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40 m a s s a g e & b o d y wo r k j a n u a r y/ fe b r u a r y 2 0 2 3 For depression, combine five drops of frankincense (Boswellia sacra), eight drops of lemon (Citrus limon), and one drop of jasmine ( Jasminum grandiflorum). As real jasmine is expensive, you can substitute ylang ylang or clary sage (Salvia sclarea) if you prefer. All three of these essential oils demonstrate notable antidepressant activity in research. Lemon is particularly interesting because it increases noradrenaline, which is stimulating. With depression, people often feel low or stuck, so the inclusion of a noradrenalin stimulant improves energy and boosts mental clarity. Older Adults and Dementia Research links several essential oils to improved cognitive function and reduced agitation in older adults with dementia. 2 Regarding improved cognitive function, scientists believe that essential oils high in hydrocarbon monoterpenes (very light molecules) are especially effective because they easily penetrate the skin or the mucus membrane of the respiratory tract, enter systemic circulation, and cross the blood-brain barrier. 3 Create a diffuser synergy with nine drops of grapefruit (Citrus × paradisi) and three drops of silver fir (Abies alba). Alternatively, combine eight drops of sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) with four drops of cypress (Cupressus sempervirens). Another option is eight drops of lemon and one drop of eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus). Diffuse one of these synergies in the client's living space during waking hours (not at night, as these formulas may disrupt sleep). Approximately 13 studies conducted in resident-care facilities discuss the use of aromatherapy for agitated behavioral issues related to dementia. Unfortunately, each study involved small numbers of participants. 4 However, four essential oils emerge as possible agents that decrease agitation—lavender, sweet orange, melissa (Melissa officinalis), and Atlas cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica). Try result or consequence of an action. When a therapist gives a client a massage (action), the client's mind and body respond in predictable and sometimes unpredictable ways (effects). Effects work the same way in aromatherapy. We expose our clients to essential oils (action), and they respond in predictable and sometimes unpredictable ways (effects). Here, we'll talk about selected essential oils for specific conditions. These oils are appropriate for older adults when used at a 1 percent concentration. Anxiety and Depression As people age, they live through an increasing number of significant life changes. Their parents die, their children leave home, they retire from careers, and they outlive spouses, siblings, and friends. Physical and health challenges lead to a loss of independence, fear of falling, medication side effects, and concerns about money. Researchers estimate the prevalence of anxiety symptoms in adults ages 65–86 is between 15 and 52 percent. Older adult depression in the general community ranges from 1 to 5 percent but jumps to 11.5 percent during hospitalization and 13.5 percent in those requiring ongoing care. 1 For anxiety, combine six drops of lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) with eight drops of bitter orange (Citrus × aurantium) and two drops of ylang ylang (Cananga odorata). Both lavender and bitter orange are agents that calm an overactive amygdala. We know that the amygdala is the brain's "smoke detector" and is constantly on the lookout for things that might be dangerous. So, when we feel anxiety, it primes the amygdala to be more reactive. Inhaling these amygdala- soothing oils helps reduce the hypervigilance of an overactive amygdala, thereby calming anxiety. Ylang ylang is a star-shaped yellow f lower that comes from the Philippines. It demonstrates both neurosedative and antidepressant activity. Neurosedatives sedate the central nervous system by slowing down brain activity. Hops