Essential oils

Which essential oils help with depression?

eterichni masla pri depresiya 1

A variety of essential oils affect your mood. Fragrance molecules can cross the blood-brain barrier and thus accomplish the task of arousing a person’s emotions. This direct route to memory and emotions proves that certain oils have the power to relieve feelings of depression and anxiety.

Depression is increasingly common in modern society – it is usually triggered by too much stress and mental overload. It often begins with symptoms such as fatigue, sadness, low mood, low levels of desire for intimacy, low self-esteem, lack of appetite, avoidance of social interactions, and over time feelings of hopelessness and loss of confidence increase.

Fortunately, there are many natural remedies for depression and one of them is essential oils. They can greatly help these mental conditions. In clinical studies it has been shown to boost mood. As already mentioned, smells are transported directly to the brain where they serve as emotional triggers. The limbic system then evaluates sensory stimuli and provides an emotional response, such as feelings of fear, anger, depression and whether we are attracted to something. So our basic emotions and hormonal balance are also reactions to smells. This makes fragrances very powerful in our daily lives. And because essential oils give us direct access to memory and emotions, they can also help with conditions like depression and anxiety.

Bergamot essential oil

Citrus essences have “preserved the power of the Sun”. Essential oils are not a “substitute for therapy”. However, they can specifically promote calm, joy, motivation or relaxation as they have been shown to have a positive effect on feelings and moods. Inhaling the aromatic plant essences activates not only the limbic system, but also the brain area of the endocrine system (hormones) and the immune system (protection). Studies have shown that various essential oils can subconsciously influence brain waves and thus the state of mind.

Bergamot essential oil is a great antidepressant because it is very pleasant and fresh. Bergamot creates a feeling of joy, freshness and energy because it improves blood circulation. A 2011 study proved that bergamot can be used as a natural remedy for anxiety. Another study in 2011 found that using a blend containing bergamot and lavender helped subjects relieve symptoms of depression.

The combination of bergamot and lavender essential oils helps to bring about positive changes in blood pressure, heart rate, respiration and skin temperature.

In addition, there is more relaxation, more strength, more calmness, more ability to concentrate, better mood and more alertness. Compared to placebo, the oil mixture used showed significant positive differences in heart rate and blood pressure. On an emotional level, participants were rated as much calmer and more relaxed than the control group. This study demonstrates the relaxing effect of a blend of lavender and bergamot essential oils and provides evidence for its quite beneficial use in reversing depression or anxiety disorders.

Lavender essential oil


Lavender essential oil
boosts mood and has long been used to help with depression. A study published in the International Journal of Psychiatry in Clinical Practice clearly shows that lavender essential oil can help relieve anxiety and depression. The study also indicates that there are no adverse side effects from using lavender oil. This is such special news because we also know that synthetic drugs and psychotropic drugs often have very negative side effects.

In a 2012 study published in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 28 women suffering from postpartum depression reported that diffusing lavender oil in their home led to a significant reduction in postnatal depression and reduced anxiety after four weeks of lavender intake.

Essential oil of ylang ylang


Essential oil of ylang-ylang
has an amazing effect by stimulating blood circulation, improving mood and relieving stress. Inhaling the aromatic molecules from the essential oil can have a direct positive effect on the emotional state. Ylang ylang has a mild, calming effect and therefore reduces stress reactions and aids relaxation. The oil helps neutralize emotions such as anger, jealousy and envy, and has a positive effect on self-esteem.

Essential oil of chamomile

Chamomile is one of the best healing herbs for stress relief and relaxation. Chamomile essential oil can give you peace of mind and instantly change your state of mind and mood. Inhaling this delicate fragrance can lead to a reduction in anxiety and depressive states.

Massage oil with chamomile essence soothes and relaxes depression and mood swings during pregnancy. The essence is often used in natural cosmetics. It has anti-inflammatory and soothing effects and is very well tolerated by children.

Vetiver essential oil

Due to its hormone-regulating effect, vetiver has long been considered an aphrodisiac and fertility aid. This oil can also be a useful companion during menopause. During menopause, it helps balance missing hormones and is used for this in the form of baths and body oils. The essence has an estrogen-like action and has a beneficial effect in postpartum depression (caused by a drop in hormone levels). It has good effects in patients, including children, with ADHD and ADHD or (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) as it has the ability to calm and relax. This product is also used as a learning aid as it aids concentration.

Essential oil of frankincense

Frankincense holds a special place in aromatherapy as a gentle remedy that stimulates the body’s self-healing powers and influences the human psyche. Hildegard von Bingen, abbess at the Rupertsberg monastery near Bingen, points out that it is the mixture of many aromas and psychoactive substances that gives incense its power, and when incense is used, the healing process begins.

More and more people these days are suffering from depression and anxiety. If you feel that you have similar signs, then essential oils will certainly help improve your condition. But, of course, if necessary, consult a specialist, since combination therapy gives the best results.