An excellent, completely natural option to combat depression and increase the effect of the treatment recommended by your doctor is the use of aromatherapy.
In this technique, essential oils from plants and fruits are used which, when inhaled, act at the brain level, increasing the production of hormones that alleviate the classic symptoms of depression, such as mood changes, discouragement and excessive tiredness.
See also some home remedies that can help treat depression.
Some of the oils that have scientific evidence to improve mood and reduce depression are:
1. Grapefruit
Grapefruit essential oil, known scientifically as Citrus paradiseis cold extracted from the peel of this fruit and is very rich in active substances such as limonene or alpha-pinene, which act in the brain, increasing the production and release of serotonin, an important hormone for maintaining a good mood.
Furthermore, on a psychological level, grapefruit essential oil also seems to stimulate and invigorate, being an important ally in increasing energy and reducing everyday tension.
Care when using this oil
As it is stimulant, grapefruit oil should be avoided by pregnant women without the advice of a doctor or naturopath. Furthermore, it is an oil that causes photosensitivity and, therefore, it is recommended to avoid exposing yourself to the sun immediately after inhaling and, if possible, during treatment with this oil.
2. Ilangue-ilangue
Ylangue-ylang essential oil is an essence that has a very complete therapeutic effect on an emotional and psychological level, as it seems to be able to balance the entire central nervous system, reducing negative emotions and combating apathy.
It also combats other symptoms that are very common in people with depression such as insomnia, obsessive thoughts and lack of self-confidence.
Care when using this oil
You should not abuse the use of this oil, as its strong smell can cause nausea and headaches in some people.
3. Melissa
A Melissa officinalis, popularly known as lemon balm, is a plant that is widely used in the form of tea for its calming and relaxing effects. However, its essential oil also has similar properties, being able to act on the brain and balance the emotions of depressed people who are more sensitive to daily tension.
Furthermore, due to its citrus smell, which derives from its rich citral composition, lemon balm essential oil has an action on nicotinic receptors, helping to stop smoking. This effect is especially important since many people with depression become addicted to smoking as a way to relieve stress.
Care when using this oil
There are no known special precautions for the use of Melissa officinalisHowever, during pregnancy its use must be supervised by a doctor or naturopath.
4. Nardo
Spikenard, known scientifically as Nardostachys jatamansi, is excellent in cases of depression, especially in people who are based on heartbreak, helping to develop acceptance. Furthermore, its aroma is very comforting, bringing peace of mind.
Care when using this oil
Spikenard is a strong oil that can cause skin irritation. For this reason, it should not be applied to the skin, nor near the eyes. During pregnancy, it should only be used under the guidance of a doctor or naturopath.
How to use these oils correctly
The way to use the essential oil with the best therapeutic effect is by inhaling it directly from the bottle, as this way the oil molecules can quickly reach the brain, causing rapid changes in emotions.
To inhale correctly, you must open the lid, place the bottle close to your nose and inhale deeply, then keep the air inside your lungs for 2 to 3 seconds and release the air again through your mouth. Initially, you should take 3 inhalations in a row several times a day, but over time you should increase this to 5 or 7 inhalations.
