7 Powerful Essential Oils For Opening Your Heart

The heart is the most important human organ. Without it pumping, we couldn't sustain life. Many are mindful of how diet and exercise affect heart health, but aromatherapy offers complementary support with essential oils. Throughout history, aromas have been used to emotionally and physically care for our hearts.

Recent research confirms what many have intuitively known about aromas and essential oils. Essential oils may prevent heart disease, and exposure to aromatherapy has demonstrated a beneficial effect on heart rate and blood pressure. One study in young women showed an association between essential oil inhalation and lower blood pressure, pulse rate, and stress level.

Historically, juniper was used in Europe as a restorative tonic. The essential oil is extracted from berries producing a piney, fruity aroma. It is a powerful detoxifier that aids in improving circulation—making it suitable for those with hardened arteries or heart problems. Juniper acts on the body's warm yang energy, helping to overcome physical heart problems and break through psychological stagnation.

The rose has been given the power of healing and soothing the heart. In fact, the word rose comes from the Greek word rodon, meaning red. Its floral, feminine scent is heart centering, making it the queen oil for grief and bereavement. Rose comforts in dark times of emotional pain and shock.

Want to enhance your sensuality? Reach for sandalwood. For years, its woodsy, balsamic aroma has lured men and women alike. It's a potent aphrodisiac1 that cultivates a spiritual inner awareness, which makes it perfect for intimately connecting with a partner.

Native to the Philippines, elemi essential oil is distilled from a tree's resin. Its fresh, slightly spicy aroma supports and uplifts. Morphologically, tree resin acts as a Band-Aid. Similarly, elemi is a wound healer that supports the cardiovascular system by neutralizing stress. Just smelling it repairs your spirit, which allows you to find compassion in your heart.

Also known as immortelle, helichrysum can mend your broken heart. One of the most powerful all-around healers, it inspires forgiveness. The herbaceous aroma balances the psyche making it the best oil for mental unrest and old emotional scars. Helichrysum has the power to break through the deepest, most "stuck" negative emotions and can restore compassion for oneself.

Long worshipped by indigenous cultures for its purifying powers, palo santo is sacred. Palo santo oil is said to align with organic life force that banishes negative energy and sparks a reconnection with the heart. It is ideal for those who feel disconnected from their emotions and are longing to reconnect with loved ones and themselves.

After trauma, cape chamomile can foster feelings of acceptance. Its apple-like scent inspires moving on with life. A spiritual oil known for healing the heart, cape chamomile pacifies anger and aggression.