Are you looking for natural ways to improve your mental health and well-being? Look no further than the vagus nerve, a key player in the mind-body connection. The vagus nerve is the longest nerve in the body and plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including stress response, heart rate, digestion, and inflammation. When toned and functioning optimally, the vagus nerve can positively impact your mental health. In this blog post, we'll explore how essential oils can help tone the vagus nerve and improve mental health.

Understanding the Vagus Nerve:

The vagus nerve acts as a communication highway between the brain and the body, sending signals in both directions. It is responsible for regulating the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions. When the vagus nerve is toned, it helps to balance the sympathetic (fight-or-flight) and parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) branches of the autonomic nervous system, promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and improving mental health.

Essential Oils for Toning the Vagus Nerve:

1. Rosemary (Note: Herbal, Scent Profile: Uplifting and Invigorating): Rosemary essential oil has been shown to stimulate the vagus nerve, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. Its herbal aroma is known to improve mental clarity and boost mood, making it an excellent option for toning the vagus nerve. Rosemary essential oil can be diffused or used in a massage oil or bath. You can find Rosemary in our Detox range. 
2. Peppermint (Note: Minty, Scent Profile: Refreshing and Energising): Peppermint essential oil has a refreshing and energising scent that can stimulate the vagus nerve, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. Its minty aroma is known to improve focus and boost mood, making it a great option for toning the vagus nerve. Peppermint essential oil can be diffused or used in a personal inhaler for on-the-go relaxation. You can find Peppermint in our Detox range. 
3. Neroli (Note: Floral, Scent Profile: Calming and Balancing): Neroli essential oil has a calming and balancing scent that can help tone the vagus nerve and promote relaxation. Its floral aroma is known to reduce anxiety and uplift mood, making it a valuable choice for improving mental health and soothing mental tension. Neroli essential oil can be diffused or used in a calming body oil or lotion for a luxurious and soothing experience. You can find Neroli in our Secret Garden range. 
4. Lavender (Note: Floral, Scent Profile: Calming and Soothing): Lavender essential oil is well-known for its calming and soothing properties, making it an excellent option for toning the vagus nerve. Its floral scent promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and aids in better sleep, which can positively impact mental health. Lavender essential oil can be diffused in the air, added to a warm bath, or applied topically using a carrier oil. You can find Lavender in our Soothe Range
5. Geranium (Note: Floral, Scent Profile: Balancing and Harmonising): Geranium essential oil has a balancing and harmonising scent that can help tone the vagus nerve and promote emotional well-being. Its floral aroma is known to reduce anxiety, uplift mood, and promote a sense of balance, making it a great option for mental health improvement. Geranium essential oil can be diffused or used in a massage oil or body lotion. You can find Geranium in our Soothe and New Romantic range. 
6. Bergamot (Note: Citrus, Scent Profile: Uplifting and Fresh): Bergamot essential oil has a refreshing and uplifting scent that can stimulate the vagus nerve, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. Its citrusy aroma is known to relieve anxiety, improve mood, and boost mental function. Bergamot can be found in our Happy Range.