“Are essential oils good for anxiety?”

Essential oils may provide a false sense of recovery. If establishing a calm environment is important oils or candles may provide a mild impact. Therapy would be more beneficial. Sent via the Samsung Galaxy S23 5G, an AT&T 5G smartphone

Essential oils can sometimes have calming effects when used for aromatherapy, but essential oils when ingested or used topically can have other effects on the body and are not approved for the treatment of anxiety.

They might, but research on its effectiveness has been mixed. I've included a link from Johns Hopkins that talks more about aromatherapy. In general, with any treatment, always do your research and consult with professionals about their efficacy. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/aromatherapy-do-essential-oils-really-work

Using essential oils as a sensory grounding technique can be helpful when one is experiencing anxiety. Engaging the senses can help an individual refocus their energy or attention to the present which helps distract/interrupt anxious thoughts. Depending on how intense the anxious thoughts are, more than one coping skill may be necessary. Combining a sensory coping skill with a thought-based coping skill can be more effective. Best Regards, Dr. Jennifer Daffon, PsyD daffoncounseling@gmail.com www.emotesy.com