 People suffering from any long term chronic painful condition also often have bouts of depression. Whether it is caused by chemical imbalances associated with the physical body, or
stems from mental stress, it affects your health in a profound way.
The simple act of preparing and savoring a herbal tea is part of the self healing process. For depression, lavender should be mixed with borage flowers in herbal preparations.3 Lemon balm and melissa oil are recommended for nervousness, depression, insomnia, and nervous headaches. The volatile oils in the plant (particularly citronellal) have a sedative effect even in minute concentrations. 4 Oatstraw tea :The whole plant,( oats) in medicinal doses provides a range of therapeutic and nutritional substances that feed a debilitated nervous system, making this a valuable remedy for exhaustion, convalescence, and depression.4
St. John's Wort may be the best known herbal answer for depression. Thanks to phytochemicals such as hyperforin and hypericin St. John's wort helps brighten the moods of people with mild to moderate depression and anxiety. It also helps people out of the winter doldrums, a syndrom called seasonal affective disorder (SAD), although it is less effective against the up-and-down mood swings of bipolar depression. St. John's can be used in several ways, in capsules, tea, or tincture.5
Aromatherapy is a useful tool in conjunction with other therapies to help produce more positive feelings. The sense of smell is the only sense that goes directly to the limbic system, the center of memory and emotions. To support emotional healing, touch in the form of massage can greatly enhance recovery. For depression, choose stimulant and tonic essential oils, such as Jasmine and angelica, to be used at least three times a week in baths and foot massages. 2Jasmine oil is a nerve sedative, and at the same time greatly uplifting, anti-depressant, and produces a feeling of optimism.1The scent of Roses is a time honored anti-depressant and creates a feeling of well being and mild euphoria.
As a nerve sedative Bergamot is valuable for depression and states of anxiety..In homeopathic practice Black Pepper is used for difficulty in concentrating, heavy headache, and a sad, apprehensive state of mind.1Clary Sage oil creates a sense of euphoria, and restores courage and confidence. Geranium has a powerful, leafy-rose aroma that is a relaxant, calming nerves and uplifting the spirits. Ylang-Ylang oil elevates the spirit and consoles the heart.
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Depression References 
