Best Essential Oils for Stress and Relaxation

By Esther Mackay

Essential oils are a long-used aspect of homoeopathy and are used for a range of purposes. With so many different oils and blends out there it can be daunting trying to figure out where to start. No matter your issue, there is an essential oil out there that will do the job.

Lavender oil – Kmart

Lavender is a classic essential oil that has long been used in many different products to aid in sleep and relaxation. Extremely flowery and fragrant, lavender is a familiar smell for a lot of people and has many benefits, making it a great oil to have in your collection. Grab a bottle of lavender oil and pop a few drops on your pillow before bed for a deep relaxing sleep. Many places stock lavender oil, but if you’re on that stressed student budget, Kmart has lavender oil for just $3.25.

Brain Power blend – Absolute essential

With its unique blend of citrus and herb oils (rosemary, spearmint and lemon), Brain Power is used to support memory, concentration, and alleviate mental fatigue. If you want to be at your peak for that assignment that’s got you stressed, three to five drops of this on a compress will get those academic juices flowing. At $29.90 this oil is on the pricier side, but worth it for a unique blend that matches your specific needs.

Peppermint oil – By Nature

Peppermint is frequently used to improve mental clarity and alleviate headaches. Apply peppermint oil topically to reduce the symptoms of mental stress and awaken the senses. Not only can peppermint oil be used for mental therapy, but it can also be used as a deodorant, cleaning product, and to help aid in congestion and digestion. A great everyday use oil, the By Nature peppermint oil can be found at The Warehouse for $7.50.

Stress Less blend – The dolphin clinic

Stress less is used for many things such as stress, anxiety, sleeplessness, and general tension - all things that any student has experienced before. This oil is super multi-functional, which makes it a great starter oil for anyone who doesn't quite know what they're after. Containing bergamot, mandarin, patchouli and sandalwood, Stress Less is best used in a relaxing bath. Drop about six drops of this oil into your bath and just take some time to relax. This oil retails at around $20 at most pharmacies.

Chill Out blend – PureNature

The Chill Out blend is designed to create a relaxing and calming atmosphere. If you just need to take some time to chill from your day to day stress then grab a cup of tea, cosy up with a book, and pop a few drops of this in a diffuser or steam bath. Made up of a mix of sandalwood, tangerine, balsam and rose geranium this oil retails at a mid-range price of $15.