June 19, 2026
August 5, 2025
High blood pressure (hypertension) affects nearly half of U.S. adults. It’s often linked to diet, stress, and genetics. While prescription medications and lifestyle changes are proven to control hypertension, many people explore essential oils for high blood pressure as a complementary approach. Our high-quality oils are used by aromatherapy enthusiasts and health-focused brands worldwide. In this guide, we’ll separate fact from hype, explaining which essential oils might help with blood pressure and which ones to avoid.
Many aromatic oils can induce relaxation or improve mood, which indirectly supports heart health. A balanced viewpoint is important: essential oils are not a cure for hypertension. They can only complement a healthy lifestyle. We’ll highlight scientific studies, safety considerations, and practical tips for using essential oils safely if you have high blood pressure.
High blood pressure usually develops over years. Key risk factors include:
Research on essential oils and blood pressure is limited but growing. Most studies focus on aromatherapy inhalation or mild topical use – not ingesting oils. Some oils have calming properties that may modestly lower blood pressure by reducing stress and relaxing blood vessels. Here are a few that have been studied:
Inhaling 100% pure bergamot oil has been shown to briefly lower systolic blood pressure and heart rate. In one clinical trial with spa workers, 45 minutes of bergamot aromatherapy led to an average drop of 2.10 mmHg in systolic pressure. (Note: exposure beyond 60 minutes caused an increase, so brief use is key.)
A well-known sedative and stress-reliever, lavender oil appears in studies of hypertension. Blends containing lavender (often with ylang-ylang and bergamot) helped patients with high blood pressure feel more relaxed. For example, a four-week study had participants inhale a lavender/ylang-ylang/bergamot blend daily. Those using the oils had significant reductions in stress markers and blood pressure compared to placebo.
This floral oil is often used for rapid heartbeat and stress. Inhaling ylang-ylang has been shown to significantly decrease both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in small trials. One 2013 study found ylang-ylang’s scent had a sedative effect that lowered BP.
Often combined with other oils, marjoram can enhance relaxation. A small 2017 study found inhaling sweet marjoram oil produced “remarkable” decreases in blood pressure and heart rate. Marjoram’s warm, herbal scent is popular for stress relief.
Neroli oil (from bitter orange blossoms) is noted for reducing stress hormones. Inhalation studies show that blends of neroli with lavender and ylang-ylang significantly lowered BP and anxiety in prehypertensive patients.
Though better known as an insect repellent, one small study found citronella aromatherapy significantly reduced blood pressure, heart and breathing rates.
A 2013 study (on women with urinary issues) suggests clary sage oil can reduce blood pressure and heart rate during stress. (Note: common sage oil contains thujone which can raise BP – clary sage is chemically different.)
Believed to have mild calming effects, frankincense oil is thought to lower stress and inflammation, which could indirectly help BP.
Known for sleep support, valerian oil might help some people relax enough to lower blood pressure. The European Medicines Agency notes valerian’s use for stress and sleep.
Topical rose oil has shown calming results: one small trial reported that applying rose oil to the skin reduced heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing rate.
If choosing to try aromatherapy for stress and relaxation, use oils safely:
Add a few drops of essential oil to a diffuser or personal inhaler. This allows you to breathe the aroma. Essential Oils fragranced diffusers and oils are designed for safe aromatherapy.
Mix 1–2 drops of oil per teaspoon of a carrier oil (e.g., jojoba or coconut oil) for gentle skin application (neck, shoulders, chest) during a massage. Do not apply undiluted essential oil directly on skin.
Add a few drops of oil to a warm bath with Epsom salts for a calming soak.
Carefully inhale the scent from the bottle, or place a drop on a tissue and breathe in deeply a few times.
Note: Do not ingest essential oils without professional guidance – many are toxic if swallowed.
Always dilute oils and perform a patch test on skin first. The Food and Drug Administration generally recognizes many essential oils as safe when used properly, but caution is needed.
For specific conditions, some oils are discouraged. As Medical News Today notes, hyssop oil should be avoided in high blood pressure because it contains isopinocamphone, which can raise blood pressure. Rosemary and citrus oils (lemon, grapefruit) are also stimulants that could be problematic for hypertension. Common sage (which has thujone) likewise should be avoided. In general, err on the side of gentler, sedating oils (lavender, bergamot, chamomile) rather than bright stimulants.
Important: If you have high blood pressure, consult a doctor before trying any new treatment. Essential oils are considered “complementary” – they do not replace medical care. Always follow dosage guidelines and stop use if adverse effects occur.
In summary, essential oils for high blood pressure can provide calming aromatic support, but they aren’t a cure. Studies suggest oils like bergamot, lavender, ylang-ylang, marjoram, and rose might help reduce stress-related BP spikes. However, evidence is limited and individual results vary. Some oils (e.g. bitter orange, hyssop, rosemary) should be avoided due to potential increase in blood pressure.
Q: What are the best essential oils for high blood pressure?
Oils known for promoting relaxation have the most evidence. Examples include lavender, bergamot, ylang-ylang, neroli, clary sage, and marjoram. These are thought to reduce stress and may slightly lower blood pressure. However, results are modest and individual.
Q: How do people use essential oils for hypertension?
Common methods include using a diffuser (aroma therapy), inhaling directly, or diluted topical massage. For example, putting a drop of lavender oil on a tissue and breathing it in, or adding bergamot to a diffuser for 30 minutes, can promote calm. Always dilute oils before skin application and consult a professional for personalized advice.
Q: Are there essential oils I should avoid with high blood pressure?
Yes. Oils that tend to stimulate the body should be avoided. Hyssop oil (contains isopinocamphene) is known to raise blood pressure. Citrus oils (like sweet orange, grapefruit) and strong oils like rosemary can also potentially increase BP. Common sage contains thujone, which can elevate blood pressure. When in doubt, choose milder, relaxing oils.
Q: Can I use essential oils for blood pressure during pregnancy?
Pregnancy and high blood pressure (preeclampsia) require caution. Some oils can cross the placenta or affect the fetus. Essential oils may be safe in small amounts, but always consult a doctor first. Generally, focus on medically approved interventions and use aromatherapy only under professional guidance.
Q: What did Dr. Axe say about essential oils for hypertension?
Some naturopaths like Dr. Axe suggest using blends (lavender, geranium, ylang-ylang, etc.) to promote calm. For example, a “blood pressure roll-on” recipe might include lavender and marjoram. However, these are based on anecdotal beliefs, and clinical support is limited. If you try such blends, do so safely (proper dilution) and treat them as complimentary to, not a replacement for, medical care.
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