NATURE’S FRAGRANT ANTI-DEPRESSANTS

by

MARLENE HOUGHTON, CH Ed Dip NuTh, SNHS [Herb]

SNHS Dip [Advanced Herbalism]

Who does not feel gloomy during the sign of mystical Pisces, the time of year under the dominance of the Fishes [late February and early March]. It is a time when lots of rain and gusty winds make us long for Spring. Although temperatures are beginning to climb upwards, washing away the Winter’s snow and ice, there is no guarantee that they will improve mood. While anticipating the warmer temperatures with enthusiasm, during the last vestiges of Winter, we all tend to feel in need of a spiritual uplift. Without resorting to orthodox drugs with all their attendant side effects, there are natural mood lifters available to us all that can help to overcome feelings of depression.

Aromatherapy, a very popular complementary treatment, is the art and science of using aromatic oils to help us relax, balance and stimulate body, mind and spirit. With a blending of aroma and therapy we can use these perfumed oils for treatment of low spirits at this time of the year.

The essential oils that fall into the category of natural anti-depressants are available from good independent health stores. When given a bouquet of roses, how do you feel? When you breathe in the fragrance of these lovely Venusian flowers does their sweet aroma go straight to your head? Science has found that aromatic molecules stimulate our olfactory nerves, sending impulses to a part of the brain called the limbic system. It is in this system that memories and emotions reside. Negative emotions such as grief and depression can suppress the body’s ability to produce hormones that help to keep us in balance. Essential oil aromas stimulate the body’s natural healing powers and help to restore homeostasis or a healthy balance. In this way, the careful selection of the right aromatherapy oils can help to overcome feelings of depression, lifting our mood and making us feel better.

These essential oils are Nature’s anti-depressants – Rose Otto, also called Bulgarian rose. An expensive oil with a heady aroma, Rose Otto is the undisputed queen of essential oils and acts as a natural mood lifter.

Depression that is hormone-related responds well to Clary Sage, Ylang Ylang and Geranium. These oils are believed to encourage oestrogen production. Basil, Bergamot, Grapefruit, Jasmine, Lavender, Neroli, Orange, Patchouli, Petitgrain and Sandalwood are also used to help lift emotional mood and achieve inner balance. Bergamot is particularly helpful when coming to terms with the loss of a loved one as it is thought to help with grief and the depression that follows such a sad event. These oils contain the life force of the plant and are powerful healers. Mother Nature has given us such a wealth of oils that there is sure to be one that is just right for your vibrational energies. 

When selecting aromatherapy oils, be guided by what you find pleasing. Everyone is different, we all respond to each oil in an individual way. Essential oils can be dispersed in the air with a diffuser. This is a good way to enjoy the fragrance of your favourite oil throughout the day. They can also be made up into magical mixtures using a carrier oil for use in therapeutic massages. Enjoying a massage, whilst inhaling the fragrance of the essential oil of your choice, is a very healing experience. The skin can absorb these oils and massage assists in the elimination of toxic wastes. Negative emotions dissolve away as tensions are released, soothing our psyche and healing our spirits and enhance your aura.

 So to chase away the Winter blues, utilise the power of Mother Nature’s pure essential oils. Their curative properties will clear your head, boost your energies and put you in the pink!

Spring 2005