Treat Depression With Aromatherapy

Are you feeling depressed and full of grief? You may be able to find some relief through aromatherapy. there are many essential oils that would help remove and prevent these feelings. Below, a few of these are described.

Bergamot, or citrus bergamia, as it is known in the more botanical and scientific circles is a wonderful essential oil that can be helpful in many areas. Because of its invigorating citrus scent, it can be very useful if you are feeling down and depressed. The aroma of bergamot is medium strength; it invigorates without overpowering. The best bergamot oil is cold-pressed, but it can also be steam distilled. Even the color of this oil is very beautiful, a lovely, rich, green-tinged golden hue. However, it is important to note that Bergamot is phototoxic, which means that it becomes toxic if exposed to light for too long. Because of this, you should not apply bergamot oil to any area that will be exposed to a large amount of sunlight within twenty four hours of application.

Another oil that is very effective for combating depression comes from the ylang-ylang, or cananga odorata. The name is derived from the Philippine word "ilang-ilang", or flower of flowers, due to the plant's pleasing smell. A clear oil with just a hint of yellow, ylang-ylang has a fresh, fragrant floral smell. This oil is generally produced by steam distillation; it is then separated into different grades according to where it comes from. As with most essential oils, however, one must exercise caution while using ylang-ylang; it is known for causing headaches and nausea when used in excess. There can be too much of a good thing!

Clary sage is another well-known aromatherapeutic weapon against depression. This plant, also known as salvia sclarea is native to Europe and Asia, and should be steam distilled to produce the finest oil. The golden-yellow liquid then emits a spicy, earthy aroma with just a hint of fruitiness to mellow it out. The initial strength of the scent is medium to strong; you can definitely smell it, but it won't knock you out. Be very careful, though, you definitely want to avoid using this oil if you've been drinking alcohol recently or intend to be driving soon, as it can produce a narcotic effect.

So if you've been feeling down lately, aromatherapy does offer several things. So if you try them, maybe you will find the solution to your problem!