Aromatherapy for men’s mental health and wellbeing

We know that aromatherapy can be a useful tool to support mental health and wellbeing. However, there could be a perception that essential oils are used and enjoyed exclusively by women. Jo Kellett, our essential oil expert, believes there has been a shift in this attitude recently as men are seeking ways to support themselves and are becoming more vocal about their mental health and wellbeing. So lets explore aromatherapy for men's mental health and wellbeing.
“Again, while there may be a predisposed concept that certain essential oils are “not for men”, in my experience this attitude is changing. There are some oils which are thought to aid specific women’s health challenges, but aside from that, there is a more general consensus that there are aromas for men and aromas for women, but is this conditioning or nature, and can this perception be changed?
While there is research to show that women have a more heightened sense of smell and this is believed to be linked to biological factors like the maternal bonding process, I feel that it is mostly conditioning and that women are steered to choose more ‘feminine aromas’ like florals for example, whilst men are steered towards spicy or woody aromas. But as smell is so personal it means that all essential oils should and can be considered for everyone.

With that in mind, here are some suggestions to our male readers of some essential oils that may traditionally be considered feminine smells, others not, but all these oils are helpful in supporting emotional health.

Neroli – Citrus aurantium

Sweet, creamy and soothing this oil is helpful when feeling overwhelmed.

Sandalwood - Santalum album

Grounding and restorative, like a comforting hug, helpful when you can’t switch your mind off.

Frankincense - Boswellia carterii

Eases anxiety, slows the breath and brings a sense of calm to stressful situations.

Rose Absolute – Rosa damascena

One of the most useful essential oils for emotional upset, nurturing, soothing and extremely comforting

Grapefruit – Citrus paradisi

Refreshing, positive and energising, a sure way to lift your mood.

All of these essential oils can be used in an Aroma Spa Diffuser, at any time during the day; on your desk whilst working or around your home for a mood-enhancing effect. It’s great to experience different fragrances, especially ones that you may not have considered before.”

Ultimately, using essential oils can be beneficial for men’s mental health and in the process, you may find your new favourite aroma! 

Aroma Spa Diffuser Blend

Add the following to the water in your Aroma Spa Diffuser:
1 drop of Neroli
2 drops of Sandalwood
5 drops of Grapefruit
 

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About Jo Kellett
Our essential oil expert, Jo Kellett TIDHA MIFPA CIMI, graduated from the Tisserand Institute of Holistic Aromatherapy in 1996. She returned to the college in 1999 as Essential Oil Therapeutics Tutor, where she taught until the college closed. Jo runs a successful private Aromatherapy practice in Brighton, specialising in Women’s health. Jo is also an internationally published author and has lectured on the subject of Aromatherapy both in the UK and abroad.