Taking Control of Your Own Wellness
Depression is one of the biggest health concerns worldwide, and scientists believe that up to 350 million people worldwide currently suffer from this distressing and disabling condition.
Depression has often been described as a black hole that it feels like you can’t crawl out of. Although many people think of depression as constant sadness, for most sufferers it often looks like low energy, anxiety, apathy, or difficulty concentrating or sleeping.
The good news is that despite feeling overwhelming sometimes, depression is actually a physical condition, and one that you have the power to address!
Depression, in very simplified terms, comes from low production of serotonin or dopamine in the brain. Antidepressants work to boost production of these chemicals, but they are not the only way to help; essential oils can mimic some of the same effects.
Unfortunately, there’s no cure-all. To have the best chance of beating depression, it’s best to take a well-rounded approach to tackling it. Routine, supplements, aromatherapy, yoga, meditation, counseling, traditional medication, spirituality, and creative outlets can all be part of your personal arsenal you use to fight depression.
Essential Oils for Depression
Lavender Oil For Depression
Lavender has long been used to relieve depression, with its use dating back as far as ancient Rome. The soothing and relaxing effects of lavender. will be familiar to anyone who has enjoyed its complex floral aroma. Numerous studies have demonstrated its power of lavender to relieve anxiety, decrease stress, improve mood, and promote relaxation. Lavender oil can be applied topically directly to the skin, but works equally well when diffused or sprinkled on your pillow before bed.
Bergamot Oil For Depression
The sweet citrus scent of bergamot oil significantly reduces anxiety, a common symptom of depression. Citrus essential oils like bergamot and orange also work to brighten the mood and promote positive energy, helping to lift the depressive cloud and restore normal function. It’s important to take care with bergamot oil, which can cause photosensitivity when applied to the skin, so why not try bergamot as part of a diffuser blend to raise the energy of your space and brighten your mood?
Ylang Ylang Oil For Depression
The complex aroma of ylang ylang oil is known for its immediate calming and relaxing effects when inhaled. Ylang ylang can help to improve depression by reducing negative emotions, diminishing the stress response, and helping you relax.
Chamomile Oil For Depression
When taken as a tea, chamomile is one of the most popular home remedies to soothe the soul and unwind after a difficult day. However, you might not know that chamomile has been shown to have antidepressant qualities, helping to eliminate feelings of depression and sadness.
Essential Oils For Holistic Treatment of Depression
Essential oils probably won’t cure your depression, but they can be a great addition to a holistic approach to depression care. In particular, massage using essential oils mixed with a carrier, such as almond oil, has been shown to help even more when compared to inhalation.
However, you needn’t splash out for an expensive massage from an aromatherapist; even a self-massage using essential oils mixed with a carrier oil can be an effective strategy to help relieve your symptoms.