Aromatherapy has taken the world by storm over the past few years. It seems like everyone knows what essential oils are and what they can do—but they’re not quite sure which kinds to try first! Luckily, essential oils are very versatile and can work for many different kinds of needs. Addiction is no exception—there’s oils that can help to deplete cravings, make you more relaxed or energized, and brighten your mood.
- Lemon: Much like the citrus fruit, lemon is uplifting, with a bright, clean smell. Lemon can help to improve your mood and clear your head, as well as diminish cravings. Some people even like to just keep lemon oil in the kitchen—you can use it to clean your counter tops, use it while you’re cleaning dishes, or use it to sanitize.
Try sticking a bowl with water and 5 drops of lemon into the microwave – heat until the water is bubbling. Then, you can easily wipe out all the grime from your microwave. It might be pushing it, but using essential oils in your cleaning makes it all the more fun. And it provides positive mental benefits, as well—you’ll immediately feel in a better mood once you’ve smelled a lemon scent,
- Eucalyptus: Whenever you can’t breathe out of your nose, eucalyptus oil should be your go-to. Try diffusing lemon and eucalyptus for a brightening blend that will help clear your airways and your mind.
- Ginger: This is everyone’s go-to for any stomach ailment—though it can be used for menstrual and respiratory illnesses as well. But apart from that, ginger can help you feel self-confident, courageous, and self-assured.
When you’re recovering from substance use disorder, it can feel like there is a big hole in your life. You’ll start to develop new methods for coping, but the reality is that drugs or alcohol was your coping mechanism. When that coping mechanism is gone, what do you do? While you’re trying to navigate your sober life, aromatherapy can be very useful along the way—to helping you to feel grounded, calmed, and inspired.
