Alleviate Depression

Article by David W Bates

There are many oils used by Aromatherapists that can reduce stress and help alleviate depression. Some of the more popular and accessible are listed below.

BasilThere are many varieties of Basil but the one most favoured in Aromatherapy is French Sweet Basil. Obtained by the distallation process it has a clear and spicy aroma reminiscent of aniseed and generally stimulates the whole nervous system. Blends well with other oils including geranium, orange, peppermint, neroli, frankincense and lemon. Often used as a massage oil, in baths or as a room fragrancer.

FrankincenseThe oil is steam distillated from a resin which exudes from the cut bark of the Frankincense shrub. It has a woody spicy odour. Blends well with many other oils including basil, camomile, lemon, rosemary, juniper and rose. It has a strong calming effect and can be used as a perfume or in a massage or bath.

GeraniumGeranium has a delicate, sweet and floral smell it is steam distilled from the flowers, stalks and leaves of the plant. It blends with most other oils creating very pleasant fragrances. Often used as a perfume, in baths, as a massage oil and as a room fragrance. It has a positive effect on both body and mind which alleviates stress and depression.

JasmineJasmine oil has a rich floral smell redolent of the flowers it is produced from. It mixes well with other oils especially orange, rose, geranium, mandarin and sandalwood. It is useful as an anti-depressant and is also favoured as a skin-care oil. Jasmine is ideal for use in baths, massage oil, perfume and as a room fragancer.

LavenderHas a sweet, fresh floral aroma. The oils are steam distilled from the flowering tops of the plants which are found growing worldwide. It blends well with most other oils. Lavender is a very popular aromatherapy oil it is a therapeutic oil having numerous effects and is highly recommended as an anti-depressant.

LemonLemon is sharp and fresh with a distinctive citrus aroma. The oil is produced by squeezing (cold expression) the skin of the fruit. The oil refreshes and invigorates, making it ideal as an antidote to lethargy and a depressed state of mind.

MandarinMandarin has a more delicate aroma than lemon with a fresh sweet citrus scent. The oil is squeezed from the rind of the small Chinese variety of fruit. Used mostly in steam inhalation, baths, hair care, compress and massage. It is not thought advisable to be used for small children.

Alleviate Depression

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