Purpose]Providing theoretical basis for using aromatherapy as an adjuvant therapy to treat postpartum depression. [Method]The research summarizes the etiological factors, pathogenesis of postpartum depression and il ustrates the basis of treatment for aromatherapy in the perspectives of traditional Chinese medicine and western medicine. [Result]It confirms the theoretical basis for using aromatherapy as adjuvant therapy to treat postpartum depression. [Conclusion] As an adjuvant therapy, aromatherapy could effectively al eviate the suffering of patients and it would have a bright future.