Essential Oils for OCD: Do They Really Work?

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a severe mental illness. It’s the fourth most common psychiatric disorder characterized by obsessive thoughts and compulsive or repetitive behavior.

People with OCD have uncontrollable thoughts and a habit of repeating a particular ritual. It’s a severe disorder that can keep you from living a normal life.

The symptoms of OCD may occur due to obsessions or compulsions. Some patients have both obsessions and compulsions.

Some patients can hide the symptoms from their friends and family, making the treatment more difficult. But, this disorder can affect your job, study, and life. So, it’s important to go for treatment as soon as possible.

While you are undergoing treatment, you can also try some essential oils for OCD to manage some of the symptoms.

Essential oils contain calming and sedative properties. These properties can help reduce anxiety, stress and keep you calm and relaxed.

This article looks into some essential oils to manage OCD symptoms.

Essential Oils for OCD

While OCD is not entirely curable, using essential oils with proper treatment may help you manage the symptoms. Here are some essential oils for OCD you can try:

1. Lavender Oil

Lavender oil originates from the flowers of Lavandula angustifolia through steam distillation. It is one of the most used oils for reducing anxiety and stress.

Thirty men ages between 24 and 40 years participated in a study in 2008. Results show that aromatherapy using lavender oil can induce relaxation.

In another research, lavender oil capsule successfully reduced anxiety and stress to the participants who were asked to see the anxiety-provoking film.

Lavender essential oil has calming effects. It can ease nervousness and anxiety, providing a sense of calm and well-being.

2. Frankincense Oil

General anxiety is a common symptom of OCD. You always feel an urge of doing a particular task repeatedly, and end up being anxious and stressed.

Frankincense oil has anxiolytic effects. Inhalation of this oil can calm the nerves and tone down anxiety.

Research published in the International Journal of Basic & Clinical Pharmacology shows the anxiolytic effects of frankincense oil in Swiss albino mice.

3. Geranium Oil

Geranium oil is derived from the stems, flowers, and leaves of the geranium plant. It is a commonly used ingredient in aromatherapy due to its numerous health benefits.

Anxiety and fear are two significant effects of OCD that lead to repetitive thought patterns. Geranium oil can reduce those feelings and provide an instant soothing effect.

Research published in the Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice shows that aromatherapy using geranium oil could reduce anxiety among patients with AMI.

If you have anxiety issues due to OCD, you may also be benefitted using this essential oil.

4. Rosemary Oil

Rosemary oil is a popular ingredient in culinary. But, this essential oil is also claimed to have positive effects on human neurons, that may reduce the effects of OCD.

Research published in the Holistic Nursing Practice shows the positive effects of rosemary oil in reducing stress, anxiety in graduating nursing students.

Another study was published in 2009. It shows the anti-anxiety effects of rosemary oil on animal subjects.

Regular use of this essential oil may also soothe the symptoms of OCD.

5. Valerian Oil

Valerian oil originates from the root of Valeriana Officinalis through steam distillation. This essential oil is quite popular for its anxiolytic and sedative effects.

A study published in 2004 shows valerian oil’s significant impact on the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain of rats. This oil may significantly calm anxiety and improve sleep.

Another research published in 2011 shows the positive effects of valerian in improving sleep and reduce anxiety. However, the evidence is not sufficient to prove its efficacy in soothing anxiety.

6. Ylang Ylang Oil

Ylang ylang oil is derived from the flowers of Cananga odorata through steam distillation.

This essential oil can be either calming or stimulating. It can be quite useful when you need to deal with your anger and stress.

A study published in 2014 shows the positive effects of ylang ylang oil is soothing anxiety and stress.

According to a study published in the Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine reveals the calming and relaxing effects of this essential oil.

7. Chamomile Oil

Stress and anxiety due to OCD may also affect your sleep. Together, they can lead to depression.

The sedative effect of chamomile oil can improve your sleep and your emotional state.

In a study published in 2017, inhalation of Roman chamomile oil reduces the depressive behaviors in Wister Kyoto rats.

Another study published in the Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, 57 people with different anxiety issues participated. Some of them were treated with chamomile-infused capsules, while others received a placebo.

Results show a significant reduction of anxiety in the chamomile group.

How to Use Essential Oils for OCD

You can use essential oils in various ways to reduce the symptoms of OCD. You can use them topically or through inhalation based on your preference.

Diffusion:

Pour a few drops of any essential oil into a diffuser. Let the aroma spread to your home and enjoy their calming effects. You can place the diffuser beside your bed if you have trouble sleeping.

Topical Application:

Take a few drops essential oil and dilute it with a suitable carrier oil. Apply this oil mix to your neck, back, feet, and wrist.

Causes and Symptoms of OCD

The exact reason behind OCD is still unknown. But a study published in the Psychiatric Clinics of North America says that genetic and environmental factors could be responsible for someone to have OCD. Brain structure and functioning can be another reason behind this condition.

The symptoms of OCD depends on some criteria. They can happen due to obsession, compulsion or both.

The common symptoms of OCD include:

Obsessive thinking
Loss of control over behavior and thoughts.
Strong aversions and against taboos, such as sex, violence, religions.
Extreme anxiety when interfered during a ritual.
Urge to maintain a certain order or pattern.
Drive for excessive cleaning and washing.
Checking things repeatedly.
Irrational fear about bacteria and germs.

OCD: When to See a Therapist

OCD is a severe mental problem. The more you ignore this problem, the more damaging it may become. That’s why you must consult a psychiatrist if you suspect OCD in you or your loved one.

Your therapist may suggest you go for cognitive behavioral therapy, along with some medications. Follow the instructions carefully to keep your emotions in control.

Some Lifestyle Hacks to Manage OCD

While you’re under treatment, you can also bring some changes to your lifestyle. A positive change in your daily routine may help reduce stress, anxiety, and other symptoms of OCD.

A study shows that meditation and mindfulness practices can significantly decrease OCD symptoms. Try to practice medication every day to keep yourself focused and calm.
Try to get enough sleep to reduce anxiety and stress.
Spend more time with friends and family. This social support can help you control the symptoms of OCD.
Do regular exercises to reduce stress.
Educate yourself about OCD. Read blogs, articles, and talk to people about how they manage their symptoms.

Conclusion

OCD is a psychiatric problem that often remains untreated. While most of us don’t understand the severity of this illness, things may get worse if not treated on time.

If you think you have OCD, don’t get upset. With proper treatment and lifestyle change, you can learn how to manage this disorder.

Stay positive and learn how to deal with it. Join some social groups and share your experience with them. Consult a psychiatrist as soon as you detect the symptoms.

You can also try these above-mentioned essential oils alongside with your treatment. But do not forget to ask your doctor first if you’re under medication.

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