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Treating
Depression With Aromatherapy
.. continued from Page 1 - Treating
Depression With Aromatherapy:
Following are some oils that have
a reputation for up-lifting Shen, enhancing prana, nourishing
ojas, and brightening tejas - combinations that may have marked
effects on symptoms of depression. These oils can be used alone
or in combination in a nebulizing diffuser (producing a fine
mist of oils for inhalation), or in aromatherapy massage, thereby
inhaled and absorbed through the skin concurrently.
Bergamot (pressed from the peels of bitter
oranges) has a strong reputation for its ability to gently uplift.
In terms of Chinese medicine, this is a direct result of its
smoothing the flow of Liver-Qi ('Chi' or Life Force), the liver
being thought of as the seat of the eternal soul. Bergamot combines
the ability to both relax the nerves and refresh the Spirit;
it is suitable for many types of depressive states.
Neroli (from the flower of bitter oranges),
like Bergamot, regulates the Qi - and like Jasmine flower oil,
comforts the mind and heart. Neroli is called for at a core
level, for the type of depression that comes from nervous and
emotional exhaustion. Neroli uplifts the mind and Spirit with
its potential to nourish and unify. Neroli assists in retrieving
and releasing repressed emotions, with potential to nourish
and unify a fragmented psyche. Neroli is specifically indicated
for individuals who, in order to escape from emotional pain
and suffering, cut themselves off from their feelings and senses.
The Chamomiles (German and Roman) are wonderful
oils to use when the depression manifests in a moody, irritable,
dissatisfied outward expression associated with stagnant Liver-Qi.
These flower oils are earthy, rich, and grounding with subtle
uplifting qualities.
When depression is of a Fire (overly aggressive)
nature, it often involves an imbalance of joy and love - the
root emotions of the heart and mind. Joy is an extension of
Shen's (spiritual essence's) innate sense of harmony and perfection,
an experience of emotional and spiritual well-being. The depression
that afflicts the heart and Shen involves a loss of one's natural
sense of joy. There is often an accompanied lack of enthusiasm
and interest as well as an inability to become inspired. Rose
otto - steam distilled rose essential oil - or Rose Absolute
may have a profound effect on this state. Rose is thought the
premier heart opening aromatic, bringing joy, uplifting and
restoring balance.
What follows are a few recipes for uplifting
and releasing depressed emotional states - use your intuition
to find the right one. Often, the single essential oil or blend
you find most attractive will be the one that serves you best.
Experiment, explore, and have fun with these fantastic gifts
of nature. These blends may be used in a diffuser or candle
lamp, unless where a carrier oil is indicated - blends with
carriers are intended specifically for aromatherapy massage
(self-massage is very effective, as well as a simple massage
from a friend or loved one).
For releasing and opening the heart: 1
part Rose 3 parts Sandalwood 1 part Sweet Orange or Bergamot;
3 parts Jasmine 1 part Ylang Ylang 1 part Sandalwood
Brightening, refreshing and uplifting:
3 parts Bergamot 1 part Ylang Ylang 1 part Grapefruit; 2 parts
Bergamot 2 parts Clary Sage 1 part Frankincense; 3 parts Bergamot
or Sweet Orange 2 parts Clary Sage; 2 parts Frankincense 1 part
Lemon 1 part either Jasmine or Neroli
Nourishing: 1 part (Roman) Chamomile 1
part Vanilla 10 parts Carrier oil of choice
Floral and earthy (uplifting and softening
to Spirit): 1 part Neroli 1 part Vanilla 1 part Orange 1 part
Sandalwood; 1 part Chamomile 1 part Bergamot 1 part Helichrysum
Single oils can also be used, and should
be investigated so one can learn the different energies of each
plant. For depression associated with negativity: Bergamot,
Chamomile, Helichrysum, Neroli, or Sweet Orange. For a profound
lack of joy, try Rose, Jasmine, Patchouli, or Ylang Ylang. For
overthinking and worry, try Frankincense, Lemon, Marjoram, Myrrh
or Vetiver. For pessimism, regret and remorse, try Clary Sage,
Cypress, Hyssop, or Pine needle. For doubt of one's capacity
to cope with overwhelming situations, try Juniper Berry.
For cases of moderate to severe
depression, professional help should always be sought. It is
important to consider if you one requires professional help
if the depression is overwhelming - while aromatherapy can provide
support in a significant number of situations, it may not be
for everyone. Essential oils can safely be used in conjunction
with other treatments - consult your care giver to ensure there
are no conflicts if medications have been prescribed.
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