Aromatherapy for Depression and Anxiety

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What is Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of essential oils extracted from plants and mixed with another substance (usually oil or alcohol). The oils are then applied to the skin, inhaled, or poured into bath water depending on the oil and the desired effect. Many people find relief from the symptoms of anxiety and depression when using aromatherapy.

Specific plant oils produce fragrances that either stimulate or relax the body. There are several theories on how this occurs. Some practitioners believe that the fragrances in the oils stimulate odor-sensing nerves in the nose. Impulses are then sent to the part of the brain that controls memory and emotion. Depending on the type of oil, the result on the body may be calming or stimulating. The oils are thought to interact with the body's hormones and enzymes to cause changes in blood pressure, pulse, and other body functions. The fragrance of the oil plays a role in the specific treatment. Another theory suggests that the odors of certain oils may stimulate the body's glands to produce pain-fighting substances. Some people also believe that certain fragrances unlock specific memories and the emotions tied to those memories.

Articles on Aromatherapy for Depression and Anxiety:

Holistic Online: Aromatherapy and Depression

Aromatherapy can help in mild forms of depression. It may ease mental fatigue and help with sleep. However, if you, or someone you know, are severely depressed, additional support and therapy are necessary. Aromatherapy is more effective when used as a Complementary therapy, assisting other therapies...

Revolution Health: Aromatherapy for Anxiety

User reviews of various essential oils and aromatherapy fragrances for anxiety relief and generalized anxiety disorder. This page can help you select an aromatherapy oil to treat your anxiety disorder.

Is Aromatherapy Safe?

Practitioners of aromatherapy are not licensed in the United States, though some may have received training. Many essential oils can cause damage to the skin if not properly diluted, and essential oils are NOT meant to be swallowed. Essential oils can be dangerous, or even deadly, if taken internally. Oils should not be used near the face, eyes, or mouth, since irritation of the skin and membranes may occur.

People with certain chronic illnesses or conditions should not use aromatherapy without first consulting a health professional. These illnesses and conditions include:

Asthma, respiratory allergies, or chronic lung disease.

Skin allergies.

Pregnant women. Certain oils may trigger uterine contractions.

Children under the age of 5.

Things to Remember:

When using essential oils, use the smallest amount of essential oil that will produce the desired results. Less is always more in this case.

Essential oils are flammable. Do not use near fire or while smoking.

Always do a skin patch test when using an oil for the first time. Place a small amount of the diluted essential oil on the inside of your elbow and apply a bandage. Wait 24 hours to see if there is any form of reaction. If swelling, irritation, or a rash appears, avoid using the oil again.

 

For a great source of information on aromatherapy and essential oils, please visit AromaWeb.

 

Encyclopedia of Essential Oils: The Complete Guide to the Use of Aromatic Oils in Aromatherapy, Herbalism, Health & Well-Being

Gattefosse's Aromatherapy the First Book on Aromatherapy

The Art of Aromatherapy: The Healing and Beautifying Properties of the Essential Oils of Flowers and Herbs

Medical Aromatherapy: Healing with Essential Oils