The most disturbing fact about stress is that we are usually not conscious of what it is doing until actual physical symptoms appear. The stress response is sometimes referred to as "fight or flight". It's when your dog switches into overdrive to prepare for what is perceived as a physical threat. Stress becomes a bigger problem however when your dog stress alarm is on constantly. Unfortunately, this is also the case with us due to the modern way of living.
Essential oils utilize their natural chemical complexity and intensity. Among the hundreds of essential oil constituents there are some that are chemically stimulating and others that are chemically calming. Most essential oils contain both types. That's why you can not always assume what effect an oil have on any individual. But, the results of testing and research shows that the oils seem to "know" chemically which action is most needed. In aromatherapy, these oils are referred to as adaptogens because they can create a different influence depending on what the body needs to balance. This adaptogenic process may occur because aromas are perceived through the olfactory nerve, located very near the limbic center of the brain-which is the call center for the body's stress alarm system.
These are My Top 5 Essential Oils for Stress to use by diffusion or aromatically.
#1 Cedarwood
Cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica) has a warm, woodsy aroma that creates a comforting, uplifting experience. Cedarwood essential oil is distilled from woodchips of Cedrus atlantica trees, the species most closely related to the biblical cedars of Lebanon. It is a key stress relieving oil because it stimulates the limbic region of the brain, specifically the pineal gland, which releases melatonin.
#2 Roman Chamomile
Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) has a sweet, herbaceous aroma with notes of bright apple. Its warmth and gentleness can help create a relaxing and calming atmosphere that can make a wonderful addition to your home diffusion practices. Chamomile has been used as an herbal remedy since ancient times. The word “chamomile” is derived from the Greek words “khamai,” meaning on the ground, and “melon,” meaning apple—likely because of its distinct fruity aroma. Roman Chamomile is a low-growing plant with parsley-like leaves and daisy-like flowers. The flowers are steam distilled to create Roman Chamomile essential oil.
#3 Orange
Orange essential oil, cold-pressed from the rinds of oranges, has a juicy aroma reminiscent of the fresh fruit. Orange oil offers a sweet, peaceful aroma that can fill a room with a sense of peace, harmony, and creativity. Orange essential oil has had many studies done to show how it can reduce stress in the body and help in restoring endocrine and immune function.
#4 Frankincense
It’s no surprise that Frankincense (Boswellia carterii) has been sought after since ancient times. Frankincense essential oil has an earthy, uplifting aroma that’s perfect for grounding and spiritual connectedness. Create a safe and comforting environment when you diffuse or inhale this empowering oil—a perfect opportunity to collect your thoughts.
#5 Davana
The warm, sweet aroma of Davana essential oil is the antidote to a stressful, unbalanced day. The davana plant is a member of the daisy family and is native to southern India, where it’s traditionally used by Ayurvedic healers to balance the three Doshas, or energies, throughout the body and spirit. This holistic approach to balancing health and wellness is thousands of years old and is still practiced today.
So this list is by NO means a comprehensive list, and I've also not listed some of the most common like Lavender. I find that our dogs are more drawn to the earthy and warm oils than the florals. If you try these, I would love to know how your dog responds .
Peace, Love, & Paws,
RannaLynn