Mindfulness: Why aromatherapy can help fight stress and depression
Aromatherapy – with the help of a diffuser – can actually have a plethora of benefits, including better mental health


By Matt Evans
Aromatherapy uses plant extracts and essential oils to promote health and well-being. It's very widely used across the world – and has been for hundreds of years –but does it have a place today, especially in home use?
The answer is yes. Although it's hardly the "cure-all" traditional medicine is was once believed to be, ,any modern scientific studies suggest that aromatherapy can be used as a complimentary therapy treatment, helping to ease feelings of anxiety, stress and depression at home using scents that encourage relaxation.
- Best diffusers for essential oils
- Natural back pain remedies: 7 easy ways to overcome pain
- Black Friday fitness deals, including cheap diffusers
Researchers from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University in Kowloon examined twelve different studies analysing aromatherapy's effect on mental health. One Japanese study found the citrus fruit yuzu's aromatic effects alleviate negative emotional stress, correlating with lower production of the fight-or-flight hormone adrenaline and cortisol, which is known as the "stress hormone".
If aromatherapy can relax us, reducing the production of cortisol, it can also help us manage our weight. Higher levels of cortisol are associated with insulin resistance, which is related to spikes in our blood sugar, weight gain and Type-2 diabetes.
Indianapolis researchers also found aromatherapy can reduce anxiety and depression symptoms in postpartum women. This study used a combination of rose and lavender. two scents readily available for home diffusers.
This study used a combination of rose and lavender. two scents readily available for home use. Lavender has also been used as a way to aid sleep, often used on pillows before bedtime or included in "sleepytime" style herbal teas.
Home diffusers are probably the easiest way to get into aromatherapy at home. They're handy devices which blend essential oils with water and release them into the air as a gas. Some of the cheaper options use reeds, but the best diffusers are electric, using ultrasonic pulses to blend the oils and puff out gas at regular intervals.
The best diffuser options also have alarms and automatic timers, so you can have them prepare your room with a relaxing scent before you head to bed, an energising one as you wake up or circulate a de-stressing scent through the house just before you finish work.
Aromatherapy expert Robert Tisserand said: “Studies have shown that aromatherapy by inhalation can have real benefits for people with anxiety, depression and even menstrual pain.”
If you struggle to de-stress, sleep, require more energy or need relief from anxiety and depression symptoms, aromatherapy might be a potent tool in your arsenal.
Liked this?
-
-
People with low fitness are nearly twice as likely to experience depression
Fitness Getting fit benefits body and mind, as it's been found those with low muscle and heart health are at risk of mental health issues
By Matt Evans •
-
Air fryer deal: Save 50% on this Insignia digital air fryer at Best Buy
Deal Healthier cooking is yours to command, as this great Insignia 5qt air fryer is half-price at Best Buy
By Matt Evans •
-
Best fish oil supplements: Boost your omega-3 for amazing heart & joint health
Buying Guide How to select the best fish oil supplements on the market
By Claire Fox •
-
The best supplements for joints: Supps to beat inflammation and arthritis pain
Seniors Aches, pains and stiffness? The best supplements for joints may help you live a happier, healthier life
By Charlotte Haigh •
-
Why everyone should read a book before bed to get better sleep
Sleep The science behind snuggling up with a good book to improve your bedrest and get better sleep
By Matt Evans •
-
Why "resilience" matters, according to these mental health experts
Wellness Learning to cope with lockdown can be tough, but mental health experts have got a checklist for developing resilience
By Matt Evans •
-
Best menopause supplements: Beat hot flushes, mood swings and dryness
Buying Guide Our guide to the best menopause supplements that can help with a host of common symptoms
By Fit&Well •
-
Menopause: Why some women experience symptoms differently to others
Seniors Doing research on your menopause symptoms can be vital, as not all women's experiences will be identical
By Matt Evans •
-
Skincare: The one daily habit that will lead to healthier skin at any age
Wellness Using sunscreen every day can lead to younger-looking, healthier skin – according to science
By Matt Evans •
-
Best vitamins for women over 50: The supps to improve vitality and stay healthy
Seniors A no-nonsense guide to the best vitamins for women over 50, including vitamin D, 50+ multivitamins and more
By Claire Fox •