The pandemic in 2020 undoubtedly caused a great deal of tension and worry. Parents everywhere were feeling the pinch, and there’s no question that our children were as well. However, although children are tough and frequently seem to be taking things in stride, appearances may be misleading.
Disruptions from their daily routines, as well as the frustrations that come with bouncing back and forth between home school and in-person education, may make our children feel even more stressed and anxious than they already are. Parents are increasingly looking for a more natural solution to their family’s problems. So much so that aromatherapy is experiencing a renaissance.
The discipline of holistic medicine, on the other hand, is quite broad. It’s difficult to know where to begin with aromatherapy since there are so many plants and essential oils to choose from. Here are eight relaxing smells that might help children cope with stress and anxiety. Before buying an essential oil set, let’s first understand when you might need it.
Common Anxiety Symptoms in Children
The following are some of the most common anxiety indications and symptoms:
- Muscle pain (particularly stomach aches and headaches that are otherwise inexplicable)
- Concentration problems
- Insomnia or recurring nightmares
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Worrying all the time
The Most Stress-Relieving Scents
Before we get started, it’s important to remember that we’re actually talking about essential oils when we speak about aromatherapy. The majority of writings on the subject will go back and forth between the two names, often using them interchangeably.
Rosemary
Rosemary has been demonstrated to improve mood and performance in studies. Furthermore, rosemary has been shown to lower cortisol, a stress hormone.
Lavender
Lavender is widely recognized for its relaxing and soothing properties. Lavender, like rosemary, has been shown to lower cortisol levels.
Peppermint
While it isn’t precisely a peaceful aroma, peppermint is a great stress reliever that also helps with anxiety.
Ylang-Ylang
With a pleasant aroma and a long history of being used in soaps, lotions, and skincare products, ylang-ylang has long been valued for its ability to ease tension and create a pleasant mood.
Lemon/Citrus
Like peppermint, lemon (or citrus) is most recognized for its energizing properties, but it may also be a very effective stress reliever. Citrus oil, for example, was shown to considerably reduce participants’ anxiety levels in a 2014 study done by Brazilian scientists.
Jasmine
Jasmine’s pleasant roller ball scent is also recognized to have a relaxing and stress-relieving effect. This perfume is widely available in candles and soaps, and you can always get a fresh bouquet from your local florist.
Clary Sage
It is a close cousin of the culinary sage you’re undoubtedly acquainted with, but it’s less potent and hence excellent for aromatherapy. Clary sage was shown to be especially effective in reducing cortisol levels and alleviating stress in a 2015 study.
Rose
You already know that roses are lovely and that they smell wonderful, but you may not realize that pausing to smell the roses may help you relax and reduce stress. Rose oil, in fact, has been found in studies to reduce your breathing rate and lower your blood pressure.
