Anxiety-Busters That Don't Require an Rx

Scents That Steady Your Nerves

The practice of using scented oils to cure ailments dates back to ancient times, and in Europe, aromatherapy is taken a little more seriously as an alternative medical treatment. While many of the clinical studies have been small or wishy-washy (as in, it may not be helpful... but it's not hurtful), a research review published in the February 2011 issue of the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine concluded that aromatherapy could quell anxiety.

Recommended dosage: For best results, bypass the scented body washes and lotions, which usually contain extra ingredients (e.g., emollients, alcohol) in favor of concentrated pure essential oils. If the vials of lavender, ylang ylang and chamomile oils at your local wellness shop give you a headache, try a more subtle blend, like these from 21 Drops.

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