Essential oils have many health benefits, but anxiety management is where they really shine.
What Are Essential Oils?
<p>Essential oils are extracted from the roots, stems, flowers, leaves, and bark of certain plants.</p><p>Their therapeutic compounds can promote relaxation, improve mood, reduce anxiety, and ameliorate depression.</p>How Essential Oils May Help Anxiety
<p>Most compounds have to be digested or injected in order to enter the bloodstream.</p><p>However, the phytochemicals in essential oils, like linalool and linalyl acetate, are small enough to pass through the skin and nasal cavities.</p><p>From there, they can readily travel across the blood-brain barrier to potentially relieve anxiety.</p><p>People with anxiety often have concurrent digestive issues that inhibit nutrient absorption, making essential oils an especially valuable treatment.</p>How to Use Essential Oils for Anxiety
<p>Essential oils can be ingested, applied topically, or inhaled.</p><p>Aromatherapy massage, however, can provide particularly fast-acting relief.</p><p>A <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18753801" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2008 study</a> found that aromatherapy hand massages with a blend of bergamot, lavender, and frankincense can effectively reduce anxiety, pain, and depression in hospice patients better than regular massage alone. The essential oil blend contained a 1.5 percent dilution of essential oils, using sweet almond oil as a carrier oil. </p><p>Carrier oils like almond, coconut, and <a href="https://www.remedyreview.com/health/how-is-hemp-oil-made/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">hemp seed oil</a> can spread the essential oil across a wider surface area and extend its aromatic effects.</p><p>However, oral lavender oil can be effective as well.</p><p>A 2009 study published in the journal <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19382124" target="_blank"><em>Human Psychopharmacology</em></a> found that oral lavender oil capsules can reduce anxiety in participants watching stressful film clips.</p>4 Best Essential Oils for Anxiety
<p>Essential oils can reduce stress hormone production and boost calming neurotransmitters.</p><p>Here's a closer look at the four best essential oils for anxiety:</p><p><strong>1. Lavender</strong></p><p>Lavender is the queen of anti-anxiety oils, and there's a mountain of evidence to prove it.</p><p>Over the years, lavender essential oil has been studied as a treatment for wounds, burns, and seizures, but recent research suggests that it may also have potent anti-anxiety, mood stabilizing, and sedative effects.</p><p>It can also be consumed as a lavender tea.</p><p>Here's what the research as to say about lavender essential oil for anxiety:</p><ul><li>According to a <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3612440/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2013 meta-analysis</a>, lavender may promote the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA and reduce glutamate, which tends to be overactive in anxious individuals. </li><li>A 2012 study published in the journal <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22402245/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>Phytomedicine</em></a> found that lavender may reduce anxiety by acting on acetylcholine: the primary neurotransmitter involved with higher thinking. </li><li>Inhaled <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12112282/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">lavender may target the limbic system</a> by targeting the hippocampus and amygdala: the emotional center of the brain.</li><li><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17291597" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Animal studies</a> show that inhaled lavender can reduce cortisol: the main hormone linked to chronic stress and anxiety. </li><li>In a <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24456909" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2014 human study</a>, researchers determined that oral lavender oil can outperform the prescription anxiolytic paroxetine in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).</li></ul><p>Although the FDA <em>does not</em> officially recognize lavender oil as a treatment for anxiety disorders, the <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5437114/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">European Medicines Agency</a> (EMA) does.</p><p><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26247152" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Recent research</a> shows that lavender oil may also reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and slow heart rate.</p><p><strong>2. Bergamot</strong></p><p>Bergamot is another widely-researched essential oil that may reduce anxiety, pain, stress, and inflammation.</p><p>According to a 2011 rodent study published in the journal <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21105176" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>Phytotherapy Research</em></a>, "Both BEO [bergamot essential oil] and diazepam [prescription medication] exhibited anxiolytic-like behaviors and attenuated HPA axis activity by reducing the corticosterone response to stress.</p><p>In other words, bergamot treated stress and anxiety by calming the stress response.</p><p>Human studies are also promising.</p><p>A <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5434918/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2017 pilot study</a> found that bergamot oil aromatherapy can enhance positive feelings in the waiting room of a mental health treatment center.</p><p><strong>3. Rose</strong></p><p>Studies show that rose essential oil may balance hormones, reduce stress, and treat anxiety.</p><p>Here's what the research has to say about the health benefits of rose essential oil:</p><ul><li>In a <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17693981" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2007 Japanese study</a>, rose oil aromatherapy effectively reduced cortisol levels in both female and male volunteers. Plus, it decreased testosterone in women but had no effect on testosterone in men.</li><li>According to a <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5111093/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2016 clinical trial</a>, patients undergoing hemodialysis treatment may experience reduced anxiety with rose oil aromatherapy. </li><li>On a similar note, a <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5511972/#B23" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2014 study</a> indicates that inhaling rose oil may increase feelings of comfort by inhibiting neurotransmitter activity in the prefrontal cortex. </li><li>According to another <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4270653/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2014 study</a>, rose oil foot baths can be significantly more effective at reducing anxiety than regular foot baths.</li></ul><p>Rose essential oil also contains eugenol: one of the strongest antioxidants in the world.</p><p><strong>4. Chamomile</strong></p><p>Chamomile tea is widely used as a natural sleep aid, and that's because the plant contains several therapeutic phytochemicals, including the soothing compound chamazulene.</p><p>These properties also make chamomile well-suited for reducing stress and anxiety.</p><p>Both chamomile aromatherapy and oral chamomile appear to be equally effective.</p><p>In one <a href="https://nccih.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/040310.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2009 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study</a>, researchers at Pennsylvania State University tested the effects of oral chamomile capsules on 57 patients with mild generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).</p><p>Compared to the placebo, participants experienced a statistically significant reduction in anxiety symptoms.</p><p>According to the study's authors, "These results suggest that chamomile may have modest benefits for some people with mild to moderate GAD."</p><p>At the same time, a <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6428160/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2013 aromatherapy study</a> found a significant difference in the anxiety scores between the chamomile group and the control group.</p><p>To top it all off, chamomile contains several terpenes and flavonoids that may treat gastrointestinal inflammation and reduce pain.</p>What to Know Before Using Essential Oils for Anxiety
<p><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6428160/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Other anti-anxiety oils</a> to check out include, sage, frankincense, geranium, and orange oil.</p><p>It's also a good notion to never ingest essential oils without first making sure they're food-grade. Many oils are manufactured with synthetic perfumes that can upset and irritate the stomach.</p><p>If you have a history of serious medical conditions or are currently taking prescription drugs, make sure to consult a specialist before adding essential oils to your regular health practice.</p><p>All in all, many people have found aromatherapy and other essential oil applications to be very beneficial in the reduction of anxiety — and you might too.</p><p><em>Justin Fowler-Lindner, a former EMT turned freelance writer, spends his days popping supplements and soaking up the sun in tropical destinations around the world.</em></p>- Surviving the Holiday Season With These 9 Herbs for Stress ... ›
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You may be familiar with myrrh from Biblical stories even if you're not sure what it is.
1. Kills Harmful Bacteria
<p>Ancient Egyptians used myrrh and other essential oils to embalm mummies, as the oils not only provide a nice scent but also slow decay. Scientists now know this is because the oils kill bacteria and other microbes (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11677605">5</a>).</p><p>Additionally, in Biblical times, myrrh incense—often in combination with <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/frankincense" target="_blank">frankincense</a>—was burned in places of worship to help purify the air and prevent the spread of contagious diseases, including those caused by bacteria.</p><p>One recent study found that burning myrrh and frankincense incense reduced airborne bacterial counts by 68% (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29530608">6</a>).</p><p>Preliminary animal research suggests that myrrh can directly kill bacteria, as well as stimulate the immune system to make more white blood cells, which also kill bacteria (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23961070">7</a>).</p><p>In test-tube studies, myrrh oil has strong effects against several infectious bacteria, including some drug-resistant ones (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.jocpr.com/articles/commiphora-myrrha-and-commiphora-africana-essential-oils.pdf">3</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10865454">8</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20922991">9</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25027570">10</a>).</p><p>In one test-tube study, myrrh oil at a low dilution of 0.1% killed all dormant Lyme disease bacteria, which can persist in some people after antibiotic treatment and continue to cause illness (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30332754">11</a>).</p><p>Still, more studies are needed to determine whether myrrh oil can treat persistent Lyme infections.</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Myrrh oil has been used to kill harmful bacteria long before scientists discovered that microbes cause contagious illnesses. It may have an impact on some drug-resistant and Lyme disease bacteria.</p>2. May Support Oral Health
<p>Due to its antimicrobial properties, myrrh has traditionally been used to treat oral infections and <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/13-anti-inflammatory-foods" target="_blank">inflammation</a> (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12781209">12</a>).</p><p>Some natural mouthwashes and toothpaste contain myrrh oil, which is approved as a flavoring by the FDA (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fda.gov/Food/IngredientsPackagingLabeling/FoodAdditivesIngredients/ucm091048.htm">13</a>, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.revistadechimie.ro/pdf/23%20LISA%209%2017.pdf">14</a>).</p><p>What's more, when people with Behcet's disease—an inflammatory disorder—used a myrrh mouthwash to treat painful mouth sores four times daily for a week, 50% of them had complete pain relief and 19% had complete healing of their mouth sores (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.usa-journals.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Albishri_Vol51.pdf">15</a>).</p><p>Test-tube studies suggest that mouthwash containing myrrh oil may also help gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums around your teeth due to a buildup of plaque (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12781209">12</a>).</p><p>Yet, more studies are needed to confirm these benefits.</p><p>Keep in mind that you should never swallow myrrh oral-care products, as high doses of myrrh can be toxic (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.usa-journals.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Albishri_Vol51.pdf">15</a>).</p><p>Additionally, if you have oral surgery, it may be best to avoid myrrh mouthwash during healing. A test-tube study found that stitches—especially silk ones—can degrade when exposed to myrrh, though they held up in the doses typically found in mouthwash (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25736257">16</a>).</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Some natural mouthwashes and toothpastes contain myrrh oil, which may help relieve mouth sores and gum inflammation. Never swallow these products.</p>3. Supports Skin Health and May Help Heal Sores
<p>Traditional uses of myrrh include treating skin wounds and infections. Today, scientists are testing these applications (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26427766">17</a>).</p><p>One test-tube study of human skin cells found that an essential oil blend containing myrrh helped heal wounds (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29450150">18</a>).</p><p>Another study noted that myrrh and other essential oils applied via baths helped mothers heal skin wounds from vaginal deliveries (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15314339">19</a>).</p><p>However, multiple oils were used simultaneously in these studies, so the individual effects of myrrh for wound healing are unclear.</p><p>Specific studies on myrrh oil are more telling.</p><p>A test-tube study on 247 different essential oil combinations found that myrrh oil mixed with sandalwood oil was especially effective at killing microbes that infect skin wounds (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30362637">20</a>).</p><p>Additionally, in one test-tube study, myrrh oil alone inhibited 43–61% of the growth of five fungi that cause skin conditions, including ringworm and athlete's foot (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26427766">17</a>).</p><p>Human research is needed to confirm these benefits. However, if you want to try myrrh for general <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/12-foods-for-healthy-skin" target="_blank">skin health</a>, many natural ointments and soaps contain it. You can also apply diluted myrrh oil directly on your skin.</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Applying diluted myrrh oil on your skin may aid wound healing and fight microbes that can cause infections. The oil may also deter the growth of skin fungi, including ringworm and athlete's foot.</p>4. Combats Pain and Swelling
<p>Pain—such as <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/headache-remedies" target="_blank">headaches</a>, joint pain and back pain—is a common complaint.</p><p>Myrrh oil contains compounds that interact with opioid receptors and tell your brain you're not in pain. Myrrh also blocks the production of inflammatory chemicals that can lead to swelling and pain (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28626756">1</a>, <a target="_blank" href="http://biomed.papers.upol.cz/pdfs/bio/2005/01/01.pdf">2</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22020140">21</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21167270">22</a>).</p><p>When people prone to headaches took a multi-ingredient supplement containing myrrh's pain-relieving compounds, their headache pain was reduced by about two-thirds during the six-month study (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.minervamedica.it/en/journals/gazzetta-medica-italiana/article.php?cod=R22Y2017N04A0149">23</a>).</p><p>Further research is needed to confirm these benefits. The supplement tested isn't available in the US, and ingesting myrrh oil is not recommended.</p><p>You can buy myrrh-containing homeopathic rubbing oils and other essential oils meant to relieve pain when applied directly to sore body parts. However, these haven't been studied.</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Myrrh oil contains plant compounds that may temporarily relieve pain by signaling your brain that you're not in pain. It may also block your body's production of inflammatory chemicals that lead to swelling and pain.</p>5. May Be a Powerful Antioxidant
<p>Myrrh may be a powerful <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-high-in-antioxidants" target="_blank">antioxidant</a>, a compound that combats oxidative damage.</p><p>Oxidative damage from free radicals contributes to aging and some diseases.</p><p>A test-tube study found that myrrh oil was more effective than <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-high-in-vitamin-e" target="_blank">vitamin E</a>, a powerful antioxidant, at fighting free radicals (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15890469">24</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminE-HealthProfessional/">25</a>).</p><p>Additionally, in an animal study, myrrh oil helped protect the liver against lead-induced oxidative damage in direct proportion to the amount of myrrh given prior to lead exposure (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19818824">26</a>).</p><p>It isn't known whether inhaling myrrh oil or applying it topically—which are two safe uses of myrrh oil for people—helps protect your body against oxidative damage.</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Test-tube and animal studies show that myrrh oil is a powerful antioxidant and even more effective than vitamin E. However, human studies are needed.</p>6. Kills Some Parasites
<p>You can become infected with parasites from many sources, including pets, sexual activity and contaminated food or water (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/transmission/index.html">27</a>).</p><p>Two common parasitic infections in the US are trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted disease, and giardiasis, an intestinal infection (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/npi/index.html">28</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15023017">29</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cdc.gov/std/trichomonas/STDFact-Trichomoniasis.htm">30</a>).</p><p>In a preliminary study, women who failed to respond to standard drug treatment for trichomoniasis were given an oral drug, Mirazid, made of myrrh sap and its essential oil. About 85% of them were cured of the infection (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22737515">31</a>).</p><p>Additionally, an animal study found that the same myrrh drug effectively treated giardiasis (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21634251">32</a>).</p><p>Some human research suggests that this myrrh drug also may be effective against the parasite <em>Fasciola gigantica</em>, which can cause liver and bile duct diseases. However, other studies failed to see a benefit (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.scielo.br/pdf/ag/v47n4/v47n4a14.pdf">33</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23730566">34</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20503592">35</a>, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.emro.who.int/emhj-volume-16-2010/volume-16-issue-9/article-03.html">36</a>).</p><p>Mirazid is not widely prescribed at this time.</p><p>Though more research is needed, myrrh and its oil may prove helpful for treating parasites, especially in cases of drug resistance. Ingesting myrrh oil is not advised, and long-term safety must be assessed (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23569864">37</a>).</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Preliminary studies suggest that a myrrh-containing medicine may help treat some common parasites, but more research on its effectiveness and safety is needed.</p>7–10. Other Potential Benefits
<p>Scientists are testing other potential uses for myrrh oil and its beneficial compounds. The following applications are under study:</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;"><span></span><strong>7. Sunscreen: </strong>One test-tube study found that SPF 15 sunscreen with added myrrh oil was significantly more effective at blocking ultraviolet rays than the sunscreen alone. By itself, myrrh oil wasn't as effective as the sunscreen (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30124732">38</a>).</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;"><span></span><strong>8. Cancer: </strong>Test-tube studies suggest that myrrh oil may help kill or slow the growth of <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cancer-fighting-foods" target="_blank">cancer cells</a> from the liver, prostate, breast, and skin. However, this hasn't been tested in people (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29533080">39</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21372825">40</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24137478">41</a>).</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;"><span></span><strong>8. Gut health:</strong> One animal study indicates that myrrh compounds may help treat intestinal spasms related to irritable bowel syndrome. Another animal study suggests that myrrh may help treat <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/stomach-ulcer-remedies" target="_blank">stomach ulcers</a> (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25590370">42</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://file.scirp.org/Html/5-1900346_71702.htm">43</a>).</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;"><span></span><strong>10. Mold: </strong>Test-tube studies note that myrrh oil may help kill mold, including <em>Aspergillus niger</em>, which commonly appears as mildew on damp walls, and <em>A. flavus</em>, which causes spoilage and mold contamination of food (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.jocpr.com/articles/commiphora-myrrha-and-commiphora-africana-essential-oils.pdf">3</a>, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.jnus.org/pdf/1/2007/1/256.pdf">44</a>).</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Scientists are investigating other potential benefits of myrrh oil, including sunscreen effectiveness, cancer treatment, digestive health, and mold elimination.</p>11. Simple to Use
<p>Myrrh oil can be inhaled, applied topically, or used for oral care. It should not be swallowed.</p><p>Here are some general guidelines:</p><h3>Topical Use</h3><p>Due to the risk of skin irritation, it's best to dilute myrrh oil in a carrier oil, such as jojoba, almond, grapeseed, or <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-10-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-coconut-oil" target="_blank">coconut oil</a>. This also helps prevent the myrrh oil from evaporating too quickly (<a target="_blank" href="https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/">45</a>).</p><p>In general, use 3–6 drops of essential oil per 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of carrier oil for adults. This is considered a 2–4% dilution. For children, use 1 drop of essential oil per 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of carrier oil, which is a 1% dilution.</p><p>You can also add a drop or two of myrrh oil to unscented lotion or moisturizer before you apply it to your skin. Some people add myrrh oil to products used for massage.</p><p>Avoid applying the oil to sensitive areas, including your eyes and inner ears. Wash your hands with soapy water after handling essential oils to avoid accidental exposure to delicate areas.</p><h3>Inhaling</h3><p>You can add 3–4 drops of myrrh oil to a diffuser to distribute the oil as a fine mist into the surrounding air.</p><p>If you don't have a diffuser, you can simply place a few drops of the oil on a tissue or cloth and inhale periodically or add a few drops to hot water and inhale the steam.</p><p>One simple trick is to apply a few drops of myrrh oil to the cardboard tube inside a roll of toilet paper. When someone uses it, a bit of the aroma will be released.</p><h3>Combinations</h3><p>The earthy aroma of myrrh oil blends well with spicy, citrus, and floral <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/what-are-essential-oils" target="_blank">essential oils</a>, such as frankincense, lemon, and lavender, respectively.</p><p>The combination of myrrh and frankincense is especially popular — not only because of their complementary scents but also because of their synergy, or interaction that produces even greater benefits.</p><p>In test-tube studies, combined myrrh and frankincense oils improved their effectiveness against infectious bacteria and other microbes. About 11% of this improvement was due to synergistic interactions of the oils (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22288378">46</a>).</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p>You can apply diluted myrrh oil to your skin, diffuse it, or use it orally. The oil can be used alone or in combination with complementary oils, such as frankincense and lemon.</p>Potential Risks
<p>Like other essential oils, myrrh oil is very concentrated, so you only need a few drops at a time. Avoid diffusing it close to babies and young children, as it's uncertain how much they'll inhale and how much is safe.</p><p>Additionally, no one should swallow myrrh oil, as it can be toxic (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.usa-journals.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Albishri_Vol51.pdf">15</a>).</p><p>Some people should be especially cautious with myrrh oil and may need to avoid it entirely. Bear this in mind if any of the following conditions apply to you (<a target="_blank" href="https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/">45</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23671711">47</a>):</p><ul> <li><strong>Pregnancy and breastfeeding:</strong> Avoid myrrh oil if you're <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/supplements-during-pregnancy" target="_blank">pregnant</a>, as it can cause uterine contractions and may trigger miscarriage. Also avoid myrrh oil if you're breastfeeding, as its safety to your baby isn't known.</li></ul><ul> <li><strong>Blood-thinning drugs:</strong> Don't use myrrh if you're taking blood thinners, such as warfarin, as myrrh could decrease their effectiveness.</li></ul><ul> <li><strong>Heart problems:</strong> Large amounts of myrrh may affect your heart rate, so use myrrh oil with caution if you have a heart condition.</li></ul><ul> <li><strong>Diabetes: </strong>If you're taking diabetes medication, keep in mind that myrrh may lower <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/15-ways-to-lower-blood-sugar" target="_blank">blood sugar</a>. Therefore, this combination could potentially result in blood sugar that's too low.</li></ul><ul><li><strong>Surgery:</strong> Myrrh may interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery. Discontinue using myrrh products two weeks before surgery or as advised by your surgeon.</li></ul><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>If you're pregnant, have heart problems, are planning surgery, or take blood thinners or diabetes medications, you may want to limit or avoid myrrh oil.</p>The Bottom Line
<p>In addition to its pleasant, warm, and earthy scent, myrrh oil may also have several health benefits.</p><p>Studies suggest that it may help kill harmful bacteria, parasites, and other microbes. It may also support oral health, help heal skin sores, and ease pain and swelling.</p><p>However, the majority of these studies are in test tubes, animals, or small groups of people, so it's difficult to make any firm conclusions about its benefits.</p><p>If you want to try myrrh oil, dilute it in a carrier oil and apply it to your skin, or diffuse it to inhale the aroma. You can also buy products, such as mouthwash and ointments, that contain the oil.</p>Like many other plant-based foods and products, CBD oil is one dietary supplement where "organic" labels are very important to consumers. However, there are little to no regulations within the hemp industry when it comes to deeming a product as organic, which makes it increasingly difficult for shoppers to find the best CBD oil products available on the market.
Spruce
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDY4NjI3OC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyOTM2NzgzOX0.axY0HjeqRctJsR_KmDLctzDpUBLBN-oNIdqaXDb4caQ/img.jpg?width=980" id="774be" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="8379f35b1ca8a86d0e61b7d4bfc8b46e" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="spruce organic cbd oil" data-width="710" data-height="959" /><p>As one of the best brands in the business, Spruce CBD is well-known for its potent CBD oils that feature many additional beneficial phytocannabinoids. This brand works with two family-owned, sustainably focused farms in the USA (one located in Kentucky and one in North Carolina) to create its organic, small product batches. The max potency Spruce CBD oil contains 2400mg of full-spectrum CBD extract, but the brand also offers a lower strength tincture with 750mg of CBD in total.</p>CBDistillery
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDcwMjkzNC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyMTU4OTM4Nn0.ypRdeDSBcE87slYrFfVrRwtJ2qGIK6FD5jBB4pndTMo/img.jpg?width=980" id="b473b" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="9930b53c9d58cb49774640a61c3e3e75" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="cbdistillery cbd oil" data-width="1244" data-height="1244" /><p>All of the products from CBDistillery are <a href="https://ushempauthority.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Hemp Authority Certified</a>, and for good reason. The company only uses non-GMO and pesticide-free industrial hemp that's grown organically on Colorado farms. Its hemp oils are some of the most affordable CBD products on the market, yet they still maintain a high standard of quality. CBDistillery has a wide variety of CBD potencies across its product line (ranging from 500mg to 5000mg per bottle) and offers both full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD oils to give customers a completely thc-free option.</p>FAB CBD
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDY4NjIyNS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2NDIwOTEyMn0.MlTjz096FJ0ev_-soK7_Z-FeQeJczWoeh9Qi9SSkHsY/img.jpg?width=980" id="04b26" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="76aa4862f44603242e318982acea6646" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="fab cbd oil" data-width="800" data-height="800" /><p>For an organic CBD oil that has it all, FAB CBD offers plenty of variety for any type of consumer. All of its products are made with zero pesticides and extracted from organically grown Colorado industrial hemp. FAB CBD oil comes in five all-natural flavors (mint, vanilla, berry, citrus, and natural) and is also available in four strengths (300, 600, 1200, and 2400mg per bottle).</p>NuLeaf Naturals
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDY4NjIxOS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1NzExNTgyMX0.D6qMGYllKTsVhEkQ-L_GzpDHVu60a-tJKcio7M1Ssmc/img.jpg?width=980" id="94e4a" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="3609a52479675730893a45a82a03c71d" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="nuleaf naturals organic cbd oil" data-width="600" data-height="600" /><p>As an industry-leading brand, it comes as no surprise that NuLeaf Naturals sources its CBD extract from organic hemp plants grown on licensed farms in Colorado. The comany's CBD oils only contain two ingredients: USDA certified organic hemp seed oil and full spectrum hemp extract.</p><p>NuLeaf Naturals uses one proprietary CBD oil formula for all of its products, so you will get the same CBD potency in each tincture (60mg per mL), but can purchase different bottle sizes depending on how much you intend to use.</p>Charlotte's Web
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDcwMjk3NS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0MzQ0NjM4N30.SaQ85SK10-MWjN3PwHo2RqpiUBdjhD0IRnHKTqKaU7Q/img.jpg?width=980" id="84700" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="a2174067dcc0c4094be25b3472ce08c8" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="charlottes web cbd oil" data-width="1244" data-height="1244" /><p>Perhaps one of the most well-known brands in the CBD landscape, Charlotte's Web has been growing sustainable hemp plants for several years. The company is currently in the process of achieving official USDA Organic Certification, but it already practices organic and sustainable cultivation techniques to enhance the overall health of the soil and the hemp plants themselves, which creates some of the highest quality CBD extracts. Charlotte's Web offers CBD oils in a range of different concentration options, and some even come in a few flavor options such as chocolate mint, orange blossom, and lemon twist.</p>- Best CBD Oils of 2020: Reviews & Buying Guide - EcoWatch ›
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By Brian Barth
Synthetic fragrances are out, aromatherapy is in. From beauty products to insect repellent to room diffusers, folks are gravitating toward fragrances made by nature—not the lab. But what exactly are these quasi-mystical substances called essential oils? Are they farmed or foraged? What part of the plant do they come from? Can I produce my own? Here, we answer the seven most common questions we get about essential oils.
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By Nikki Yeager
Essential oils have enjoyed a boom in sales over the last decade as Western consumers search for alternatives to chemical-laden products that are toxic both to their bodies and to the planet. Since the first recorded essential oil blend was recorded in Egypt in 1,500 BC, people around the world have been using essential oils for their perceived medicinal properties. A market research study by Grand View Research estimates that the global essential oils market is expected to reach $11.67 billion by 2022. Such a high level of demand raises two vital questions: Where are all these essential oils coming from, and what is their impact on the environment?