Lavender: Lavender is one of the most soothing of scents. For this reason, it is often used in scented heating pads, eye masks and other healing objects. It is also available as an essential oil and in candles and other scented items. This soft, powdery floral is appealing to most people and is especially nice in the bedroom and bath. You can try growing your own lavender and drying it, too. Many women find lavender aromatherapy useful during childbirth.
Vanilla: Most people find the scent of vanilla both relaxing and comforting. It elicits thoughts of favorite foods and happy memories of home and childhood. Vanilla is a subtle fragrance and is often combined with other fragrances in pleasing ways. If you plan to use it for calming, make sure it has not been paired with anything that has an invigorating effect.
Ginger: Ginger is often used in aromatherapy to relax and reduce tension. It may also be useful for nervousness or anxiety. The scent is brisk, but it is also warm with deep calming undertones. The essential oil of ginger is sometimes used to treat muscle aches or cramps.
Lemon: The refreshing scent of lemon is commonly used to eliminate anxiety and stress. While it does have some energizing properties, it can calm anyone who is in distress. It also has a cleansing effect on the environment and is useful in clearing a space after a stressful event.
Chamomile: Chamomile tea has long been used to relax people. While drinking it works wonders, even the scent of chamomile has soothing properties. It can help with insomnia and bring peace to a stressful environment. It is sometimes paired with lavender or rose to give it floral tones, both of which will enrich the effects.
Sandalwood: Sandalwood is often associated with meditation. The same properties make it good for any type of peace-inducing aromatherapy. Sandalwood has a warm and woody scent that has great depth; it is especially nice when paired with rose for a fragrant and relaxing combination.
Bergamot: Bergamot has been scientifically proven to relax and soothe; sniffing it actually has a marked effect on the brainwaves. In addition to calming, it has an anti-depressant effect and can be used to treat insomnia, anxiety and stress-related disorders.
Ylang ylang: The sensual fragrance of ylang ylang is a light and refreshing floral. It inspires balance as well as a sense of calm and relaxation. When paired with bergamot, it is especially effective for relaxation and meditation.
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