Essential Oils for Grief

For someone experiencing grief and sorrow, aromatherapy may offer a little comfort. Aromatherapist Linda Lee Smith suggests the following essential oils for grief.

Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) is calming and helps relieve depression. The citrus fragrance relieves anxiety and has mood lifting qualities. It can be used for agitation, depression, and insomnia. It can be diffused or directly inhaled. Avoid applying to skin that will be exposed to sunlight or UV light within 36 hours, because bergamot makes your skin more sensitive to sun.

Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelumnobile) is relaxing, relieves spasms, and reduces inflammation, and it helps detoxify blood and liver. It can be used for relieving restlessness, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and skin conditions such as dermatitis. The fragrance may also dispel anger, stabilize the emotions, and help release emotions linked to the past. You can diffuse it or inhale directly as well as apply it directly to the skin. This oil is very safe and is often used with small children and the frail elderly.

Juniper (Juniperus osteosperma) is a digestive cleanser/stimulant, increases circulation through the kidneys and promotes excretion of toxins, and is detoxifying. The fragrance evokes feelings of health, love, and peace and may help elevate one's spiritual awareness. You can directly inhale or diffuse this oil as well as apply it directly to the skin or dilute it with a good carrier oil.

Lavender (Lavandula angustafolia) is relaxing, relieves pain, and reduces inflammation. It is effective for insomnia and nervous tension. Lavender balances both physically and emotionally and has been shown to dramatically improve concentration and mental acuity. You can directly inhale or diffuse this oil and apply it undiluted on the skin or diluted for a massage. Be sure you are using therapeutic-grade lavender that's not extended with hybrid lavender or synthetic linalool and linalyl acetate.

Linda Lee Smith is Director of the Institute of Spiritual Healing & Aromatherapy.

Source: Essential Oils Can Be an Aid During the Grief and Sorrow Process