Diffuse your way to Treating SAD
Plan ahead for SAD!
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) seriously affects thousands during our long, dark, cold winters. The lack of sunlight can cause symptoms like 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, dietary changes, nutrient supplementation, exercise, and the use of essential oils, which can bring some aromatic light into the dark of northern winters.
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.
Essential oils can act as a restorative to the spirit when used in an aromatherapy diffusor, bath, or in a massage oil.
Essential Oils for SAD
• Clary sage (mild depression, aggression, PMS) • Lemon & grapefruit (mild depression, water retention) • Rosemary, basil (fatigue, mental confusion, respiratory concerns) • Pettigrain & bergamot (balancing, uplifting) • Lavender (insomnia, tension headaches)
Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) 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 diffusor, bath, or on the skin with a carrier oil (do not apply directly to skin).
Lemon (Citrus limonum) 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.
Aromatic Inhalation through Kasia Apothecary Diffusion Blends.....
Lemonlift and Lavendaire!
Reference: Bev Gray, RA, CH, is a Yukoner, skilled herbalist, and registered aromatherapist who loves to share her passion for medicinal and aromatic plants. aromaborealis.com