Looking for essential oils for postpartum depression? You have found the right page.
In this article, you will read about some of the best essential oils for postpartum depression that are evidence-based and considered safe to use.
Read: Essential Oils for Night Sweats
Contents
Essential Oils for Postpartum Depression
Here are some of the best essential oils:
1. Lemon Essential Oil
The lemon essential oil has a refreshing and uplifting aroma that is energizing and relaxing. It is also used to improve moods when used as aromatherapy.
It is often used to treat stress, anxiety, nervous tension, irritability, and insomnia during pregnancy and after childbirth.
Lemon essential oil is a powerful calming and mood-improving agent according to a 2006 study performed on mice.
2. Ylang Ylang Essential Oil
Ylang ylang essential oil has a sweet-smelling aroma that is calming and relaxing. Some women use this essential oil to treat and prevent postpartum depression.
Studies show that Ylang Ylang is also an effective treatment for anxiety, insomnia, nervous tension, and stress.
3. Clary Sage Essential Oil
Clary sage essential oil has an earthy scent that is grounding and relaxing. It also improves moods when used as aromatherapy.
A recent study shows that it can often be used to treat stress, anxiety, irritability, and insomnia during pregnancy and after birth.
4. Roman Chamomile Essential Oil
Roman chamomile essential oil is a popular choice for women who are looking for an effective treatment for postpartum depression. This essential oil has a floral smell that is calming and relaxing.
Studies show that Roman chamomile can be used by inhaling it directly from the bottle or diffusing it in the air.
5. Tangerine Essential Oil
The tangerine essential oil has a sweet and fruity aroma that not only smells great but also helps with relaxation.
A 2013 study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and alternative medicine shows that Tangerine essential oil is often used to treat anxiety, stress, nervous tension, irritability, and insomnia during pregnancy and after childbirth.
6. Cypress Essential Oil
Cypress essential oil has a woodsy and earthy smell that is grounding and relaxing. It is also used to improve moods when used as aromatherapy.
Cypress is often used to treat stress, anxiety, nervous tension, irritability, and insomnia during pregnancy and after childbirth.
A widely cited study that was published in 2013 shows that aromatic massage with the cypress essential oil has physical and psychological benefits including reducing depression and anxiety.
Precautions
- Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before use
- Don’t use if you have existing health issues such as asthma
- Avoid using to children below 2 years
Side Effects
Although side effects are not common, you may notice:
- Headache
- Allergic reaction (irritation & redness)
- Nasal irritation
- Nausea
How to Use Essential Oils for Postpartum Depression?
Diffusing
Diffusing is the most common way of using essential oils for postpartum depression.
You can diffuse your preferred essential oil for about 15 minutes in a room that is well ventilated and has enough sunlight. You can also diffuse the oil at night to help you relax before bedtime.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy uses scents and aromas to help reduce anxiety and depression. It is often used by those who want to use natural remedies instead of medication.
Some aromatherapists suggest adding a few drops of essential oils to bath water or diffusing them directly in the air to promote relaxation and rejuvenation.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy uses massage techniques to reduce pain, tension, stress, and anxiety in people who are struggling with psychiatric disorders such as postpartum depression or anxiety disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
The Bottom Line!
The above mentioned essential oils for postpartum depression are considered some of the best and they are usually safe for most people.
However, if you notice any discomfort instantly stop the use and consult with your physician.
The content present on this page has not been evaluated by any medical authorities e.g FDA. All the information present is solely for informational purposes and is not a substitute for the medical advice provided by your physician. We do not aim to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease or illness.
I am a medical student (MD) and a professional blogger. My aim is to help and educate people about essential oils and how they can be beneficial in improving overall health if used in a proper way.
