There are many vital components to regaining and maintaining health. Aromatherapy for depression can be a crucial part of a healing journey, and you can learn how to help yourself and others achieve whole-body wellness through holistic healing. Aromatherapy, sometimes also referred to as aromatic or scent medicine, is the art of healing the body using naturally distilled essences from different parts of plants to improve and enhance your everyday emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. These essences are known as essential oils. Aromatherapy can Lift Depression, Soothe Stress, Heal Headaches, and More. Depression (depressive disorder) is a mood disorder that can be potentially life-threatening. It was found to be 27% among cancer patients. Depression has an impact on physical health, particularly among individuals with chronic conditions, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory disorders. If left untreated, depression can lead to symptoms such as sleep disorders, changes in appetite and weight, fatigue, lack of energy, feelings of hopelessness about the future, excessive guilt, and low self-esteem. When used in the correct manner, aromatherapy can be a convenient and safe practice, with no significant side effects. Recent studies have reported the use of aromatherapy as a strategy to reduce depression in patients with conditions such as cancer, chronic diseases, and cardiovascular disorders. Aromatherapy is believed to exert its effects through the physiological and pharmacological actions of the chemical constituents present in essential oils. These constituents can enter the bloodstream through inhalation, ingestion, or absorption through the skin. Reliable evidence is present for the application of aromatherapy to reduce depressive symptoms, and it can be utilized effectively to decrease depressive symptoms.
Aromatherapy For Depression
Among these non-pharmacological approaches, aromatherapy is a popular complementary alternative medicine chosen by individuals with depression. It involves the use of essential oils derived from various plants to harness therapeutic benefits
Top 10 Essential Oils for Depression
Also, these essential oils are used for depression: Rose, Rosewood, Sandalwood, Violet, and Ylang-Ylang
Rose OIL: “Therapeutically, this scent does have a potent Antidepressant effect and may be used, via face and body massage, Skin Care, baths, or vaporisers to treat nervousness, sadness, or long-term Stress.”
LAVENDER: “The balancing properties of Lavender can correct emotional problems and feelings of instability. Its calming effect will induce a restful sleep. Try a drop of Lavender oil on your Pillow or into an evening bath.”
Neroli (oil of the Orange blossom): “Neroli … is one of the most suitable Essential Oils to use for Nervous Tension, Insomnia, and Stress-related illnesses as it has a very positive calming influence on mind and body.”
Caution when using the oils as they are very potent and may therefore cause a skin Rash (it does say, however, that Lavender is “the only oil that can be safely applied undiluted to the skin”). It is suggested to put a drop or two into 3 tablespoons of Carrier Oil (such as a neutral odor light vegetable or nut oil) for a massage, or else 2 to 4 drops of oil(s) to a warm bath and soaking for 10 minutes.
Another suggested use is as a room freshener – use a clay or ceramic vaporiser to heat water with, or near, the oil. An easy way to make a room freshener with Essential Oils is to wet a cotton ball with the Essential Oil and place it in a room or cupboard to scent the area. (For maximum effect, place somewhere warm such as behind a heater or fireplace.)
An Oil to Lift Depression, Soothe Stress, Heal Headaches, and More
Even though the sun is shining brightly, we can still suffer occasional bouts of depression. But this essential oil, derived from a well-known cooking herb, will really help! Not only can it lift our mood, but it also relieves stress and headaches, and is reputed to improve concentration. In fact, its powers are so great, the Hindus believed it was a passport to heaven, and its very name means “king.”BASIL is the essential oil to use.
For relief of depression, anxiety, and stress, use 2 or 3 drops in a diffuser. You could also add 2 or 3 drops to one ounce of carrier oil and use it as a body massage oil.
To improve concentration, put 2 or 3 drops in a diffuser.
For headaches, put 2 or 3 drops on a hot or cold compress (depending on your preference).
Aromatherapy can help in mild forms of depression. It may ease mental fatigue and help with sleep.
Inhalation blend for mild depression
* 4 parts Clary sage oil
* 4 parts Ylang ylang oil
* 3parts Geranium oil
* 2 parts Basil oil
* 1 part Sandalwood oil
Mix the above oils in an amber glass bottle. Label. Use three to four times daily.
Oil Blends to Help with Depression
The blends below can help during times of anxiety. When selecting and using oils, be sure to follow all safety precautions and remember that aromatherapy should not be used as a substitute for proper medical treatment.
Blend #1
* 1 drop Rose
* 3 drops Sandalwood
* 1 drop Orange
Blend #2
* 3 drops Bergamot
* 2 drops Clary Sage
Blend #3
* 1 drop Lavender
* 1 drop Ylang Ylang
* 3 drops Grapefruit
Blend #4
* 2 drops Frankincense
* 1 drop Lemon
* drops Jasmine or Neroli
Directions:
Select one of the blends shown above. Then, choose which method you’d like to use: the blend–diffuser, bath oil, massage oil, or air freshener
Help Anxiety and Depression Naturally!
Helpful Hints:
Please be sure to use pure essential oil. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have a serious medical condition, consult a medical professional before using essential oil.
