Aromatherapy For SAD
As the days grow shorter and the weather outside starts to change for the season many people face the impeding disorder of SAD, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder. The lack of sunlight can cause symptoms of fatigue, oversleeping, sadness, [...]
As the days grow shorter and the weather outside starts to change for the season many people face the impeding disorder of SAD, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder. The lack of sunlight can cause symptoms of fatigue, oversleeping, sadness, depression, irritation, decreased sex drive, and loss of pleasure and interest in life.
A holistic approach to treating SAD includes light therapy, diet changes, nutrient supplementation, exercise, and the use of essential oils, which can bring some aromatic light into the dark of winters.
How essential oils work:
Essential oils stimulate the nerve endings of the olfactory bulb, which lies at the back of the nose. These nerve endings stimulate a part of the brain called the limbic system, associated with our most primal instincts, emotions, and memories. Essential oils are particularly effective at stimulating the olfactory system because the molecules of the oils are so small that they enter the bloodstream rapidly and are carried to all parts of the body. This allows the aromatic essences of the oils to affect not just our sense of smell but our entire being. Alive.com
Aromatherapy can have a very profound difference when added to other alteration to treating SAD. Often times the hardest part of sticking to a dietary change or exercise routine during the winter is finding the motivation and strength. Essential oils and aromatherapy can give you what this extra boost that is needed during this season. So, what are some great oils to consider when Season Depression starts to hit?
Here is a list of ones that I have personally used before. If you have tried others please add them to your comments.
Petitgrain- has an uplifting floral, citrus scent. The oil is made from steam-distilling the leaves and twigs of the sweet orange tree. Petitgrain can be uplifting, balancing, calming, and refreshing when used as an inhalant or with a diffuser. It can also be used on the skin with a carrier oil or used in a massage oil or bath.
Bergamot- has a fresh, sweet, fruity scent (it’s often described as being like sunshine in a bottle), and has an uplifting, cheerful effect. Bergamot can help with anxiety, stress, tension, agitation, depression, and insomnia. Bergamot can be used in a diffuser, through a carrier oil such as jojoba, or bath.
Lemon- has the unmistakable smell of fresh lemons. The oil can stimulate the white blood cells that defend the body against infection. Lemon is refreshing and cooling, brings clarity to mind and emotions, restores vitality, and encourages clear thinking. Its antimicrobial properties and fresh scent also make lemon a great household cleanser and air freshener. Use as an inhalant or with a diffuser, or on skin with a carrier oil in massage oil or bath.
Neroli- has a light, sweet floral fragrance. It is extracted from the flowers of bitter orange. Neroli has a balancing tonic effect on the nervous system and can be relaxing and uplifting. It is great for treating anxiety, nervous tension, and depression. Its ability to stimulate new cell growth makes it very valuable in skin care. Use as an inhalant or with a diffuser, or on skin with a carrier.
Jasmine- is considered emotionally warming and is very useful for relieving sexual anxiety and fear. The oil is very relaxing and promotes happiness and relaxation due to the esters it contains. Use as an inhalant or with a diffuser, in a massage oil, or in a bath.
Rise and Sunshine!
Aromatic Inhalation and Diffuser Blend
25 drops petitgrain
30 drops bergamot
20 drops lavender
25 drops lemon
Makes a 5 mL bottle. Use 4 to 8 drops in a room diffuser or inhale right from the bottle. Can also be added to a bath with a carrier oil, salts, or powdered milk.
Summer Garden Aromatic Bath
5 drops jasmine
5 drops neroli
5 drops lavender
5 drops bergamot
5 drops petitgrain
125 mL milk powder
125 mL baking soda
Mix milk powder and baking soda together, knead essential oils into the mixture so that it is well-blended. Add half or all of it to a tub of hot water.
Other considerations to use is any blend that is citrus based. Grapefruit, Sweet Orange, Lime, and Tangerine as all effective choices. I carry the grapefruit with me and use it as need to brighten the day up.
Source: Alive, Treating SAD
Bev Gray, RA, CH
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I am a Holistic Life Coach, health coach and meditation teacher. My goal is to help people find inner peace and contentment during times of stress and worry. I have a passion for assisting those with anxiety disorders, stress, health and nutrition. I believe we are made of mind, body, soul, and environment. It is of much importance to keep good health in each one of these areas.