Did you know that essential oils can be used for trauma healing? If you think you are suffering symptoms of trauma, aromatherapy might help. And remember, you can experience trauma even if you haven’t suffered what is often referred to as a “traumatic incident.”
“Trauma is an emotional response to a terrible event like an accident, rape or natural disaster,” says the American Psychological Association. But trauma doesn’t just develop after one-time incidents. Other types of trauma include chronic trauma and complex trauma. According to MedicineNet, “Chronic trauma may result from a long-term serious illness, sexual abuse, domestic violence, bullying, and exposure to extreme situations, such as a war.” Complex trauma can happen to “Victims of childhood abuse, neglect, domestic violence, family disputes, and other repetitive situations, such as civil unrest.”
Psychiatrists are even saying that collective trauma can develop as a result of experiencing the COVID-19 pandemic.
Trauma of any kind can result in symptoms that affect daily life. You will most likely need the help of a professional. But there are also some easy at-home practices – such as aromatherapy – that can relieve symptoms of trauma. Take a look at how essential oils can help with trauma healing.
Which Essential Oils to Use for Trauma Healing?
Lavender – Essential oils directly impact the region of the brain that activates our fight or flight response. Essential oils that provide calming effects – such as lavender – can help calm our fight or flight impulse. Lavender can also help improve sleep, which your body needs to properly heal.
Frankincense – Frankincense essential oil is grounding and is thought to provide relief from anxiety and stress.
Cedarwood – Calming, protective, and grounding, cedarwood has sedative properties which can help soothe symptoms of trauma.
Orange and Lemon – Orange and lemon oil can help relieve the symptoms of fear and stress associated with trauma, concludes a study. Citrus essential oils like lemon and orange contain the constituent s-limone which has been shown to produce an anti-stress response when introduced to brain receptors.
How to Use Essential Oils for Trauma Healing
Diffuse – Add 5-10 drops of essential oil to your diffuser. If the scent is overpowering to you, try diffusing for 15 minute intervals morning, noon, and night.
Make a massage oil – Add a few drops of essential oil into a carrier oil such as jojoba or sweet almond. Self massage your hands and feet or ask someone to massage your back and spine.
Apply topically – Dilute with a carrier oil and apply topically to pressure points and energy centers such as the heart, wrists, or behind the ears.
Add to a warm bath – Essential oils need to be mixed with a carrier oil or Epsom salt before adding to your bath.
Essential oils do not cure trauma or treat the underlying conditions, but they can help relieve some of the symptoms of trauma. Essential oils should only be used as a supplement to professional trauma healing.