Bipolar disorder, also referred to as manic depression, is a mental health disorder that causes extreme mood swings, which include emotional highs and lows.
An imbalance in the chemicals responsible for controlling the brain’s functions (including – serotonin, noradrenaline, and dopamine) is thought to be responsible for this mental condition.
About 2.6% of people in the United States experience the condition. Diagnosis usually often occurs between the ages of 15 and 25 years, however, it can happen at any age.
Here is a list of 10 essential oils for bipolar disorder:
#1 Lavender
For more than 2,700 years, this oil or the flower itself has been documented in religious and medicinal uses, from ancient documents through modern movements.
It is known for its relaxing and calming properties, that may help alleviate anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, depression, and stress.
#2 Basil
This essential oil is produced from Basil (scientific name – Ocimum basilicum L.), an edible, fragrant leafy herb that belongs to the Lamiaceae family.
Inhaling basil essential oil can help fight fatigue and restore mental alertness since it is naturally a stimulant that works on the adrenal cortex (mediates the stress response) and nervous system.
Due to its carminative properties, it helps reduce constipation, indigestion, and stomach cramps. Also, it helps expel gas from the intestine and stomach.
#3 Eucalyptus
It is produced from the steam distillation of the leaves of the Eucalyptus trees. It requires approximately 22.6 kilograms (50 pounds) of eucalyptus leaves to yield one pound of essential oil.
This oil can be used for a variety of respiratory ailments, like – flu, cough, bronchial diseases, congestion, asthma, lungs infection, and other.
More importantly, it has a cooling effect on strong emotions, relieving stress and rejuvenating the spirit. Also, it can improve concentration, stimulate the mind, and reduce mental fatigue.
#4 Rosemary
It has been shown to have potent antioxidant properties, helping to protect the human body against free radicals that may damage cell membranes and DNA.
In addition, rosemary essential oil improves memory and brain function, hence, it is excellent to use when reading, working, or studying.
Inhalation of this natural remedy has been shown to reduce the level of cortisol in the saliva, which is one of the main stress hormones released during the natural response of the human body to stress.
It can also thicken the hair naturally, therefore, it is an excellent addition to homemade shampoos.
#5 Frankincense
Derived from gum resins of Boswellia trees (native to the Arabian Peninsula), this oil is prepared through a process of steam distillation.
It has numerous properties which can improve mental clarity and alertness as well as it can reduce emotional stress levels and improve sleep quality. Furthermore, it has been noted in dermatology to help soothe dry skin and heal minor blemishes.
#6 Thyme
It has potent antiseptic, antibacterial, and expectorant properties which help the body to fight against infections that cause a cough and the common cold as well as drain congestion.
Moreover, thyme essential oil has terrific anti-cancer properties against human cancer cells in prostate cancer, breast cancer, and lung cancer, according to a 2010 study issued in the Molecules journal.
Due to its anti-spasmodic properties, thyme essential oil helps relax veins and arteries, thus, reducing blood pressure and unnecessary stress to the heart. Also, it may help tone and strengthen heart muscles.
#7 Cinnamon
Cinnamon essential oil is produced from the plant of the species named Laurus Cinnamomum. The aroma of this oil is uplifting and warming to the senses.
The antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties are a simple way to fight infection.
Additionally, cinnamon essential oil has the capacity to boost brain activity and reduce stress levels, according to a study conducted at the Wheeling Jesuit University, USA.
#8 Melissa
Melissa officinalis, also referred as lemon balm, contains – citronellol (responsible for the lemony smell), Citral, Limonene (prevents cancer, promotes weight loss, and treats bronchitis), Geraniol, pinene, and linalool.
Being an antibacterial, lemon balm essential oil fights against microbial and bacterial infections in the human body, including those which cause fever.
It also contains eugenol, a plant compound that acts like a natural anti-inflammatory that helps soothe painful conditions, like arthritis. Moreover, it can be used to bring emotional balance.
#9 Rose
Rose essential oil is produced by extracting Rosa damascena, a rose hybrid, derived from Rosa moschata and Rosa gallica.
It contains – citral (a strong antimicrobial agent) and citronella (an effective mosquito repellant). Also, this essential oil relieves coughs linked with respiratory conditions, like – asthma and allergies.
Rose essential oil can also be useful in cases of inflammation caused by microbial infection, dehydration, and indigestion, as well as for relieving the feeling of depression and elevating moods.
#10 Peppermint
This essential oil may be useful for easing nervousness, calming frayed nerves, alleviating feelings of mental fatigue, and promoting mental clarity, according to authors James B. LaValle and Janet Zand in their book “Smart Medicine for Healthier Living.”
More importantly, peppermint essential oil increases alertness and boosts memory, as per a study carried out by The International Journal of Neuroscience.
Also, a study even supports the use of this oil to calm the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and relieve headaches.
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