While essential oils are an effective home remedy for influencing emotional states, they should not be used instead as medical treatments for anxiety and Depression. WHO revealed a 25% increase in Depression and anxiety worldwide during the COVID-19 crisis, so it's no surprise that individuals are searching for alternate treatment options.Aromatherapy uses essential oils filtered from plants, including leaves, flowers, fruits, seeds, and roots, to treat Depression. When essential oils are inhaled and absorbed by the skin, they can help alleviate depression symptoms. Precautions must be taken because essential oils can cause skin allergies and may not be the best choice for individuals with respiratory issues or pregnant women. In this article, you can learn about the best essential oils for depression.
What is an essential oil?
Essential oils are natural, scented liquids deduced from the leaves, blossoms, seeds, bark, and stems of plants and roots. They have been used for spiritual and therapeutic purposes since ancient times. Active ingredients have been extracted from plants by pressing or steaming them to create fragrant oils. Several pounds of plants are frequently needed to make a small bottle of essential oil. Some oils treat skin rashes, inflammation, or infections, while others are used to calm and relax.Essential oils can be used in a variety of ways. Inhalation is the quickest way for the aroma to reach the brain. This can be accomplished using a room humidifier or a portable inhaler such as a Vicks inhaler.Essential oils in diluted form may also be absorbed by the skin and directly applied with a roll-on spreader or lotion. Massage therapy is another application for essential oils.Also Read: Skin Care: Do's & Don'tsAre Essential oils effective in treating Depression?
Extensive research on essential oils has been conducted in recent years, and many studies have found that some essential oils are very beneficial in treating depressive conditions. Though essential oils are not regarded as a comprehensive cure for Depression, they can effectively relieve and handle some symptoms of Depression.List of 10 essential oils for Depression -
Here are 10 essential oils for Depression that may help improve mood and promote relaxation:1. Bergamot -
Bergamot oil has a citrus scent and is known to be calming and uplifting. One study found that patients who used bergamot oil aromatherapy while waiting for surgery felt less anxious. Because anxiety is a potential complication of Depression, bergamot oil may be beneficial. Although it is unclear how bergamot relieves anxiousness, it has been shown to reduce the production of stress hormones if you are in a stressful situation.Also Read: Treating Anxiety, Depression & Insomnia2. Wild Ginger -
Wild ginger may contain antidepressant properties. An animal study found that inhaling wild ginger oil reduced depression-like behaviors in stressed-out mice. The oil, according to researchers, may activate a group of transmissions in the brain linked to Depression known as the serotonergic system. The activation of this system may slow the stress hormones.3. Lavender -
A comforting oil for Depression is lavender oil, a floral and earthy scent. According to some studies, adding lavender oil can help Depression, relieve stress, relax the muscles, and alleviate anxiety.According to one 2003 study, a lavender concoction that is similar to essential oil but managed to be made with grain alcohol and fresh herbs might assist with moderate to mild Depression. It had a similar effect in the study to imipramine, an antidepressant.4. Vetiver -
Vetiver essential oil has long been used to treat skin conditions and imperfections. It is also widely used in perfumes due to its distinct aroma. However, extracts and essential oil are believed to comprise approximately 50% sesquiterpenes and approximately 20% sesquiterpenoids. Because of these properties, this essential oil is extremely relaxing and effective in treating mood reactions such as anxiety and Depression.Also Read: Why Don't We Take Depression Seriously?5. Jasmine oil -
Jasmine essential oil has a sweet aroma from the jasmine plant's flowers (Jasminum officinale).It is frequently used in aromatherapy as it is thought to have a variety of qualities that may aid in the treatment of skin imperfections as well as stress reduction.A study of twenty healthy volunteers found that inhaling jasmine essential oil has an arousing effect on the brain. Finally, the study's authors suggest that the effect of aromatic oils on mood may aid in the advancement of medications with fewer side effects.6. Ylang Ylang oil -
Ylang Ylang essential oil is extracted from the blossoms of the Ylang Ylang tree and therefore is widely used in producing perfumes and aromatherapy.Ylang Ylang Essential Oil is used in aromatherapy treatments to relieve stress, tension, sadness, anxiety, and sleeplessness.A study includes extensive research on Cananga odorata's traditional uses, phytochemistry, and bioactivities (Ylang-Ylang). Ylang Ylang is believed to be useful in high blood pressure and treating Depression, anxiety, and other things.7. Carry sage -
Clary sage is a well-known oil extensively used due to its medicinal properties. It can give you various benefits related to your physical and mental health. It is an excellent natural remedy for Depression, stress, and insomnia, making you feel calm and joyful.8. Lemon oil -
Lemon oil is made from the lemon's skin which is considered one of the best Essential oils for Depression. The essential oil could be applied to the skin undiluted or dissolved into the air and inhaled. It is widely used in skincare and aromatherapy products.Lemon oil can improve your mood by calming anxiety and lifting your spirits. Inhaling lemon oil vapor reduces stress symptoms.9. Frankincense -
Frankincense is said to improve mood and regulate hormones, particularly in women. One study found that combining frankincense with other oils known to induce relaxation was beneficial in relieving Depression in terminally ill people and may have also helped with pain management. Frankincense stimulates the part of the brain which regulates emotions and activates a protein involved in the perception of warmth. These effects, when combined, can provide a feeling of comfort and calm.Also Read: Treating Anxiety, Depression & Insomnia10. Chamomile -
Chamomile is frequently used to treat various physical symptoms associated with inflammation. Chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties and can help to restore balance to agitated bodily systems. Chamomile has also been shown to alleviate depression symptoms and boost motivation. Chamomile is especially beneficial when Depression and anxiety are causing digestive problems, as it may help relax and alleviate gut inflammation.Conclusion -
Essential oils seem to be very efficient as supplement therapeutic agents for the treatment and preventative measures of depressive disorders. These Essential oils for Depression are valued not only in alternative medicine but also in conventional medicine. A great way to harness the botanical benefits of these oils without creating a hole in your pocket is by investing in wholesale essential oils. You don't have to be depressed to use essential oils; you can use them to increase your overall relaxation and level of confidence.Also Read: Postpartum Depression Treatment: 7 Steps To RecoveryReviewed by