(The following is some comments and highlights of what essential oils one may want to explore. I choose these because they may address stress and anxiety. The comments are simplistic, because after all, this is an article, not a chapter!)

Roman Chamomile: Anthemis nobilis

Olfactory use: Well this is an obvious one: Soothing, easing anxiety, tension, fear, promoting relaxation, allays worries. Helpful with sleep. People with allergies to flowers may want to steer clear. Put this together with Lavender and Mandarin, for diffusion, and you�ve got some sweet dreams.

Bergamot: Olfactory use: It is sedating yet uplifting, excellent for anxiety, depression and nervous tension.

Sandalwood: diffuse in the air or to use a couple of drops in a bath. Sandalwood is relaxing, soothing nervous tension and anxiety. Brings us back to ourselves, promoting peace and acceptance. Great for meditation as well as it helps us to accept reality as it is.

Frankincense: Diffuse in the air. Frankincense helps to get us to breath more deeply, producing feelings of calm. Is known to be helpful for anxious and obsessional states linked to the past. Of course since we all have individual reactions, it may activate memories associated with Catholic church experiences as it is often used as incense within the church.

Vetivert: This deep, smoky and earthy fragrance is less familiar. It is referred to here mostly because of it�s sedative properties. Olfactory use, smell neat from the bottle, or on a tissue. Is a grounding, balancing, calming oil, reputed panacea for stress and tension. Have observed first hand great affects with this during an anxiety attack, butterflies in stomach, stage fright and apprehension.

Elemi: Its aroma is citrus-like and spicy. While I don�t have a deep love for it�s aromatic qualities, I admire its affect on the mind and emotions. Seems to have grounding yet joyous effect, instilling a feeling of peace and may well be a helpful nerve sedative. It is considered a base note. Blends well with Frankincense, Geranium, Ginger, Lavender, Melissa and Orange.

Lemon: Olfactory use: Good for increasing concentration and focus. Studies in Japan found 52% less clerical errors when used in office environments. I have personally seen people go from states of fatigue and yawning, to alert, focused, and engaged in activities requiring concentration. Is also known to have anti-depressant properties.

Rose: Good for the skin and can be worn diluted, as a personal fragrance. Rose is known to be an anti-depressant and addresses anger, grief, frustration, and jealousy. I liken the effect of rose as that closest to a state of �unconditional love�. Suggested for conditions related to the heart chakra.

Jasmine: Has properties of an anti depressant and good for a boon in those in the helping profession. Wear as personal blend or diffuse, but it can be intense. Go lightly.

Lavender: Personally I prefer Lavandula angustifolia, mailette. Would definitely have it in my first aid kit for all of its topical applications, as well as to aid in sleep and relaxation.

Clary Sage: Known to euphoric effect and brings about a sense of well-being. Great also in message as it relaxes muscles, which can become tight due to tension. Personally, I also think the euphoric state is great for supporting a sense of humor.

For those of you who are just getting started, and want to explore for your personal use, I suggested you treat the oils like personalities, getting to know them one by one, more and more, increasing your understanding through safe use, education and awareness. Most of my suggestions here are for olfactory use, through diffusion, unless you�re experienced enough to blend and dilute properly.

Those of you who may want to experience the benefits of Aromatherapy during these this times but have no knowledge of Aromatherapy, may I suggest you consult a qualified aromatherapy professional through contact with such associations such as the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy or other qualified professional aromatherapy groups in your country. If you are currently under the care of a professional for anxiety or depression, seek coordination with your healthcare provider and your aromatherapy professional; often this can be accomplished depending on the skills and qualifications of the aromatherapy professional.

I hope you enjoyed this piece. Be well, this too shall pass. KB

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