When it comes to managing ADHD, finding strategies that work can feel like a never-ending journey. Medications, therapy, and lifestyle changes are often part of the equation, but did you know that essential oils may have a role to play too?
While they're not a miracle cure, certain essential oils have gained popularity for their potential to help with focus, calmness, and overall well-being. In this article, we’ll dive into the research and our own experience with using essential oils to unlock focus, improve attention, and manage the challenges of ADHD.
What’s the Deal with Essential Oils?
Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that capture the natural fragrance and beneficial compounds of plants. They’re often used for aromatherapy, a practice believed to have both psychological and physical benefits. The right oils can help promote relaxation, improve mood, and even boost cognitive function. For people with ADHD, these benefits may translate into improved concentration, reduced anxiety, and enhanced productivity.
Science: Uncovered
While essential oils can’t replace the treatment prescribed by healthcare professionals, several studies suggest they might complement ADHD management. A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that inhaling certain essential oils could help improve concentration and attention. This is particularly significant for those with ADHD, who often struggle with focus and staying on task.
Peppermint Oil
This minty favorite is known for its invigorating scent. Some research suggests peppermint oil can help increase alertness, concentration, and mental clarity, making it a great oil to use when you need a mental boost.
THOUGHTS
Peppermint: The first time we used peppermint oil, it was during a homework session. The kids were all over the place, and we needed something to focus them. A diffuser filled with peppermint oil helped to clear the air (literally and figuratively), and it did seem to encourage more concentration during study time.
Lavender Oil
Lavender is often associated with relaxation, but it also has calming effects that can be beneficial for those with ADHD. Reducing anxiety and stress can help create a mental space where focus is easier to achieve.
THOUGHTS
Lavender: We love lavender for its calming properties. After a long day, we used it during bedtime routines to help the kids wind down. While lavender wasn’t a direct focus booster, it did help reduce the pre-bedtime restlessness that can interfere with sleep.
Cedarwood Oil
Known for its grounding properties, cedarwood can promote calmness and focus. For individuals with ADHD, creating a stable mental environment can help reduce distractions and improve task completion.
THOUGHTS
Cedarwood: Cedarwood’s grounding scent was perfect for creating a calm environment during chaotic afternoons. It definitely helped to slow down the mind and promoted a sense of stability.
Vetiver Oil
Vetiver is a lesser-known oil with a reputation for its grounding and calming effects. It has been linked to improved concentration, making it a good option for individuals with ADHD.
THOUGHTS
Bath Soak: Adding a few drops of lavender or vetiver to your bath can help you unwind and relax, reducing stress and anxiety—both of which are often exacerbated by ADHD.
Rosemary Oil
This herb is more than just a kitchen staple. Rosemary has been found to support memory and cognitive function, which can be helpful for those looking to boost their attention span.
THOUGHTS
We’ve tested this oil on the forehead during a headache, and it works. Common areas to apply oils like this include the wrists, temples, and the back of the neck. It’s important to dilute essential oils with a carrier oil to avoid skin irritation. However, I personally use this oil directly on my skin without experiencing any irritation.
OUR OPINION
Essential oils are worth trying if you're managing ADHD and are looking for a natural way to support focus and well-being. While they may not cure everything, they provide a lovely, holistic way to complement other treatments.
Remember, what works for one person may not work for another, so experiment with different oils and methods to find what suits you best.
What's In Our Bathroom?
Welcome to the epicenter of chaos and self-care: our bathroom.
It’s a magical space where rubber ducks and essential oils live in perfect harmony.
Over the past month, we’ve been putting the following oils to the test right here in our own bathroom.
Peppermint Essential Oil
Need to feel alive? This one is like sticking your head in the freezer while someone yells, “Get it together!” We’re testing this Peppermint Oil by PUROLEO to wake up a scalp, soothe muscles, and occasionally clear out sinuses. So far, it’s a winner—though my kiddo may have cried a little when it got too close to the eyes.
Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender is basically therapy in liquid form. Bad day? Dab it on your wrists. Can’t sleep? Add a few drops to your pillow. We’re working with a bottle of Lavender Oil by AVATRA, and it’s so good even the pets seem calmer. Or maybe they’re just judging us less harshly now. (Psst, lavender grown in Bulgaria is also a huge plus).
Cedarwood Essential Oil
Ever wanted your bathroom to smell like a lumberjack just walked through? That’s cedarwood oil. We use Cedarwood Essential Oil by KRIAA Goodness
in our hair, pretending it makes us rugged and mysterious. Does it work? Unclear, but our bathroom now smells like a treehouse, so we’re calling it a win.
Vetiver Essential Oil
Vetiver is like a warm hug from a log cabin in the middle of a forest. Earthy, grounding, and perfect for when you need a “Don’t talk to me, I’m calming down” moment. We’ve been using Vetiver Essential Oil by HIQILI in bedtime diffusers, and let’s just say bedtime stories are now accompanied by a deep sense of "sleepy-kitty" (and occasionally snoring).
Save 10% promo code: 959QC3VS65AJ
Rosemary Essential Oil
Rosemary oil is our secret weapon for hair that might be plotting its escape. We’re massaging KRIAA Rosemary Essential Oil into our scalps like we’re auditioning for a shampoo commercial. Early results: tingly scalps and a deep-seated hope that we’re one step closer to mermaid hair.
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