May 2022

Here are some ways to use essential oils at home to help when you are feeling stressed or feeling "blue".

Use only high-quality essential oils. Be aware of your allergies & sensitivities when using aromatherapy oils. Only a few drops of the oils are needed. Do not take internally. Be aware of possible drug interactions--although not common with essential oils. Do not use with children. 

Essential oils for stress or the blues: geranium, rose, neroli (orange blossom), lavender, lemongrass, basil, Roman chamomile  (Some people with hayfever or asthma or other lung related conditions could have a reaction to chamomile or other essential oils, so talk with your heath care providers before using if you have lung/breathing conditions).

Essential oils can be used on the skin diluted in a base oil like almond, walnut, and grapeseed--but any good quality vegetable oil works fine.

Ways to use your oils:
Self-massage: Make your own personalized oil, by blending neroli and geranium, or lavender and lemongrass, in a base oil. It's also nice to add a few drops of basil to either of these blends.
Baths: Add 10 drops of lavender, Roman chamomile, or rose to a warm tub of water and swish!
Diffusers: A diffuser is a special device to dispense essential oils into the air without altering their components. Use as directed.

(Information adapted from Information for People--Client Education Handouts for Self-Care--from resources by Francoise Rapp & Jeanne Rose)