If you or someone you know suffers from depression, chances are you’re looking for a way to overcome depression. Aromatherapy using the power of essential oils might be the key for you as it is for millions. To start, let’s take a look at depression and how it affects our lives. Then, we follow that with learning about the power of crystals in reducing depression.
The Devastation of Depression
Depression is not unusual today and estimates show that it affects over 350 million people around the world. On a personal level, this condition affects every part of our lives because it throws a shadow on everything. That includes families, work, and school but that’s not all. It also robs us of our sleep, encourages poor eating habits, negatively affects our personal hygiene along with our overall wellbeing.
There are common symptoms that characterize depression. Some of those symptoms include low energy, bad moods, low self-esteem, and lack of interest in activities that bring you joy. As a result, depression causes us to withdraw inside of ourselves and attempt to close out the rest of the world. Other characteristics are chronic pain and continual guilt and sadness. So, no matter how you measure depression, it persistently debilitates us in every area of our lives.
14 Essential Oils to Help You Overcome Depression
Depression and anxiety become vicious cycles that cause painful emotions bringing on more depression. But before you fall into despair, please know that with the use of essential oils, there is help for you. With a little research, you will can select the right essential oils that positively affect your overall wellbeing.
Essential oils work on a basic human level to assist us with our depression. To introduce you to essential oils for healing, here are some facts about 14 essential oils that help you overcome depression.
1. Aniseed
Aniseed’s use as an ancient spice and flavoring among Romans, Greeks, and Egyptians is still popular today. The anise essential oil, due to its sedative effects, is both a natural anti-depressant and a relaxant which makes this a favorite of many who seek relief.
This 2017 clinical trial used anise oil for treating depression in IBS patients. 120 patients were given capsules containing anise oil or peppermint oil or a placebo. After a 4-week trial, the anise group were far less depressed than the other groups. And in a follow-up, two weeks after the trial, the anise group still had lower levels of depression. So, naturally it follows that is a way to explore how to overcome depression.
If you need a muscle relaxer or need to clear your airways to improve your breathing, this is the oil for you. Other benefits include the ability to reduce inflammation, reduce tinnitus, and neutralize free radicals. It also helps eliminate bacteria and fungi.
Aniseed is a powerful essential oil, so only use light dosages because it slows down both your breathing and circulation. Importantly, it is also poisonous for small animals and birds. As always, test it on your skin before you use it topically as it might cause irritation for some skin types. Also avoid during pregnancy or if you have certain types of cancer due to the effect of the estrogen hormone.
2. Basil
Basil is an ancient herb known for its use in Ayurvedic medicine as well as it’s more common use in cooking. The leaves and seeds of this herb are where the medicinal qualities of this plant are derived. Its modern uses include relief of headaches and menstrual discomfort.
Additionally, basil is naturally high in a lot of antioxidants and Vitamin C. But it also stimulates the adrenal glands which bring up energy levels and reduces fatigue which helps overcome depression.
Other uses include treating nervous tension, mental or emotional fatigue, and migraines. Because of its energetic boost, use of this medicinal herb also helps bring about the clarity of thoughts and feelings.
Use Basil oil topically by massaging it into the skin or you may ingest it orally as a digestive tonic. Caution: If you are pregnant, do not use basil essential oil.
3. Bergamot
Many consider this to be one of the best oils to overcome depression. One thing to note about Bergamot is that it makes some people photosensitive which means you have to stay out of the sun for a while.
The refreshing citrus aroma of bergamot is what wakes up your senses and is the direct result of the better circulation of blood flow. Additionally, studies show that bergamot is an effective natural remedy to overcome depression and anxieties.
A good way to use bergamot is to rub 2 or 3 drops in your hands which you then inhale from hands cupped in front of your face. Also, remember the photosensitivity quality of bergamot and stay out of the sun for a bit after use.
4. Chamomile
For most of us, when we think of chamomile, an image of a warm cup of relaxing tea comes to mind. Do you know that the active component in chamomile is ‘Apigenin’ which is what helps overcome depression? Interestingly, the word chamomile is from the Greek Chamomaela and translates to “ground apple” which describes the scent of the flowering bush.
The ancient Egyptians were the first to record the uses of chamomile to cure ‘Ague’ which is a bad fever. However, you’ll find this herb helps with a variety of illnesses among many other uses.
According to a study done by researchers from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, long-term chamomile use is effective for generalized anxiety disorder.
As I said, the most popular way to consume chamomile is through a nice cup of tea. However, it’s good to know that the essential oil is found by many to be more effective than tea. You may get benefits with a diffuser or apply it topically to your skin.
Smelling this essential oil can do a lot to overcome depression as it eases sadness and lifts your spirits. You will enjoy a peaceful mind, relieve stomach problems, and improve your skin, while you reduce inflammation. Now, that’s a lot of stress-reducing benefits!
5. Frankincense
The woody, natural scent of frankincense lifts your mood by bringing more oxygen to the brain. More specifically, it enhances the pineal and pituitary glands in the brain with its scent that balances hormones.
Frankincense is known by many essential oil lovers as the king of oils. Not only does it support healthy cellular function, it also produces feelings of peace when you inhale it or add it to a diffuser. It also reduces redness of the skin when you use it topically. Moreover, it increases healthy cell function which helps overcome depression and anxieties.
This wonderful essential oil comes from the gummy sap that oozes out of the Boswellia and Commiphora trees when their bark is cut. You may use it either in its dry form as incense or add it to a diffuser. You may also inhale the essential oils from the palm of your hand. Additionally, it works topically when you add a few drops to a carrier oil such as almond or jojoba.
6. Geranium
It is the relaxing and soothing qualities of geranium essential oil that makes it a good choice to help overcome depression.
Studies show that the rose-scented geranium is effective in lowering blood pressure during childbirth. Additionally, it is more effective than acetaminophen in the reduction of menstrual pain when used in combination with other essential oils.
Geranium oil is safe for topical and aromatherapy use. Do not ingest internally without first consulting with a doctor. Children or pregnant or lactating women should also consult with a medical professional before any use.
7. Jasmine
This small, flowering bush was introduced to Europe from Persia in the 16th century but is now grown in temperate climates throughout the world. Jasmine essential oil is a mood enhancer to help you overcome depression and anxieties.
The jasmine flower is best known for its delicate white flowers which give off a sweet floral bouquet that absolutely delights the senses.
Jasmine’s warm and relaxing qualities are enjoyed through inhalation, adding a few drops to a warm bath, in massage therapy, or in a diffuser to brighten your entire room.
8. Myrrh
Myrrh is famous for its inclusion in the biblical story about the three wise men who brought the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the baby Jesus. However, this ancient medicinal commodity is known throughout the ages from ancient civilizations to its popular use today as an essential oil. Myrrh essential oil also helps overcome depression because of its calming properties.
The myrrh essential oil is derived from resin and has a rare scent. Some say it smells like black licorice, but its pine, lemon, and sweet wood aroma is unmistakably unique and is soothing yet invigorating.
Diffuse or inhale myrrh to get the effects or for greater benefits, mix it with other essential oils. It is best to blend it with a carrier oil before applying myrrh essential oil to your skin. Myrrh is good as a food additive or flavor, however, before ingesting, consult with a medical professional.
9. Neroli
Neroli comes from the bitter orange tree’s blossom and its sweet and flowery scent is absolutely wonderful. Because neroli oil is derived from citrus fruit, it closely aligns with most other citrus essential oils. This essential oil helps bring joy back into your life and therefore helps overcome depression.
It works topically to reduce scars and spots and it also helps guard against skin infections. It is a natural anti-bacterial so it great to use for infections of the colon, prostate, kidneys, and urinary tracts. Because of its inherent anti-bacterial qualities, use it to remove odor from your home while it disinfects against germs and toxins.
However, it has a strong sedative nature, so don’t use it if you want to sleep. Like all citrus oils, neroli can irritate your skin so be sure to blend it with a carrier oil before application. Also like other citrus oils, it is photosensitizing, take precautions before going out in the sun.
10. Patchouli
Patchouli is an herb plant that also comes from the mint family. It is most known for its earthy aroma and its amazing mood-lifting capabilities.
When you inhale this essential oil, it stimulates the serotonin and dopamine production in your body which helps alleviate depression. So naturally, when this takes place, it calms our senses and helps us overcome depression and anxieties.
You may use this essential oil topically and with or without a carrier oil. You may also inhale it or use a few drops in a diffuser to help relieve feelings of sadness.
11. Peppermint
The great about Peppermint essential oil is how it refreshes and leaves you with a joyous feeling. With its inherent invigorating yet calming effect, it naturally helps reduce mental stress. It is also a fantastic source of many other health benefits and is full of vitamins. For instance, if you get tension headaches, this is the essential oil for you. According to the NCBI, topical treatment with peppermint oil is more effective than placebos in controlled studies.
Because your body spontaneously regenerates when you relax, it is then naturally able to overcome depression. A cross between water mint and spearmint and native to Europe, the peppermint plant now grows all over the world.
Smoothies or drinks come alive with this special flavoring. Or, bring out the diffuser and smell the aroma of peppermint throughout your home. It also works great as a foot scrub or in massage oil.
Peppermint oil is safe for both internal and external use. However, for topical use, test it on your skin before you put it all over and apply it sparingly. You may also dilute it with a carrier oil.
12. Perilla Herbilla
This essential oil comes from the leaves of the perilla plant and is native to Asia. Perilla essential oil is a natural relief to stress, anxiety, and depression. Moreover, it has a memorable fragrance that is something like a combination of pepper, mint, and fragrant wood.
Perilla seed oil has qualities that when inhaled, produce an elevation of spirits. As a result, symptoms of depression seem to dissipate. Additionally, it is said to have a “neuroprotective effect”, the benefits of which are to calm the nervous system. The best part is that you get all this without the negative side effects of prescription medications.
Use the perilla oil in moderate amounts and test for allergies before use. Do not use internally without first consulting with an expert.
Tip o’ the Hat to Health Benefits Times
13. Sweet Marjoram
Marjoram is an herb that we all recognize as a commonly used spice for our food. Do you know that in early Greek mythology, the goddess Aphrodite grew marjoram which now makes it a favorite of those who infuse love potions? If your issues stem from lack of sleep, this essential oil might help overcome depression.
Sweet marjoram lessens stressful anxiety because it both induces sleep and improves blood circulation. In addition to the singular use of sweet marjoram, you may also add other essential oils like lavender or bergamot for a more effective result.
You may use it topically by rubbing it on your feet or neck. It works great if you want to inhale it with cupped hands or you can use it in a diffuser.
14. Turmeric
Turmeric is a very popular oil for many reasons. Certainly, one of the top reasons is because it helps us with tolerance and balance. This, in turn, improves our entire outlook on ourselves and those around us. Many happy people claim that turmeric very effective in helping overcome depression and anxieties.
This ancient plant with all its wonderful qualities dates back over 4,000 years to the Vedic culture in India. However, it made its way around the world and it’s now a common cooking spice.
One Drop = Small Quantity.
Use turmeric essential oil both topically and internally. However, ensure that the oil is of top-quality and use in small quantities.
➳ Useful Precautions Before Using Essential Oils
• How to Use Essential Oils Safely
Essential oils are highly concentrated and should be used with caution. Here are some tips for using essential oils safely:
- Always dilute essential oils before using them on the skin
- Do a patch test before using a new essential oil to check for any allergic reactions
- Do not ingest essential oils unless under the guidance of a healthcare professional
- Keep essential oils out of the reach of children and pets
- Store essential oils in a cool, dry place away from sunlight
• How to perform a patch test on your skin.
Please remember to test essential oils on a small portion of your skin before overall use. You may dilute most essential oils with a carrier such as organic coconut oil or jojoba oil. Plus, most essential oils work well in diffusers which are found in almost any home store. Please note that some essential oils are not ingestible so always do a little research before use.
• How to apply essentials oils topically.
• Do not replace medications with essential oils without first consulting with your medical professional
It’s important to note, before you replace any prescribed medication with essential oil, I must caution you to talk to your medical professional first. More and more doctors understand and accept alternative treatments in today’s modern medical world, so don’t be afraid to bring up essential oils on your next visit. You might be pleasantly surprised!
➳ Countertop Diffusers for Essential Oils
➳ Jewelry Diffusers for Essential Oils
Bonus: Essential Oil Blend Recipes to Help Ease Depression
➳ Essential Oils Blend for Depression, Anxiety, and Stress
- 4 parts ylang-ylang essential oil
- 4 parts clary sage essential oil
- 2 parts basil essential oil
- 3 parts geranium essential oil
- 1 part sandalwood essential oil
Combine these essential oils into a small glass bottle. Remember to use dark glass to avoid oxidation. Next, when you’re ready to use it, open the bottle and gently sniff. Or, shake a few drops in the palm of your hands. Then, rub your hands together and cup them in front of your face to inhale the vapors. You may also use this blend in your massage oils or add them to your bathtub.
➳ Neroli, Lavender, and Chamomile Essential Oils Blend
A blend of Neroli and Lavender or Chamomile can help a depressed or anxious person fall asleep.
- Place 10-15 drops of essential oils for depression in a small crock pot filled with water. Start it 30 minutes before going to bed.
- Be sure to close your door to help keep the aroma concentrated in the room.
This will fill your room with an aroma that puts you to sleep quickly and deeply.
VIA Natural Depression Solution
Conclusion
It is my wish that you find this post enlightening and helpful. If you have any questions or suggestions, we love to hear from you in the comments below. Also, kindly accept our invitation to join our group on Facebook to surround yourself with kindred souls and share your encouraging messages.
