The Holy Trinity of Essential Oils Which Will Relieve Depression and Anxiety

Nowadays, there are many discussions on the Internet regarding emotional disorders. Surveys say that 1 out of 8 Americans suffers from depression, but around 80% of those people do not receive the proper treatment. At the same time, about 20% of the people – circa 40 million adults – suffer from anxiety, making these two the most comm0n mental disorders in America.

Various studies show that anti-anxiety medications are directly connected with dementia, making this the reason why patients should seek other forms of treatment. For instance, essential oils have been found to be a better, healthier alternative to anxiety – and the method for it to take effect is aromatherapy.

Controlling the Emotions with Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy has been continuously criticized throughout time by professionals as pseudo-science, but the medicine behind this is actually very well-established. The US National Library of Medicine proved that there are over 6500 cases of patients who showed dramatic improvements after using essential oils as treatment. Plus, the number seems to be increasing every day as well.

When they are used in aromatherapy, the oils from various plants are extracted and distilled. Afterward, they can be either inhaled or applied to the skin by means of lotions, massages or bath salts. The smell of the oils will stimulate the smell receptors which will then use the nervous system to send a message to the limbic system, the part of the brain responsible for handling emotions.

Three Essential Oils to Use

In order to make aromatherapy work, here are the three oils which you will have to use.

• Bergamot

There have been various historical reports which proved that bergamot essential oil has calming and antidepressant properties. Their claims have also been supported by scientific studies done as recently as 2011. Bergamot was used on teachers who worked under a lot of stress, using inhalation as a therapy. The result was that after a week of 10-minute inhalations, their heart rate had been reduced and their blood pressure had been regulated. Studies done on animals show that bergamot oil is just as effective as diazepam.

• Sage

Not only is sage known for its wonderful taste and smell, but it also has significant antidepressant properties. Studies made in 2010 show that sage is an effective ally in improving the symptoms of depression and anxiety. The oil can either be bought or you can get is from the plant. You can extract the oil by rubbing the leaves between your fingers.

• Lavender

Last but not least, lavender is one of the most popular choices when it comes to aromatherapy. It has anti-anxiety and neuroprotective properties, and it also showed to be a good mood stabilizer, sedative and antidepressant. Studies made in 2007 show that lavender can reduce the cortisol levels (stress hormones) in patients suffering from anxiety.

Whether you are feeling a bit under the weather or you simply want to relax your brain, try aromatherapy to soothe your nerves. The essential oil you use will depend on your personal preference.