Aromatherapy for Depression

ylang ylang flower

Depression is a mental health disorder that is described as a "down" mood and loss in interest in activities, which can impair daily life. Depression sufferers usually experience prolonged feelings of sadness, as well as emotional and physical problems later on.

According to the American Psychiatric Association, symptoms of Depression includes:

* Feeling sad or having a depressed mood

* Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed

* Changes in appetite — weight loss or gain unrelated to dieting

* Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much

* Loss of energy or increased fatigue

* Increase in purposeless physical activity (e.g., hand-wringing or pacing) or slowed movements and speech (actions observable by others)

* Feeling worthless or guilty

* Difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions

* Thoughts of death or suicide

Symptoms must last at least two weeks for a diagnosis of depression.

Depression is treatable using medicine, talk therapy or both, as each is a case by case scenario.

Aromatherapy has been used in the recovery regime for Depression sufferers. This drug-free option which really is the application of essential oils is not a cure, it is mainly for providing relief from Depression symptoms and to manage the condition. Essential oils are free from side effects, but careful consideration and health history of the individual must be taken to avoid allergic reactions. As always, if you or anyone you know suffers from Depression, it it strongly advised that they should see their doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Let us all help to reduce the rate of suicide happening around the world!

Some essential oils that provide relief from Depression symptoms are:

* Lavender

* Ylang Ylang

* Sweet Orange

* Bergamot

* Rose

* Grapefruit

* Chamomile Roman

* Clary Sage

Effective ways of using essential oils to combat Depression symptoms are:

* Inhalation - applying the essential oil on a cotton ball and inhaling, or using a diffuser

* In a therapeutic bath

* Massage oil

An important rule of thumb is to always dilute your essential oil before use. Persons with respiratory problems, pregnant women, and children shouldn’t use essential oils unless under the supervision of a doctor or trained aromatherapist.

Helpful links: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3877597/, https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ptr.1950

Angela Ambrose-Radford, Certified Aromatherapist

https://www.lotusbloomaromas.com