June 9, 2024
Depression is difficult to treat with available drugs because individual responses to these drugs vary so widely. Commercially available antidepressants have limitations related to the slow onset of action and low response rate. In addition, they also have adverse side effects, such as abnormal bleeding, indigestion, and even sexual dysfunction. The distressing side effects of antidepressants have inspired the exploration of other effective alternative treatments with fewer side effects. Recently, researchers have hypothesized that factors beyond neurotransmitters (like serotonin) contribute to depression, such as neuroinflammation and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. This has led researchers to increase their efforts to find a natural solution for depressive-like symptoms.
The use of patchouli oil as aromatherapy is very common, owing to its unique fragrance from patchouli alcohol and other volatile compounds. The fragrance may ease stress, reduce anxiety, and boost mood. A recent preclinical study found that inhaling patchouli essential oil relieves depressive-like behaviors by increasing dopamine levels. This suggests that inhaling patchouli oil may be a simple and noninvasive way to promote a healthy mood.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC914