11 Best Calming Essential Oil Blends for Relaxation

Ever felt the weight of stress, agitation, and anxiety in the chaos of daily life? It’s a common struggle many of us face, battling against the demands of the modern world. 

Aromatherapy can be a natural stress relief remedy. Your olfactory system influences the brain’s emotion regulation, making aromatherapy a tool to reduce stress and anxiety for a general state of calm.

Here are our top picks for essential oil blends known for their calming and relaxing benefits:

• Relax Essential Oil Blend
• Chill Out Essential Oil Blend
• Serenity Essential Oil Blend
• Peace Essential Oil Blend

These pre-blended oils are expertly crafted to provide a calming and relaxing experience. But if you want to go the DIY route, you might want to try these DIY recipes of essential oils to relax you.

If you are looking to go with the DIY route and make your own recipes for essential oil blends, in this article, we will also cover the best essential oils for relaxing and calming. So, you’ll know exactly what oils to choose when you are crafting your custom blend

Pre-mixed – Essential Oil Calming Blends

Plant Therapy – Relax Essential Oil Blend

Created to enhance relaxation and promote a calming state of mind, Relax Essential Oil Blend combines Lavender, Marjoram, Mandarin, Patchouli, Geranium Egyptian, and Chamomile Roman.

• Benefits: Promotes a relaxing environment, helps calm overactive thinking, and encourages a sense of ease.
• Safety: KidSafe, Nursing Safe, Pregnancy Safe, Pup & Pony Safe.

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Plant Therapy – Chill Out Essential Oil Blend

Formulated to induce peace and calm, Chill Out Essential Oil Blend features Tangerine, Ylang Ylang, Patchouli, Sweet Orange, and Blue Tansy.

• Benefits: Encourages a peaceful sense of well-being, helps reduce feelings of nervous tension, and is great for anyone looking to quit smoking.
• Safety: KidSafe, Pregnancy Safe.

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doTERRA – Serenity Essential Oil Blend

A blend of Lavender, Cedarwood, Coriander, Ylang Ylang, Marjoram, Roman Chamomile, Vetiver, Sandalwood, Tonka Bean, and Vanilla Absolute.

• Benefits: Creates a calming atmosphere, provides a relaxing aroma, and encourages a tranquil environment at bedtime.

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doTERRA – Peace Essential Oil Blend

A reassuring blend of floral and mint essential oils. doTERRA Peace is a blend of Vetiver Root, Lavender Flower, Ylang Ylang Flower, Frankincense Resin, Clary Sage Flower, Marjoram Leaf, Labdanum Twig Absolute, and Spearmint Leaf/Flower

• Benefits: Provides a calming, peaceful aroma and complements affirmations of peace, reassurance, and contentment.

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Plant Therapy – Worry-Free Essential Oil Blend

A powerfully relaxing blend, Worry-Free Essential Oil Blend includes Lavender, Sweet Marjoram, Ylang Ylang Complete, Australian Sandalwood, Peru Balsam, and Roman Chamomile.

• Benefits: Encourages positive thinking, promotes a relaxed state of mind, and helps calm feelings of fear and worry.
• Safety: Pup & Pony Safe.

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Plant Therapy – Blues Buster Essential Oil Blend

Crafted to increase overall emotional well-being, Blues Buster Essential Oil Blend offers a green, citrusy aroma featuring Tangerine, Pink Grapefruit and Bourbon Geranium

• Benefits: Helps ease emotional tension, encourages positive thinking, and promotes a calm atmosphere.
• Safety: KidSafe, Pregnancy Safe, Nursing Safe, Pup & Pony Safe.

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Plant Therapy – Balance Essential Oil Blend

A calming floral blend supporting women’s emotional well-being during their menstrual cycle, Balance Essential Oil Blend includes Palmarosa, Lavender, Petitgrain, Clary Sage, Geranium Bourbon, Ylang Ylang Complete, Neroli, Rose, and Jasmine Absolute.

• Benefits: Helps balance turbulent emotions, supports women’s health, and provides a calming and centering effect.
• Safety: KidSafe, Nursing Safe, Pup & Pony Safe.

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Plant Therapy – Meditation Essential Oil Blend

Specifically crafted to enhance meditation and yoga practices, Meditation Essential Oil Blend includes Sweet Orange, Patchouli, Frankincense, Clary Sage, Ylang Ylang, and Thyme Thymol.

• Benefits: Encourages a clear state of mind, promotes calm alertness, and enhances meditation and yoga practices.

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doTERRA – Adaptiv Essential Oil Blend

Formulated with Wild Orange, Lavender, Copaiba, Spearmint, Magnolia, Rosemary, Neroli, and Sweetgum.

• Benefits: Provides a bright, sweet, citrusy, and floral aroma. Helps create a tranquil environment and soothes, relaxes, and uplifts when diffused.

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Revive – Stress Easy Essential Oil Blend

A safe, natural blend to ease feelings of anxiety and promote a sense of calm, including Copaiba, Lime, Cedarwood, Lavender, Vanilla CO2, and Ocotea essential oils.

• Benefits: Promotes a whole-body sense of relaxation, may help ease anxious feelings, and boosts mental clarity.

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Revive – Calm Essential Oil Blend

Creates a calming atmosphere with a relaxing aroma, featuring Lavender Flower, Cedarwood, Ho Wood Leaf, Ylang Ylang Flower, Marjoram Leaf, Roman Chamomile Flower, Vetiver Root, Vanilla Bean Absolute, and Hawaiian Sandalwood essential oils.

• Benefits: Promotes restful sleep, helps unwind, and induces relaxation.

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DIY – Essential Oil Calming Blends

How to make the Perfect Essential Oil Diffuser Blend

When you’re diving into the world of essential oil blending for your diffuser, it’s good to keep a few things in mind:

First off, about 5–10 drops of essential oil should do the trick, but feel free to tweak it based on how strong you want the fragrance and what your diffuser recommends.

Now, when it comes to where you place your diffuser, think stable surface, eye-level, and as close to the middle of the room as possible. This helps spread the scent evenly.

If you’re just starting out with essential oil blends, it’s cool to stick with scents you already know. It makes getting the hang of blending oils a bit easier before you start mixing and matching with different aromas.

And speaking of mixing, if you’re aiming for a certain effect – like wanting to chill out or get an energy boost – pick 2 to 5 oils that fit the vibe.

Before you drop those oils into your diffuser, though, give them a sniff test. Either smell the bottles together or, for a more accurate whiff, put a few drops of each oil on a cotton swab and take a good whiff.

Now, if you’re getting fancy and categorizing your oils by notes, make sure you have one from the top, one from the middle, and one from the base. It keeps things balanced.

And don’t forget to label your creation. It helps keep track of what’s in it and how it changes as it wafts through your space. Happy blending!

Best Essential Oils for Calming and Relaxing

1. Lavender Essential Oil: Nature’s Stress Reliever

Lavender, with its sweet floral scent, is a powerhouse in the realm of essential oils. Lavender oil’s anxiolytic properties, backed by a 2019 review of 71 studies, have been shown to significantly lower anxiety levels. Additionally, a 2013 study demonstrated the effectiveness of aromatherapy using lavender oil in reducing workplace stress. Whether in a diffuser, applied topically, or combined with other oils, lavender is a versatile stress-reliever for beginners and experts alike.

2. Sandalwood: Earthy Elegance for Anxiety Reduction

Sandalwood essential oil, derived from the East Indian sandalwood tree, boasts an earthy and warm aroma. While a small 2006 study showed promising results in reducing anxiety, further research is warranted. Whether diffused, applied topically, or inhaled, sandalwood provides a grounding experience that resonates with those seeking serenity.

3. Marjoram: The Unsung Hero of Calm

Marjoram essential oil, with its warm and comforting scent, has been used for centuries to reduce tension and uneasiness. While it may not be in the spotlight, marjoram’s anxiety-relieving benefits deserve attention. Whether inhaled or applied topically, this underrated gem provides a sense of calm and relaxation.

4. Clary Sage: Taming Stress Hormones

Clary sage, a flowering herb native to the Mediterranean basin, stands out in addressing stress by impacting cortisol, the stress hormone. A 2014 study showcased clary sage’s effectiveness in decreasing cortisol levels and producing an antidepressant-like effect for menopausal women. Whether diffused or applied directly, this essential oil offers a calming effect worth exploring.

5. Rose: A Floral Elixir for Relaxation

Distilled from delicate flowers, rose essential oil not only captivates with its floral aroma but also carries stress-reducing properties. A 2009 study demonstrated significant decreases in breathing rate, blood oxygen saturation, and systolic blood pressure when rose oil was applied topically. The study participants reported feeling much more relaxed after the treatment. Additionally, a 2014 study involving over 100 pregnant women found that rose oil lowered anxiety levels during delivery.

6. Bergamot: Citrusy Bliss for Stress Reduction

Bergamot essential oil, with its citrus aroma, emerges as an anxiolytic oil that may help reduce stress and promote relaxation. A 2017 study found that inhaling bergamot oil for 15 minutes improved positive feelings of participants in a mental health treatment center’s waiting room. However, caution is advised as bergamot has photosensitive properties that can react to the sun when applied topically.

7. Valerian: Ancient Roots for Modern Relaxation

Valerian essential oil, derived from the roots of the plant, has a bold scent that may be described as woody, earthy, or musky. The 2020 review on valerian highlighted its benefits for sleep and anxiety, with positive outcomes observed in seven studies. Valerian’s mild sedative effect makes it a potential ally for those seeking relaxation and improved sleep. 

8. Frankincense: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Stress

Frankincense essential oil, extracted from the Boswellia tree, has been used for centuries for its calming and grounding properties. A 2019 study on rats suggested that topical application of frankincense oil counteracted the effects of stress. A 2020 review notes that two studies of frankincense aromatherapy significantly reduced anxiety in women during labor. 

While human studies are limited, frankincense’s historical significance makes it a compelling choice for stress management. Additionally, research suggests that inhaling frankincense can help reduce heart rate and high blood pressure — common symptoms of stress.

9. Orange: Citrusy Upliftment for Mental Well-being

Orange essential oil, with its citrusy scent, has been used for centuries to improve mental health and reduce anxiety. The main component, limonene, exhibits anti-anxiety effects on the central nervous system. A 2012 study found that participants who inhaled sweet orange essential oil didn’t experience an increase in anxiety or tension during an anxiety-inducing situation. The bright scent, combined with the calming effect, creates a balanced mood perfect for meditation.

10. Chamomile: Daisy-like Dreams of Relaxation

Chamomile essential oil, derived from the daisy-like flowers of the chamomile plant, is known for its sedative effects and pleasant scent. Research supports its role in reducing symptoms of moderate to severe generalized anxiety disorder, as highlighted in a 2017 study. Whether diffused or applied before bedtime, chamomile oil can be a soothing addition to your relaxation routine. A 2018 study found that chamomile therapy helped reduce anxiety symptoms and increased morning cortisol levels.

11. Ginger: A Zesty Shield Against Stress

Ginger, renowned for its culinary uses, also extends its benefits to stress reduction. A 2011 animal study revealed that ginger extract provided protection against stress-related brain damage in rats. Another study emphasized ginger’s potential in reducing anxiety symptoms, offering a natural remedy for stress-induced challenges. Beyond stress relief, ginger is celebrated for additional benefits, including relief from nausea, arthritis, digestive upset, colds, and migraines.

12. Sweet Basil: Crisp Aromas Soothing the Mind

Sweet basil essential oil, derived from the herb used in marinara sauce, contributes to stress relief with its crisp, herbal scent. While research on sweet basil for anxiety is limited, a 2015 study in mice showcased the phenol compounds in sweet basil oil relieving anxiety and exhibiting a sedative effect. In a 2018 study, sweet basil extract demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, coupled with reductions in anxiety-like behavior in mice. Despite limited human studies, sweet basil’s aromatic charm makes it a potential ally in calming the mind.

How to Use Calming Essential Oils

1. Diffuse:

Transform your space into a haven by diffusing essential oils. Whether using a dedicated diffuser or simply placing a few drops in a bowl of hot water, let the soothing aromas envelop your surroundings.

2. Cotton Ball Sniffing:

For a quick and direct inhalation method, add a few drops of your chosen essential oil to a cotton ball. Hold it close, take a deep breath, and let the calming scents ease your mind.

3. Bath Time Bliss:

Elevate your bath experience by adding a few drops of stress-relieving essential oil to warm water. Immerse yourself in the calming embrace, turning your bath into a sanctuary of relaxation.

4. Fabric Spray:

Spritz a blend of essential oils onto your fabrics to infuse your personal spaces with tranquility. From linens to curtains, enjoy the subtle, calming fragrance throughout your home.

5. Essential Oils Jewelry:

Carry the calming essence with you by incorporating essential oils into your jewelry. Whether through diffuser necklaces or bracelets, enjoy a subtle, personal diffusion of tranquility.

Tips for Safe and Effective Use

Essential oils are potent allies for stress relief when used with care. Here are practical tips for incorporating them into your routine:

1. Dilute Properly:

Before applying essential oils directly to your skin, dilute them with a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil. A safe ratio is 1-2 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil, ensuring a gentle application.

2. Inhalation:

Embrace the benefits of essential oils through inhalation. Utilize an aromatherapy diffuser or simply take a moment to breathe in the soothing scent directly from the bottle.

3. Bath Time Relaxation:

Enhance your bath with a few drops of your preferred stress-relieving essential oil. Let the warm water and calming aroma create a spa-like experience for total relaxation.

4. Massage Therapy:

Combine the power of diluted essential oils with massage techniques to alleviate tension and soothe anxiety. Enjoy the dual benefits of tactile comfort and aromatic relaxation.

As you embark on this aromatic journey, remember that essential oils, when used wisely, can be your steadfast companions in the pursuit of a tranquil and stress-free existence.

More Ways to Calm Your Mind and Relax

In the midst of stress and anxiety, simplistic advice like “just calm down” may fall short. However, here are nine effective techniques to swiftly bring calm to your body and mind:

Mindful Breathing:

• Engage in the 4-7-8 breathing technique:
• Inhale quietly through your nose for 4 seconds.
• Hold your breath for 7 seconds.
• Exhale forcefully through your mouth with a “whooshing” sound for 8 seconds.
• Repeat as needed for instant relaxation.

Count to 10 (or 20):

• Close your eyes and count slowly to divert your focus from stress. Extend to 20 or count backward for added calming benefits.

Chew Gum:

• The rhythmic act of chewing gum boosts blood flow to the brain, enhancing concentration and maintaining composure during moments of anxiety.

Phone a Funny Friend:

• Connect with a loved one, preferably someone who brings joy. Laughter releases endorphins, instantly improving your mood and reducing tension.

Pet Therapy:

• Spend just 10 minutes with your cat or dog, indulging in the calming effects of petting. This simple act reduces stress hormones and promotes an overall sense of calmness.

Listen to Soothing Music:

• Choose calming tunes devoid of frantic beats or melancholic lyrics. Close your eyes, focus on the rhythm, and even sing along if you wish – studies show singing releases endorphins.

Physical Activity:

• Take a brisk 15-minute walk outdoors to clear your head and release stress. If indoors, engage in activities like jumping jacks, stair climbing, or a quick spin on an exercise bike.

Mind and Spirit Exercise:

• Incorporate practices like yoga, meditation, journaling, self-massage, or even a short nap to nurture your mental and spiritual well-being.

Conclusion

When I need to unwind, essential oil blends are my go-to. I love the ready-made serenity of Plant Therapy’s Relax Essential Oil Blend or the calming touch of doTERRA’s Serenity Oil. But, when I want something unique, I dive into the DIY route, choosing oils that resonate with me. Whether it’s a pre-mixed gem or my personalized creation, these blends are my secret to relaxation. Try it for yourself, and let the soothing scents guide you to tranquility.