6 Top Essential Oils for Depression + How to Use Them

5 min to read
Andrea Butje
05/27/2023

Have you ever found tranquility in the heart of nature - in a lush garden or a serene forest - feeling an instantaneous sense of calm and connection?

This is the kind of solace that can be derived from some of the most potent essential oils known for their antidepressant properties.

These oils, resplendent in their natural properties, have been subjected to numerous scientific studies for their potent ability to soothe the nervous system and evoke feelings of happiness. However, utilizing essential oils to alleviate depression can be highly personalized; the right oils and their usage methods can make all the difference in the outcomes you experience.

In this blog, I will highlight three unique aromatherapy methods that can be tailored to your preference. I will then delve into how aromatherapy can help you reconnect with yourself, and introduce six of my recommended essential oils known to combat depression. Armed with this knowledge, you can then opt for the aromatherapy method best suited for you, decide on the emotions you want to manifest, and select oils with aromas that you find particularly pleasing.

If you'd like to learn more about how to mix and match these oils to create your personalized blend, I invite you to watch this YouTube video where I demonstrate various options and methods. It's a practical guide designed to help you craft your unique aromatherapy blend for combating depression. Remember, the magic lies in discovering what works best for you. Happy blending!

3 Tailored Methods to Utilize Essential Oils for Depression

1. Transmute Your Space with Oil Diffusion Diffusing essential oils can transform your environment, infusing the air with captivating aromas that can lift your mood, calm your mind, and root you in the present. Typically, I recommend diffusing approximately 8 to 9 drops of essential oil for about 15 to 20 minutes for optimum effect.

2. Breathe in Wellness with an Aromatherapy Inhaler An aromatherapy inhaler allows for direct inhalation of essential oils. This method is particularly handy if you are unable to diffuse oils in your work environment or if others in your household prefer not to be exposed to these scents. When familiar waves of melancholy start to surface, take a few moments with your inhaler, allowing the deep, calming breaths to dissipate tension and foster serenity. For inhalers, about 15 drops of essential oil are usually sufficient.

3. Soothe Your Skin with Essential Oil Cream Applying essential oils through a skin cream can provide deep comfort. The cream nourishes your skin, and a gentle self-massage can alleviate tension. Visualize your skin being enveloped in a nurturing, aromatic blanket of essential oils (think of it as a comforting aromatherapy embrace!). Try adding 10 to 12 drops of essential oil to 1 oz (28 g) of natural, unscented cream and stir gently.

Now that we've explored these personalized tailored aromatherapy methods, let's discuss how aromatherapy can provide emotional support.

Discover six of the most effective essential oils for depression.

  • Essential Oils for Uplifting your Spirits If you seek to foster feelings of optimism and lightheartedness, or to counter low energy and inertia, essential oils can come to your aid. My top picks for this purpose are Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) and Orange (Citrus sinensis).

  • Essential Oils for Centering your Mind For those times when you feel mentally overwhelmed and cannot seem to stay on top of things, essential oils can help center your mind. They offer a sense of unity within oneself, effectively countering constant, cyclical worries and overthinking. My personal favorites for this are Frankincense (Boswellia carterii) and Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia).

  • Essential Oils for Grounding your Emotions Feeling ungrounded often equates to feeling disconnected from oneself, feeling scattered, and unable to settle due to excessive distractions. This is where essential oils can help. They can help you connect with your surroundings, emulating the grounded feeling you experience when spending time in nature. Two essential oils I recommend for this are Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) and Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanoides).

With these options at your disposal, you can select a few of your favorite essential oils for depression and incorporate them into an aromatherapy method that resonates with you.

This post has introduced you to six of the best essential oils for depression, but the realm of essential oils is vast, and there are many more that can be explored.

Particularly, floral essential oils are a personal favorite. Known as "heart notes" in the aromatherapy world, these oils are revered for their ability to soothe emotions. Essential oils like Geranium, Lavender, and Jasmine can provide reassurance and foster a sense of security.


As we continue to explore the potent potential of essential oils,

it becomes clear that the benefits of these natural resources extend beyond the realm of relieving depression. Essential oils have an impressive capacity to alleviate anxiety, a common condition that many of us face in today's fast-paced world.

To support both your personal wellness journey and your ability to help others, we have a special invitation for you. Register for our comprehensive course, "Natural Anxiety Relief with Essential Oils". In this course, you will familiarize yourself with three specific chemical components found in essential oils that are known to soothe the nervous system, alleviate anxiety, and even provide pain relief.

Not only will you gain a deep understanding of these powerful natural agents, but you'll also acquire the knowledge to craft safe and effective remedies to address the symptoms of anxiety. This holistic approach will enable you to harness the power of essential oils for anxiety relief, helping you to cultivate a more balanced, tranquil life.

Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of essential oils and their potential for natural anxiety relief. Empower yourself and others by registering for the "Natural Anxiety Relief with Essential Oils" course today. Discover the transformative power of nature's aromatic gifts, and let your journey to wellness begin.

Aromatherapy In Your Inbox

Our weekly newsletter in is known for being the best in industry. Sign up today for weekly aromatherapy news, content, recipes & more! Your data will always remain private.