Some periods of life are inevitably accompanied by stress: exams, conflicts, job interviews, etc. Far from being a fatality, stress can be effectively managed with essential oils. They will soothe anxiety, irritability, sleep disorders and tension, without creating addiction or dependency.

True or fine lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), not to be confused with spike lavender (Lavandula latifolia), is an excellent essential oil for reducing tension. It is calming and energizing, which may seem contradictory; it helps fight against stress and anxiety, while restoring energy in case of great nervous fatigue. Its sedative action supports the sleep.
The fine lavender can be used in cutaneous application on the wrists, the solar plexus and the arch of the foot, diluted in a vegetable oil, in diffusion or in bath, mixed beforehand in salt, powdered milk or a neutral natural excipient

The essential oil of petit grain bigarade (Citrus aurantium) is sedative, calming and anxiolytic. In addition to its antidepressant and antispasmodic action, it is excellent for rebalancing the nervous system. It calms palpitations and digestive disorders that may be related to a state of stress. This essential oil has properties similar to those of neroli, but at a lower price. Put one or two drops on a handkerchief and breathe! The simple inhalation of the small bigarade seed brings relaxation, serenity and harmony, hence the interest to diffuse the bitter orange in places where stress can be omnipresent, as in the office, for example. It can also be used in baths, orally (one drop on a sugar, a neutral tablet or in a spoonful of honey) or by skin application.

The marjoram with shell or gardens (Origanum majorana) is an essential oil which rebalances the nervous system and presents anti-asthenic properties. It is therefore a great help in case of stress and mental fatigue. It calms the all-too-familiar "tummy ache". Its neurotonic qualities make it an excellent antidepressant and tranquilizing essential oil. By calming the nervous system, it relieves the inconveniences which result from it like the thoracic and digestive pains.
This essential oil can be consumed in a spoon of honey or oil, or on a piece of cane sugar, which one lets melt under the language. It can also be applied, diluted in a vegetable oil, on the "painful" zone (belly, chest...) or on the solar plexus, in case of insomnia. You can also inhale it on a handkerchief or put a few drops on a porous pebble placed near the bed to facilitate sleep.

These few essential oils are only a sample of what nature offers to avoid or relieve stress. Whether inhaled, diffused, applied to the skin or taken orally, they can really make your life easier during particularly difficult periods. Before you turn to more radical and harmful treatments, try and...enjoy!