Essential Oils And Aromatherapy: Could They Work For Bipolar Disorder?
If you’re living with bipolar disorder you may be eager to find easy-to-use methods for smoothing out your intense high and low moods. Plant essential oils might be an option. They appeal to many people due to their simplicity, natural origins, and pleasant scents.
But are essential oils effective, or are they simply another misguided health fad? Can essential oils and aromatherapy really help with bipolar disorder?
Though they can’t take the place of psychotherapy from a qualified mental health professional, there’s evidence that certain essential oils may be useful for managing common symptoms of bipolar disorder. Aromatherapy may help improve your mood, relieve anxiety, or help you fall asleep, for example.
This article explores how this type of treatment might work and how you might use it to help manage bipolar disorder.
What are essential oils?
An essential oil is a substance containing a high concentration of aromatic compounds derived from plants. Aromatic compounds are volatile, meaning they tend to easily vaporize into gases at room temperature. These substances are what give many plants their pleasing smells, like the sweetness of flowers or the spicy scents of herbs.
Aromatic chemicals are extracted from plants using a variety of methods, including distillation, solvents, or physical pressure. By separating these compounds from the plants that make them, manufacturers can concentrate them at much higher levels. This means that a few drops of essential oil can have a stronger fragrance than an entire plant.
It’s worth noting that essential oils are not “essential” in the sense of being necessary for life or health like the essential amino acids. The name comes from the fact that these oils contain the “essence” of a particular plant’s scent.
Why use aromatherapy and essential oils?
Those who find aromatherapy helpful for managing psychological conditions often adopt this method because it’s fairly simple and can be self-administered easily. Essential oils are widely available, with no need for a prescription, and using them requires little equipment or specialized knowledge.
You can easily test many different scents and figure out which ones have the most beneficial effect on your mood and stress levels. And since you don’t need large quantities of essential oils to feel their effects, you can often use them on the go. This can be helpful if you find yourself in urgent need of a way to soothe your mind.
Another potential advantage of aromatherapy is that, if used correctly, it comes without the side effects that some individuals experience from medications for bipolar disorder. There’s little risk of essential oils causing harmful interactions with other pharmaceutical drugs. Though there are some safety precautions to follow (see below), aromatherapy is often a safe way to supplement other forms of clinical treatment for bipolar disorder.
What does the science say about essential oils and bipolar disorder?
Essential oils have not yet been widely investigated as treatments for bipolar disorder specifically. A systematic review of complementary treatments for this condition found no published studies examining the use of aromatherapy for this condition. However, there have been trials that have shown effects on common symptoms experienced by individuals who are diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
For example, a 2021 research review concluded that several types of essential oils showed promise in relieving anxiety or depression. This suggests that they might be useful for reducing the intensity of depressive or anxious episodes, which are often experienced by those diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
Some essential oils might also be able to help lower stress, which can be a trigger for manic phases of bipolar disorder. A 2013 experiment found that nurses who used an aromatherapy treatment during their workday showed significant reductions in stress symptoms.
Individuals with bipolar disorder often experience difficulty sleeping during both manic and depressive episodes. This may contribute to other health effects, including negative moods and cognitive difficulties. A review published in 2014 concluded that inhaled essential oils showed positive effects on sleep quality.
Studies like these suggest that people experiencing unwanted effects of bipolar disorder may be able to find some relief by using essential oils for their calming and rest-promoting properties. More research is necessary before these can be considered clinically verified treatments. In the meantime, there’s little risk in testing them out and seeing if they improve your quality of life.
Which essential oils might help with bipolar disorder?
There are several essential oils on the market. If you’re interested in seeing whether essential oils can help you manage your bipolar disorder, you may be unsure where to start. The following plant extracts may decrease some common symptoms of bipolar disorder:
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Lavender essential oil may be the most extensively studied aromatherapy treatment, and many people find its sweet fragrance soothing. Many studies suggest that it might help reduce depression and help with related symptoms such as lack of sleep.
Bergamot orange (Citrus bergamia)
Derived from a sour citrus fruit a little bit like lime, bergamot orange oil is often used to promote calm and reduce feelings of worry. You may be familiar with its odor and flavor if you drink Earl Gray tea. Some research indicates that inhaling this tangy scent can relieve anxiety and lower the levels of stress hormones like cortisol in the human body.
Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)
This common kitchen herb has a woodsy, piney scent that many consider invigorating. In some randomized trials, the smell of rosemary has shown positive effects on alertness, memory, and cognitive performance. If your bipolar disorder symptoms include mental fatigue or difficulty thinking clearly, you might find that aromatherapy with rosemary essential oil can help.
Sandalwood (Santalum)
Long used in traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine, as well as in incense for religious practices, sandalwood has a rich, sweet scent that’s often described as calming and uplifting. It may help improve your mood, and at least one randomized, controlled trial found that it could relieve anxiety.
Ylang-ylang (Cananga odorata)
There’s some evidence that the sweet, earthy, fruity smell of ylang-ylang can promote feelings of tranquility and well-being. Note that the linked study found that this scent appeared to slow down the speed of cognitive processing, which suggests that it’s not a great choice for situations where you need to stay sharp. But if you’re having trouble quieting racing thoughts, this essential oil might help you calm down.
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)
You may already know that some people swear by chamomile tea as a way to calm their nerves and promote sleep. But did you know that some studies have also found antidepressant effects from chamomile essential oil? This light herbal scent might help you feel less down during depressive phases.
How to use essential oils safely
Though essential oils lack many of the dramatic side effects of other substances used to treat bipolar disorder, they aren’t totally risk-free. For example, some can be poisonous if taken internally. It’s often best to avoid swallowing essential oils or applying them to mucous membranes, and most companies suggest keeping them away from curious children.
Some people like to apply essential oils to their skin, but this can cause skin irritation in certain individuals or with some types of oils. Citrus-based essential oils, in particular, can dramatically increase your risk of sunburn. It may be best to ask your doctor about each oil and be cautious about using them outdoors.
You might want to dilute any essential oils you’re using topically to 2% concentration or lower, using a neutral “carrier oil” like coconut oil. And since sensitivity can vary from person to person, it’s probably best to test any essential oil on a small patch of skin before applying it more widely.
The safest way to use essential oils may be through aromatherapy, inhaling their odors without putting them directly on or in your body. You can use a scent diffuser or simply dab a drop or two on a tissue and sniff it. Keep in mind that some people can still experience sinus irritation from strong scents like cinnamon or lemongrass. Aromatherapy may be safest in a well-ventilated space.
Aromatherapy, psychotherapy, and bipolar disorder
Many individuals with bipolar disorder have reported positive effects from aromatherapy with essential oils online. Yet this practice doesn’t have the robust evidence base of cognitive-behavioral therapy and other psychotherapeutic or medication-based treatments. It may be best to use aromatherapy to support and complement your work with a trained therapist.
If you appreciate the convenience and availability of essential oils, you may prefer online psychotherapy over traditional face-to-face appointments. Talking with a mental health professional online allows you to participate in sessions from your own home. You can even make use of your preferred aromatherapy treatments during chats with your therapist, potentially easing the stress of talking about challenging thoughts and emotions.
Long-term studies of online cognitive-behavioral therapy have found that it works just as well as face-to-face treatment. Whether in randomized trials or routine clinical practice, it’s been found to substantially reduce symptoms of a wide variety of mental health conditions. Many people also find it easier to consistently follow treatment recommendations when working with therapists online.
Takeaway
When used in conjunction with evidence-based treatments, aromatherapy with essential oils might make bipolar disorder easier to manage. Get started with a licensed therapist by contacting BetterHelp; we’ll match you with a professional based on your needs and preferences, often in less than 48 hours.
What vitamins are good for bipolar people?
While there is no specific vitamin or combination of vitamins that serves as a cure for bipolar disorder, maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet is important for overall health and well-being. Certain dietary supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, play a role in supporting brain function and reducing inflammation, and they may have benefits that contribute to mood regulation. Consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or adding supplements.
How can I ease bipolar symptoms?
Managing bipolar disorder often requires a comprehensive approach that includes medication, psychotherapy, lifestyle adjustments, and support from healthcare professionals. Work closely with your healthcare team to develop a personalized treatment plan. Here are some general strategies that may help ease bipolar symptoms:
- Medication Adherence: Take prescribed medications consistently and as directed by your healthcare provider may help to balance hormones or neurotransmitters. Medication may help to lessen the effects of extreme mood swings.
- Psychotherapy: Engage in psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Psychotherapy can help you understand and manage your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
- Create a Routine: Establish and maintain a regular daily routine. Consistent sleep patterns, mealtimes, and daily activities can contribute to stability and help regulate your circadian rhythm.
- Manage Stress: Practice stress-reduction techniques, such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga. Managing and reducing stress may be important for preventing mood episodes.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Adopt a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep. Physical activity has been shown to positively impact mood in various ways.
- Limit Substance Use: Avoid or limit the use of substances such as alcohol and recreational drugs, as they can interfere with medication effectiveness and contribute to mood instability.
Managing bipolar disorder is an ongoing process, and what works for one person may not work for another. Collaborate with your healthcare team to make adjustments to your treatment plan as needed. If you're experiencing significant distress or challenges, seek professional help promptly.
How can I help myself with bipolar disorder?
If you have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, there are several strategies you can implement to help manage your symptoms and improve your overall well-being. It may be important to work closely with your healthcare team to develop a personalized treatment plan. Here are some self-help strategies:
- Medication Adherence: Take prescribed medications consistently and as directed by your healthcare provider. If you have concerns about your medication or experience side effects, discuss them with your provider rather than making changes on your own.
- Psychoeducation: Learn more about bipolar disorder. Understanding the condition, its symptoms, and triggers can empower you to manage it more effectively. Psychoeducation may also include learning about the medications you are prescribed.
- Therapy: Engage in psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), or psychoeducation groups. Therapy can provide coping skills, help with mood regulation, and support your overall well-being.
- Lifestyle Management: Adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep. These factors contribute to overall well-being and may help stabilize mood.
- Routine: Establish and maintain a regular daily routine. Consistency in activities, sleep patterns, and meals can contribute to mood stability and help regulate your circadian rhythm.
- Stress Management: Practice stress-reduction techniques, such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga. Managing stress is crucial for preventing mood episodes.
- Limit Substance Use: Avoid or limit the use of substances such as alcohol and recreational drugs, as they can interfere with medication effectiveness and contribute to mood instability.
What is a natural herb for bipolar disorder?
While some people may explore complementary and alternative treatments, it's crucial to approach them with caution, especially when it comes to mental health conditions like bipolar disorder. Natural herbs and supplements are not a substitute for evidence-based medical treatments, and their effectiveness and safety can vary. Before considering any herbal remedies, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure they are safe and won't interact negatively with prescribed medications.
What fruit is good for people with bipolar disorder?
Maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet is important for overall well-being, but there isn't a specific fruit or food that is universally recommended solely for individuals with bipolar disorder. A healthy diet, rich in a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, may help with weight loss and is generally beneficial for everyone, including those managing bipolar disorder.
How can I treat bipolar disorder without medication?
Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition or illness that often requires a comprehensive treatment approach that includes medical care. While some people may explore non-medication strategies, it may be important to note that evidence-based medications are often a key component of managing bipolar disorder. Consult with a healthcare professional before making decisions about your treatment plan. That said, here are some non-medication strategies that may be considered as a natural approach to treating bipolar disorder, but their effectiveness varies among individuals:
- Psychotherapy: Engaging in psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), or interpersonal therapy may be beneficial. Therapy can help give individuals the ability to develop coping strategies, improve mood regulation, and enhance problem-solving skills. Therapy also may help individuals manage mental disorders such as anxiety disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which may co-occur with bipolar disorder.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep. These lifestyle factors can positively impact mood and overall well-being.
- Stress Management: Practice stress-reduction techniques, such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga. Managing stress is crucial for preventing mood episodes and can help to manage anxiety and depression.
- Sleep Hygiene: Prioritize good sleep hygiene by maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine. Sleep disturbances can contribute to mood instability.
- Routine: Establish and maintain a regular daily routine. Consistency in activities, sleep patterns, and meals can contribute to mood stability and help regulate circadian rhythms.
While it is possible to treat bipolar disorder without medication, it is important to do so with support from a mental health professional. Individuals with untreated bipolar disorder may experience suicidal thoughts at a higher rate when compared with those who are undergoing treatment.
If you or a loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts, reach out for help immediately. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can be reached at 988 and is available 24/7.
Is there a permanent cure for bipolar disorder?
Currently, there is no known permanent cure for bipolar disorder. Like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder is a chronic mental health condition, however, with appropriate treatment and management, many individuals with bipolar disorder can lead fulfilling and stable lives. The primary treatments for bipolar disorder typically include a combination of medications, psychotherapy, and lifestyle adjustments. Medications such as mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and sometimes antidepressants are often prescribed to help stabilize mood and manage symptoms.
Does bipolar disorder get worse with age?
Bipolar disorder is a chronic condition, and its course can vary among individuals. The severity and frequency of mood episodes may change over time, but it's not necessarily accurate to say that bipolar disorder universally gets worse with age. Some individuals may experience periods of stability, while others may continue to have recurrent episodes.
How do people with bipolar disorder cope?
People with bipolar disorder employ a variety of strategies to manage their symptoms and promote overall well-being. Effective management often involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, lifestyle adjustments, and support from healthcare providers, friends, and family. Here are some common strategies individuals with bipolar disorder may use to manage their symptoms:
- Medication Adherence: Taking prescribed medications consistently is crucial for stabilizing mood and preventing the recurrence of mood episodes. Individuals work closely with their healthcare providers to find the most effective medications with the fewest side effects.
- Psychotherapy: Engaging in psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), or interpersonal therapy, provides individuals with coping skills, strategies for mood regulation, and support in managing challenges.
- Lifestyle Management: Adopting a healthy lifestyle is important. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep contribute to overall well-being and can help manage mood symptoms.
- Routine and Structure: Establishing and maintaining a regular daily routine provides stability and helps regulate circadian rhythms, which can be disrupted in individuals with bipolar disorder.
- Stress Reduction: Learning and practicing stress-reduction techniques, such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga, can be beneficial in managing stress, a potential trigger for mood episodes.
Does a person with bipolar disorder know they are bipolar?
In many cases, individuals with bipolar disorder are aware of their diagnosis, especially if they have sought professional help and received a formal evaluation. However, the level of awareness can vary among individuals. Here are some scenarios that illustrate different levels of awareness:
- Self-Recognition: Some individuals may recognize and acknowledge their symptoms and experiences, seeking help because they suspect or understand that they may have bipolar disorder. They may notice patterns of mood swings, energy levels, and changes in behavior.
- Professional Diagnosis: Others may not be aware of their condition until they seek help from mental health professionals. A healthcare provider, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, can conduct an assessment and provide a formal diagnosis based on the individual's symptoms and history.
- Denial or Lack of Insight: In some cases, individuals with bipolar disorder may experience a lack of insight into their condition, a symptom known as anosognosia. This may lead to denial or a lack of awareness about the impact of their behaviors and mood swings on themselves and others.
- Delayed Recognition: Bipolar disorder can sometimes be misdiagnosed or unrecognized for years, leading to delayed awareness. This may occur if symptoms are initially attributed to other conditions or if the individual does not seek professional help.
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