Grief is something we all experience. No matter the path we take, we will unfortunately walk the journey of loss. You might have lost a relationship, a job, a pet, or even a loved one. We often experience loneliness during these times, and we can find answers in all the wrong places. I am not a psychologist or an experienced grief counselor, but I have experienced several losses in my short life.
Photo by Getty Images/Brzozowska
Sense of smell is an essential part of our being, which is partially why we often connect smell to memories. We have something called “olfactory receptors” as part of our limbic system. After you smell an oil, these receptors send a message to your brain and you instantly make a connection. This is why many aromatherapists, including myself; believe aromatherapy can help ease anxiety, grief, and depressing during tough times. I have personally found solace through books, nature, and essential oils. By using essential oils for grief relief, you can allow yourself to face the truth while healing your wounds with the gift nature has given us.
In times of trouble, it’s easy to get wrapped up in the moment and ignore what it is we need most: self-care. Using certain plants can provide therapeutic properties to get you feeling better. For example, rose absolute (Rosa x damascene) is a tried-and-true option for easing the pain of grief. This oil can be soothing for grief and depression while restoring feelings of deep despair and anxiety. This oil also promotes the feeling of love, which can be lost during such tragic times.
If floral scents aren’t exactly what you love, then Melissa, also called lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is another great option. The scent resembles a mixture of lemon and lemongrass, and it is uplifting. Melissa can aid insomnia, anxiety, promotes calmness and is especially helpful during grieving. I often use this oil when experiencing anxiety.
A third and affordable option is grapefruit (Citrus paradise). This oil is uplifting, cleansing, and can reduce tension and depression. You can count on this oil when you need a pick me up.
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There are many other oils to help during times of trouble, such as jasmine absolute (Jasminum grandiflorum),green mandarin(Citrus reticulata), helichrysum (Helichrysum italicum), Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) and more. I suggest researching each individual oil and finding which one resonates with you. In my opinion, it is important during tough times to personally identify with the scent of the oil. Many oils belong to the same chemical families and are able to provide similar results. For example, I love bergamot mint (Mentha citrata). This oil can bring balance and can be helpful during times of anxiety and depression. I personally resonate with Green Mandarin essential oil because I associate positive memories to its scent. Every time I open a bottle of this oil I can instantly remember the happy feeling I experienced at my cabin when I diffused the oil during a fall retreat.
Now that I have introduced you to these oils to help during tough times, we can begin to blend a few recipes.
Calming Grief Recipe
6 drops of Roman chamomile essential oil
2 drops of rose absolute essential oil
8 drops of lavender essential oil
1 ounce carrier oil, such as olive oil or jojoba
Directions: Add all ingredients to a 10ml roller bottle.
Use: Roll over wrist and temples.
Happy Thoughts Recipe
10 drops grapefruit essential oil
2 drop jasmin absolute essential oil
3 drops Roman chamomile essential oil
1 ounce carrier oil, such as olive oil or jojoba
Directions: Add all ingredients to a 10ml roller bottle.
Use: Roll over wrist and temples.
Anxiety Free Recipe
3 drops Melissa essential oil
10 drops green mandarin essential oil
2 drops sandalwood essential oil
1 ounce carrier oil, such as olive oil or jojoba
Directions: Add all ingredients to a 10ml roller bottle.
Use: Roll over wrist and temples.
You can find more blending ideas through the Aromahead website. We recommend visiting their site for more information regarding the proper use of essential oils.
Queren was inspired to write this blog post during her time enrolled in Aromahead’s Aromatherapy Certification program. She is a photographer and Digital Content Assistant for Mother Earth Living. You can follow her journey @kingfarmhouse