Using Essential Oils for Addiction Recovery

Lavender essential oil is arguably one of the best-known and most studied oils to treat anxiety and uplift mood. Many aromatherapy studies have suggested that inhaling lavender oil provides relief for anxiety symptoms; the relief is short-term.

Another study has suggested that oral lavender preparations can reduce anxiety symptoms more than a placebo. Additional studies or trials have not confirmed the findings.

Sleep disruptions and restlessness are common in recovery. Using a few drops of diluted lavender oil in an electric diffuser or on a cotton pad near your pillow (not touching skin directly) may help you relax at bedtime. Always patch-test and use a carrier oil if using topically to prevent skin irritations. Most importantly, consult your doctor if you take medications affecting the brain’s neurotransmitters.

Ginger essential oil (from ginger root, Zingiber officinale) is widely accepted for its ability to reduce an upset stomach or nausea. Stomach issues or nausea may become a problem in detox, particularly opiate withdrawal. If that happens, gentle inhalation or diluted topical use may offer minor relief.

Clinical trials on withdrawal are limited, but ginger’s stomach-soothing properties are well known. Anecdotal reports of its use date back centuries. Use it sparingly and diluted, and discontinue if any irritation or discomfort occurs.

Rosemary essential oil therapy may increase alertness and mental clarity. Inhaling rosemary oil or sprinkling a few drops into bath water may help ease brain fog during the recovery process.

However, rosemary is a more stimulating oil. Using it for addiction recovery may not suit every person. Use in lighter dilution and avoid in people with certain seizure disorders or hypertension. Pregnant women should not use it.

Lemon essential oil is bright and uplifting. During the emotional lows of early recovery, inhaling lemon oils can be an excellent form of self-care. Lemon also pairs nicely with bergamot — another citrus oil with mood-boosting qualities. Lemon-bergamot blends are a classic aromatherapy pairing.

Peppermint oil has many benefits backed by research. In one study of post-operative patients experiencing nausea, inhaling peppermint oil reduced nausea.

In the context of detox and withdrawal, peppermint may provide mild relief of stomach discomfort. A single drop on a tissue can be an effective way to inhale it, but be cautious not to overdo it, as it can be strong.

Roman chamomile, Chamaemelum nobile, can be helpful for anti-anxiety and supporting better sleep. While the mechanism behind it’s effectiveness isn’t understood, a systematic review of clinical trials reported that 9 studies found chamomile effective for relaxation.

It’s wonderful blended into a fragrant massage oil and applied to the entire body.

Grapefruit oil is similar to lemon – citrusy and invigorating. Some use it in a wellness setting to reduce cravings or boost a depressed mood.

Dilute it and use it only when staying indoors. It’s phototoxic, so your skin should not have direct sun exposure after application. It’s also vital to understand that it can impact liver enzymes and medications.

Store Essential Oils Properly in Dark Containers

Many people find it worth trying to use essential oils for addiction recovery. If you buy them, it’s important to know how to store them for maximum efficacy. Never transfer the products to plastic containers; they’re best left unchanged.

They usually come in dark glass containers, which help protect them from light, which can spoil them. Keep them in those containers to help them retain their healing properties.