The secret lies in its chemical composition, which includes compounds like bisabolol, chamazulene, and apigenin. These elements fight stress and bring peace to your mind.
According to a study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research, chamomile increases cortisol levels, which reduces anxiety symptoms.
Elevate Your Mood with Eucalyptus
Stuffy nose, meet your match – eucalyptus oil. But it’s not just for colds. It is also a fantastic stress reliever. The cool, refreshing aroma of eucalyptus can clear your mind and ease tension.
The star of eucalyptus’s chemical composition is undoubtedly 1,8-cineole, also known as eucalyptol. This compound brings a refreshing and invigorating aroma that helps clear your mind faster than any topical ointment. According to a study published in the Journal of Hindawi, inhaling cineole has been linked to reduced mental fatigue and increased alertness – a perfect combo for tackling stress head-on.
The Magic of Frankincense
Frankincense has been used for centuries for its grounding and spiritually uplifting properties. It helps you find your center amidst the chaos. The aromatic resin is obtained from trees of the Boswellia genus, particularly Boswellia sacra.
According to a collection of studies published in the Journal of Plants, frankincense boasts an impressive lineup of monoterpene compounds, with limonene and α-pinene taking center stage. Limonene, also found in citrus fruits, contributes to the oil’s citrusy scent and possesses potential stress-relieving properties. On the other hand, α-pinene, which is also found in pine trees, has anti-inflammatory and calming effects, making it a natural ally in the battle against stress.
A study published in The Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology Journal concluded that incensole acetate in frankincense influences brain areas associated with emotions, making it a fascinating player in the stress relief game.
The Passion-Filled Aroma of Patchouli
This earthy, musky oil has a unique charm that either transports you to a hippie haven or a tranquil forest – take your pick. Its grounding properties make it a valuable ally when feeling scattered and stressed.
According to a study published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, patchouli contains pogostol, a sesquiterpene that has been linked to anti-anxiety effects.
The Exoticness of Ylang-Ylang
Ylang-ylang not only has a name that’s fun to say but also boasts powerful relaxation benefits.
It boasts a significant amount of linalool, a compound celebrated for its stress-relieving and calming effects. According to a study published in the Journal of Current Neuropharmacology, this compound gives ylang-ylang a harmonizing effect, which works as an antidepressant.
Ever wonder why ylang-ylang has that sweet scent? Thank geranyl acetate for that. This compound not only contributes to its floral essence but also brings its own set of calming vibes. It also contains benzyl acetate, which gives it sedative properties, making it an excellent choice when you want to unwind after a tiring day at work.
10 DIY Essential Oil Recipes for Stress Relief
Serene Citrus Bliss
Ingredients
- Sweet Orange Essential Oil: 10 drops
- Bergamot Essential Oil: 5 drops
- Lemon Essential Oil: 5 drops
- Carrier Oil (Sweet Almond or Jojoba): 2 tablespoons
This citrusy blend is like a burst of sunshine for your senses. Mix the essential oils with the carrier oil in a small roller bottle and apply it to your pulse points. The cheerful aroma will instantly lift your spirits.
Lavender Stress Relief Potion
Ingredients
- Lavender Essential Oil: 12 drops
- Chamomile Essential Oil: 3 drops
- Fractionated Coconut Oil: 2 tablespoons
Combine the soothing properties of chamomile and lavender, and you have got yourself a love potion for tranquility. Mix these essential oils with coconut oil in a roller bottle, and roll it on your wrists or temples before bedtime. Sweet dreams and stress-free nights await!
Minty Fresh Calm
Ingredients
- Peppermint Essential Oil: 8 drops
- Eucalyptus Essential Oil: 6 drops
- Spearmint Essential Oil: 4 drops
- Grapeseed Oil: 1 tablespoon
Need a quick mental refresh? This minty blend is like a breath of fresh air. Mix the oils with grapeseed oil in a small bowl, and add it to your diffuser. The invigorating aroma will clear your mind and create a peaceful atmosphere in no time.
Decompress with Frankincense
Ingredients
- Frankincense Essential Oil: 2 drops
- Cedarwood Essential Oil: 1 drop
- Pine Essential Oil: 1 drop
- Coconut Oil: 1 drop
Inhalation of Frankincense essential oil is thought to have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects. So, make your potion and add it to the diffuser. Dim the lights, throw on your favorite chill tunes, and create an atmosphere that’s practically begging stress to take a hike.
Have a Good Night’s Sleep with Eucalyptus
Ingredients
- Distilled Water: 1 cup
- Witch Hazel: 2 tablespoons
- Eucalyptus Essential Oil: 30 drops
Who doesn’t love crawling into a bed that smells like a serene forest? Enter the eucalyptus linen spray, your ticket to dreamland. Mix distilled water with witch hazel in a spray bottle. Add the eucalyptus essential oil. Shake well before each use and lightly mist your pillow and sheets before bedtime.
The calming scent of eucalyptus will not only help you relax but might also transport you to a peaceful grove in your dreams.
The Soothing Blend of Lavender and Lemon
Ingredients
- Lemon Essential Oil: 25 drops (You can also use orange, lime or grapefruit essential oil)
- Lavender Essential Oil: 10 drops
- Rosemary: 10 drops
- Coconut Oil: 1 ½ tablespoons
You can use this mixture in three ways to relieve stress.
- Combine the three essential oils in a clear glass bottle and add six drops of it into a diffuser.
- If you using an essential oil necklace, add three dops of oil in the pendant.
- If you plan to apply it on your skin, add coconut oil to the essential oil mixture and pour it in a roll-on container.
What is an Essential Oil Necklace?
Essential oil necklaces come in various designs, including small containers, such as vials, pendants and lockets. These are made from different materials like clay, wood, stainless steel, or sterling silver. The pendant contains a small, replaceable pad made from materials like felt, cotton, or lava stone. This material absorbs and retains the essential oil, allowing for slow and controlled diffusion.
Just Be Happy with Frankincense
Ingredients
- Frankincense Essential Oil: 2 drops
- Bergamot Essential Oil: 2 drops
- Orange Essential Oil: 2 drops
Start your day on a positive note by incorporating frankincense into your morning routine. Add a few drops of the mixture to your diffuser. As the fragrance fills the room, you will experience a sense of tranquility. Consider diluting it with coconut oil to let the diffuser run for hours.
Patchouli’s Zen Garden
Ingredients
- Sandalwood Essential Oil: 7 drops
- Patchouli Essential Oil: 5 drops
- Cedarwood Essential Oil: 3 drops
- Frankincense Essential Oil: 2 drops
- Jojoba Oil: 2 tablespoons
Create your own mini Zen Garden with this grounding roller blend. Combine the essential oils with jojoba oil in a roller bottle, and roll it on your wrists or the back of your neck. The earthy scents will transport you to a serene oasis, helping you find your inner calm.
Soak in a Luxurious Bath with Ylang-Ylang
Ingredients
- Epsom Salt: 1 cup
- Sea Salt: ½ cup
- Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil: 10 drops
- Lavender Essential Oil (optional): 5 drops
- Baking Soda: ¼ cup
Mix the ingredients in a bowl, ensuring an even distribution of the oils. Store in a glass jar, and add a handful to your bath for a fragrant and relaxing experience.
Have a Spa-Like Experience with Eucalyptus
Ingredients
- Baking Soda: 1 cup
- Water: ½ cup
- Eucalyptus Essential Oil: 20 drops
- Citric Acid: ½ cup
Let’s make some eucalyptus shower bombs for those days when you need an extra boost or evenings when you want to wash away the day’s stress. In a bowl, mix the citric acid and baking soda. Slowly add water to the dry mixture, stirring continuously. Add the eucalyptus essential oil and mix until the consistency is similar to wet sand. Pack the mixture into small silicone molds and let it dry for at least 24 hours.
Final Word
It’s clear that these aromatic wonders can truly make a positive impact on our well-being. We have explored the soothing scents of lavender, the uplifting vibes of citrus oils, the calming effects of chamomile, and more in their quest for relieving stress.
So, the next time stress comes knocking at your door, consider reaching for a bottle of your favorite essential oil. Whether you prefer to diffuse it, mix it with a carrier oil for a massage, or make a bath bomb, the possibilities are endless, and so are the benefits.
Are you ready to elevate your daily rituals into moments of pure indulgence? At Maverick Oils, we take pride in sourcing the finest botanicals from around the globe to create our exceptional range of essential oils. Our commitment to quality ensures that every drop is a testament to purity and potency. For more information, call +1 (888) 516-8881.