In my previous blog post "The Faces of Depression," I talked about the different kinds of depression, and how anxiety can feed off of someone with depression. This post will focus on how to treat anxiety and depression with the use of essential oils. Since I suffer from both of these, I will give you my personal opinion on what works for me. AnxietyAnxiety is a very common problem and many suffer from it, including me. Anxiety is constantly there. Any simple change in my daily schedule can cause stress and panic. Some days, I even have a hard time going to the grocery store because I am anxious about what that entails. For many people, simple tasks like shopping are easy and carefree, but for someone with anxiety, it can be very difficult. I do not agree with the use of prescriptions to help with this condition because they are basically tranquilizers. They slow down the nervous system which in turn creates a relaxing and calming effect. Many popular anxiety medications are Xanax, Klonopin, Valium, and Ativan. In my opinion the side effects can be worse than the anxiety itself. These medications have even worse side effects for teens and the elderly including: mania, hostility and rage, aggressive and impulsive behavior, and hallucinations. These medications can also be deadly when mixed with antihistamines, antidepressants, and/or alcohol. DepressionThere are so many different kinds of depression, reference my previous blog post The Faces of Depression if you are unsure about which kind of depression you suffer from. I personally suffer from manic depression, A.K.A Bipolar Depression. I have had many Doctors try to help me manage my condition. However, up until this year I was misdiagnosed with the kind of depression I had. Because of this, I did not receive proper treatment. Since my journey of living holistically I have grown to love Essential Oils for my care. I do not take any prescription medication for my condition. I personally take St. John's Wort for my depression, and that has helped tremendously in dealing with my depression and anxiety. Again I do not agree with prescription medication, their side effects are even worse than anxiety medication. There is a long list of medication for depression, each with its own different list of side effects. If you wish to check it out click here to visit WebMd. A lot of these medications can't be mixed with other medications, including anxiety medication. So instead of using medications here are some amazing essential oils for chronic anxiety & depression! #1 Bergamot Essential Oil (EO) Bergamot EO is a powerful citrus essential oil that creates uplifting effects. Bergamot has a long history of helping feelings of stress. A study done in Taiwan in 2011 treated highly stressed teachers with 10 minutes of bergamot EO aromatherapy. The result showed a reduction in blood pressure and heart rate while also balancing nervous activity. Note: Bergamot EO is photosensitive, which means it reacts with direct sunlight. Avoid sunlight when using bergamot topically on the skin. #2 Lavender Essential Oil Lavender EO is my go to oil. I never leave home without it, because it is so amazing at so many things. In a 2007 study, Lavender aromatherapy reduced serum cortisol. Serum Cortisol is a key player in the body’s response to stress. Lavender is also shown to have no sedative effects and no potential drug abuse. #3 Clary Sage Essential Oil Clary sage EO provides a clearing of the mind. It is known to make users feel uplifted and euphoric. Added to a warm bath or diffused before bed, it can calm and clear the mind. Even more essential oils! |
Here are the 2 of my favorite blog posts about essential oils for depression & anxiety. Check them out if you wish to learn more.
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Blue Orchid Clinic owner Brittany, has put this blog together to discuss health topics and alternatives to your traditional care regimen. Discussions will also include useful information for everyday life as well.