Bipolar disorder is a mental situation where a person experiences extreme mood swing. His/her mood can shift from extreme depression to mania. [1]
Also known as manic-depressive disorder, it’s a serious psychiatric condition that may cause dangerous behaviors, even suicidal tendencies.
Therefore, it’s important to treat this condition as soon as possible. Some therapies and medications can treat this psychiatric disorder. You can also try essential oils for bipolar disorder to soothe some of the symptoms.
Continue reading to learn about some calming essential oils that may reduce stress and depression due to bipolar disorder.
Best Essential Oils for Bipolar Disorder That You May Try
Some essential oils can improve mental condition with their soothing effect and ability to improve blood circulation.
But, These essential oils are complementary remedies. They may not treat bipolar completely. You should also discuss with a doctor before using them.
Here are some of the best essential oils for bipolar disorder:
1. Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil originates from the evergreen eucalyptus tree. Eucalyptol or 1,8- cineole is the key component of eucalyptus that can make 30-90% of this essential oil.
A study in 2016 shows eucalyptus oil has a positive effect on human psychology such as mood, stress, anxiety, etc. [3]
It means this essential oil can control your emotional state if you have bipolar disorder. [3]
Eucalyptus oil is quite effective in treating mental disorders and stress. It can also improve blood circulation to your brain.
2. Frankincense Oil
Frankincense oil comes from the gum-like resin of the Boswellia tree. People use this oil in aromatherapy for its numerous health benefits.
Frankincense oil can treat numerous physical and mental issues. This essential oil can keep your body warm and soothe senses.
There was a study to test the effect on psychological well-being and mental health. [4]
The result shows frankincense oil has positive effects on mood, memory, and learning. Using this oil may help with bipolar disorder. [4]
Related: 12 Health Benefits of Frankincense Oil + How to Use It
3. Cinnamon Oil
Cinnamon essential oil comes from a plant that belongs to the Laurus Cinnamomum species. The oil is quite popular due to its therapeutic properties.
The incredible aroma of cinnamon oil can uplift your mood. It can enhance your immunity.
The oil has an anti-depressant effect. Therefore, it can ward off negative thoughts and kill depression and anxiety.
There was a study published in 2017. It shows the ability of cinnamon oil to reduce anxiety and depression in mice. [5]
The result shows repetitive administration of cinnamon oil has anti-anxiety and anti-depressant activities in mice. [5]
Hence, you can use this oil if you have bipolar disorders.
4. Rose Oil
Rose oil is derived from Rosa damascene petals. It is rich in numerous medicinal properties that bring wellness in mind and body.
There was a study to evaluate the therapeutic effects of rose oil. It shows the oil has analgesic and anti-anxiety effects on human. [6]
Hence, if you have developed anxiety and depression due to bipolar symptoms, rose oil may help you. Besides, the smell of rose oil can also reduce the stress level.
5. Basil Oil
Basil oil originates from the herb basil. It’s rich in antiviral, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic properties. Since ancient time, people have been using this oil to treat a migraine and chest infection.
Apart from this, basil oil can also combat fatigue and restore mental alertness. It’s because this oil is a potent stimulant that works on the nervous system.
Study shows, inhaling basil oil can help you if you’re mentally exhausted. [7] Therefore, it may reduce the symptoms of bipolar disorders as well.
6. Lemon Balm Oil
Lemon balm essential oil comes from the leaves, buds, and twigs of Melissa Officinalis. It’s a traditional remedy for migraine, insomnia, anxiety, hypertension, etc.
A 2004 study shows the ability of lemon balm oil to ease the negative emotions and calm human mind. [8]
In another animal study, it was showed that the anxiolytic and antidepressant effects of lemon balm oil could ease mental disorders like anxiety, depression, etc. [9]
From these studies, we can say that this oil may have positive effects on those with bipolar disorder.
7. Sandalwood Oil
Sandalwood and its essential oil are vital ingredients in Ayurveda. Several cosmetics and perfume manufacturers use this oil in their products due to its incredible smell.
Sandalwood oil can induce concentration, relaxation, calmness, inner vision, and positive thinking.
A study was published in 2006. It shows sandalwood oil can induce alertness, calmness, relaxation, and vigor in humans. [10]
Due to its sedative effects, this essential oil can also ease fear, anxiety, restlessness, and stress.
8. Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil originates from the plant rosemary (Rosmarinus Officinalis).
Rosemary is quite popular for its culinary effect. Its essential oil is also effective in treating so many physical and mental disorder.
Rosemary oil can reduce depression and stress level. There was a study published in the International Journal of Neuroscience. It tested the oil’s efficacy in mood stabilization. [11]
Among 140 participants, those who used rosemary oil showed a better result in reducing the stress level. [11]
Using rosemary oil in aromatherapy has great effects on bipolar. It can reduce stress, anxiety, depression and other symptoms of bipolar disorder. [12]
Related: Rosemary Oil: 13 Benefits and Uses for Skin, Hair, and Health
How to Use Essential Oils for Bipolar Disorder
Here are some ways to use essential oils to soothe the symptoms of bipolar disorders:
- Pour a little amount of essential oils in a diffuser. Inhale the aroma to calm yourself down.
- You can also pour some essential oils in a handkerchief and inhale the aroma throughout the day.
- Take 2-4 drops of any essential oil and dilute it using a carrier oil. Massage your forehead and temple with the oil.
Precautions While Using Essential Oils
Essential oils can be harmful sometimes if you don’t know how to use them. As for bipolar disorder, the consequences can be more dangerous if used in the wrong way. Thus, you should maintain the following precautions:
- Don’t forget to dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil before you use them topically.
- Do a patch test before you use them on your skin.
- If you’re on medication, consult with your doctor before using them.
- You must talk to a doctor about using essential oils if you’re pregnant.
When Should You Visit The Psychiatrist?
Bipolar disorder is a severe mental condition. Thus, you should seek immediate medical help if you or your loved one has the symptoms.
Essential oils may help reduce some of the symptoms, but can’t treat the disease completely. Besides, some people with bipolar disorder can become suicidal. So, you must consult with a psychiatrist if you see the symptoms:
- Severe depression.
- You’re isolating yourself.
- Facing more accidents.
- Becoming reckless.
- Talking about suicide.
- Becoming more emotionally expressive.
If you are not comfortable to visit a psychotherapist in person, you can also go for online therapy. There are some reliable websites where you can get online therapy.
The best part of getting online therapy is that it’s less time consuming and cost-effective. Besides, you can have the session with your therapist at any time you want. You can have a video conference with your therapist, email them, or text them. All of these can be done at your convenience.
Final Word
Bipolar disorder is something that can’t be taken lightly. Anyone with this condition is dangerous for themselves, as well as for their loved ones.
You should see a psychiatrist immediately if you see the slightest symptoms of this condition.
Various medications or yoga may help tone down some of the symptoms. You can also use essential oils for bipolar disorder to calm yourself down.
Frequent mood swings can hamper your daily life. You may also become suicidal. Therefore, bipolar disorder should be treated as soon as possible.
References
- https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/therapy/what-are-the-best-online-therapy-sites/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5299125/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5198031/
- http://www.trcw.ac.cn/EN/abstract/abstract9409.shtml
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5569441/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5511972/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23140115
- https://journals.lww.com/psychosomaticmedicine/Abstract/2004/07000/Attenuation_of_Laboratory_Induced_Stress_in_Humans.22.aspx
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3326910/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16783696
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3700080/
