The Power of Essential Oils
If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably dodged more than one essential oil (EO) sales rep rattling on about how lavender changed their life. And, like me, you’ve probably decided that anyone who would spend hundreds of dollars on scented oils to lose weight or lengthen their attention span isn’t the sharpest knife in the kitchen.
And, like me, you were probably ill-informed and totally inexperienced with the power and total fun of essential oils.
In today’s post, we’re not only going to explore just how useful and delicious EOs are, but also how they can support and ease our journey through withdrawal, recovery, and sobriety.
A Cautionary Note
Before we go any further, remember that many companies can market synthetic oil as essential or organic. The difference is crucial, as there are no proven or noted benefits with the use of synthetic oils as there are with essential, organic oils. Check out this article before purchasing anything.
Additionally, use extreme caution before using essential oils topically, inhaling them, or ingesting them. Some can be used in those ways while others cannot. You should always speak with a healthcare professional before using essential oils in any of these three ways.
Context Clues
As rewarding as going to rehab for a substance abuse disorder is, the process in its entirety is emotionally, physically, and mentally taxing. There’s a fair share of stress, sickness, anxiety–and yes, even inflammation–involved in addiction and subsequent recovery from it.
The good news: essential oils have the potential to ease many of the bodily and mental challenges encountered in recovery.
De-Stressing & Other Benefits
Stress is a powerful influence. It can cloud judgment, weaken the immune system, and push people over their own personal edges.
Often, stress and psychological triggers can push people to use drugs or alcohol to cope with reality. Even when someone enters treatment and becomes sober, stress can still play a powerful factor, leading to cravings and relapse.
Hooray for Essential Oils!
Essential oils are proven to help with relaxation and anxiety relief; in this way, they can help minimize the risk of stress-induced relapse.
Many essential oils are used during massages (another great way to distress). They’re often used topically, with a carrier oil like coconut, olive, or jojoba, and applied directly to the skin (always check the labeling of the oil before applying it to your skin).
Even when not used topically, oils can produce calming effects when used in a diffuser, adding to the general well-being and mood of your home while smelling delightful!
Here are some of the best oils for relaxation and well-being:
- Clary sage
- Lavender
- Bergamont
- Lemongrass
- Neroli
Say Bye-Bye to Germs Using Essential Oils
In addition to helping us calm down, essential oils also have antimicrobial, antiviral, and antibacterial properties that can have an uplifting effect on our immune system when we’re bogged down by a common cold, the flu, or other viruses.
The perfect oils for boosting immunity:
- Clove
- Cinnamon
- Eucalyptus
- Rosemary
Reversing Inflammation
Essential oils even help reduce the inflammation that occurs during our bodies’ natural processes, as well as the detoxification process that many people undergo when entering a treatment facility.
Try decreasing inflammation with the following oils:
- Fennel
- Rose
- Ginger
- Thyme
Anxiety Doesn’t Stand a Chance
Anxiety is no joke, and it can make or break the recovery experience. These next few essential oils are known for their anti-anxiety properties:
- Valerian
- Jasmine
- Chamomile
- YlangYlang
- Frankincense
- Patchouli
The Take-Away
Of course, essential oils aren’t for everyone. But if you’re drawn to exploring them, you might find that they give you great benefit. Some people find they work miraculously, while others find them a pleasant experience with no ill effects.
If you’d like to give essential oils a try, consider this list of the best essential oil brands.
In the worst case scenario, oils are a fun hobby that may enrich your life. Try a few out today to see what all the fuss is about!
If you are struggling to maintain your recovery and keep your stress levels in check, St. Gregory Recovery Center can help. Contact us today to speak with an admissions counselor about what we do for you.
