Essential Oils to Manage the Symptoms of ADHD

Essential Oils to Manage the Symptoms of ADHD

Essential oils are extracts taken from the leaves, roots, stems, flowers, and bark of certain plants and are distilled into a concentrated form. These oils have been used to improve physical and mental health for a long time now, and experts believe that these oils can influence, and even improve, a person’s mood and emotions.

However, due to their high concentration levels, essential oils can sometimes cause adverse reactions, so it’s advised to perform an allergy test before using them and discontinue usage if there are any signs of an allergic reaction. Apart from that, it is always advisable to use a carrier oil like olive or coconut oil when applying essential oils on the skin. The following is a list of oils that can be used as natural treatments for ADHD, and they can be applied on the soles of the feet, the neck, chest, forehead, arms, and legs.

However, avoid using them close to the eyes, and always consult an aromatherapist before using essential oils as natural treatments for ADHD, especially in the case of children:

  • Rosemary oil
    Rosemary oil improves concentration and also helps keep the mind alert. One can sprinkle a few drops on their hand and inhale it or use a diffuser.
  • Frankincense oil
    Frankincense oil is believed to increase attention span and calm anxiety. It can be used as a natural treatment for ADHD as it helps patients stay focused and reduces stress and negative emotions.
  • Vetiver oil
    Vetiver oil is known for its calming effects and helps one remain focused and alert, and it also helps with learning and memory processes. One can inhale this oil by adding a few drops to an aromatherapy diffuser.
  • Cedarwood oil
    Cedarwood oil has calming and relaxing properties. When inhaled, the fragrance promotes the release of serotonin, which can be very helpful for ADHD patients as serotonin helps regulate mood and social behavior.
  • Lavender oil
    Lavender oil is known to soothe anxiety and calm the nervous system. People with ADHD can benefit from using it as it improves sleep quality and reduces emotional stress. A few drops can be put in an aromatherapy diffuser for relaxation.
  • Peppermint oil
    Peppermint oil is known for helping to calm the body and improve mental focus. It can also relieve tired muscles, and ADHD patients can add a few drops of this oil to their bath to relax.
  • Sandalwood oil
    This oil helps achieve mental clarity and has a calming and relaxing effect. It can be put on one’s clothes or on the wrist to inhale its sweet smell.
  • Chamomile oil
    Chamomile oil helps reduce stress and anxiety. One can use this as a natural treatment for ADHD by putting a few drops on their pillowcase to get a good night’s sleep. Additionally, chamomile flowers can be used in tea.
  • Mandarin oil
    Mandarin oil has a fruity aroma that helps boost concentration and reduces anxiety levels. One can use a carrier oil like coconut oil to apply this or directly use it in a diffuser.