It’s not a secret that in West Coast one out of five citizens has a serious issue with addictions.

Recovering from an addiction to alcohol or drugs can be a challenge, but there are many great resources available that can make the process easier. One way of doing this is to make use of alternative therapies such as aromatherapy. According to studies carried out by R J Buckle Associates (RJBA) students in the USA, aromatherapy appears to reduce cravings, alleviates the withdrawal process and improves wellbeing.

On September 10, 2022 BC Association of practicing Aromatherapists along with RN,RA Pat Antoniak held one day seminar that was focused solely on a use of essential oils in overcoming addictions.


According to Pat Antoniak ,essential oils can be used to help reprograming the body’s cravings for substances and strengthen the resolution to abstain. Essential oils are also able to support and strengthen the emotional areas of pain that caused the person to begin the addictive behaviour.

Let me name a few. Basil and Grapefruit are both excellent essential oils for general application in addiction recovery. Basil calms and uplifts, as well as offering mental and emotional clarity; it’s also known to aid sleep, which often eludes those in early recovery. This essential oil is also helpful in spiritual cleansing.

Grapefruit, like all citrus oils, brightens the outlook. It’s energizing! This essential oil may also boost self-esteem, extroversion, and optimism. Grapefruit can ease cravings for sweets, as well as for alcohol.

Following are some essential oils that may boost efforts in particular areas of recovery.

Cravings reduction

Cravings in general can be relieved with the use of Grapefruit, Clove, Cilantro (Coriander), Cinnamon, and Peppermint essential oils.

Bergamot, Grapefruit, Sweet or Bitter orange, Petigraine, Lavander, Roman Chamomile, Vetiver, Frankincense, Patchouli, Benzoin, Neroli, Roso Otto, Myrtle ,Black Spruce.

Kidney tonics

Lemon, Grepfruit, Lavander, Sandalwood, Benzoin, Patchouli, Geranium, Pine, Cypress, Black Spruce.

Liver Tonics

Lemon, Mandarin, Grapefruit, Chamomile, Lavande, Pine, Rose, Benzoin, Frankincense , Patchouli, Helichrysum, Vetiver.

Nervous system tonics

Bergamot, grapefruit, Orange, Mandarin, Petigraine, Lavander, Geranium, Chamomile, Cardamon, Melissa, Vetiver, Patchouli, Ravansara, Rose, Neroli, Frankincense, Sandalwood, Benzoin.

Aromatherapy will not itself “cure” addiction—but it can offer a powerful boost for recovery, a boost that just might make the difference between relapse and long-term wellness.

The conclusion of the seminar was that addiction recovery is possible, especially with the help of essential oils and a good support system.

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