An estimated six million Americans suffer from panic attacks or some sort of panic disorder every year. Some people may only experience in a highly tense situation, while others experience regular episodes. Panic attacks come without warning and the symptoms can vary in intensity. How can you handle a panic attack when you first notice symptoms? This article aims to cover six powerful essential oils that can promote calm during a stressful attack.
What Is A Panic Attack?
A panic attack can appear in an instant and experts characterize it as an intense fear that triggers physical reactions. This can occur whether or not real danger is present. It can be very frightening for the individual, as it can feel like they no longer have control or that they are having a heart attack. More often than not, panic attacks occur once or twice during a lifetime, but people can experience recurring attacks. Although they may not be life-threatening, panic attacks can interfere with quality of life.
Scents For Panic Attacks
Certain essential oils are beneficial for anxiety or feelings of panic. One study monitored 58 hospice patients who received hand massages once a day for one week. The massage used a blend of essential oils with a 1.5% dilution of sweet almond oil. All patients reported less pain and fewer depression symptoms, concluding aromatherapy’s benefits for pain and depression. Continue reading to learn about the best essential oils for panic attacks.
Bergamot Essential Oil
If you enjoy Early Grey tea, then you are familiar with the powerful aroma of bergamot. It’s a refreshing scent that helps to promote energy. During a panic attack, this essential oil may help you cope with the symptoms, as it works to help stabilize fearful thinking. A 2011 study found that bergamot helped relieve anxiety when combined with lavender essential oil. Bergamot essential oil may also help to promote a sense of deep relaxation.
Ylang Ylang Essential Oil
It’s common for panic attacks to bring about bouts of intense crying and sadness. Ylang ylang oil, which comes from the flowers of ylang ylang trees, helps to relieve tension and anxiety. It’s quite fragrant and the aroma works to combat sadness by boosting overall mood and attitude. The best way to apply it is by adding a drop or two on the inside of each wrist. Take a deep breath and let the aroma bring about a sense of calm.
Frankincense Essential Oil
People commonly use frankincense essential oil with lavender and bergamot essential oils to enhance the benefits. The aroma helps to provide a tranquil energy, promoting spiritual grounding. It’s a very common oil in aromatherapy because it can deepen meditation by quieting the mind. The theory is that it has the same effect during a panic attack, counteracting the overwhelming sensations that a person experiences.
Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender exhibits soothing effects that help to promote natural relaxation. Many people place a few drops of lavender essential oil under their pillow to promote better and deeper sleep. The smell of lavender works to reduce feelings of nervousness, inducing a sense of calm. People who experience symptoms of panic disorders benefit from using lavender, as it works to relieve headaches and migraines. Some people find that it can alleviate jitters and boost overall mood.
Rose Essential Oil
Not only does rose essential oil smell floral and beautiful, but it also exhibits properties that may soothe the nervous system. One study found that inhaling rose essential oil for ten minutes significantly lowered anxiety levels. The placebo group in the study performed breathing exercises, but did not experience the same relaxation that the rose oil group did. Rose oil’s scent is emotionally settling as well, working to relieve tension during a panic attack.
Vetiver Essential Oil
One of the reasons why aromatherapists prefer vetiver essential oil is because it has a natural grounding energy. It works to promote reassurance, helping to calm and stabilize the mind during trauma therapy. Vetiver essential oil helps to reduce hypersensitivity and may even relax the nervous system. It may also exhibit natural sedative properties, helping to improve sleep. For someone who experiences a panic attack, inhaling the scent of vetiver essential oil may relieve jitters and anxiety.
