Aromatherapy uses essential oils extracted from plants to treat a range of health conditions. It is a holistic form of medicine and has been around for millennia.
French chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse first coined the term “aromatherapy” in 1935 after treating burns on his hands with lavender oil.
Benefits
There are many benefits of aromatherapy that can help with a variety of physical and mental health issues. Some of these include reducing stress, promoting relaxation, boosting energy levels, healing wounds and helping with sleep issues.
Essential oils can be used in many ways, including inhalation or as a skin application. A therapist will use a mixture of different oils that they feel will help with your symptoms.
They will then massage these into your body. They will ask questions about your health and medical history before they select the best oils to use for you.
Essential oils have a smell that activates the smell receptors in your nose, which send messages to your brain’s limbic system. This part of the brain affects your emotions, memory and learning.
Methods
Aromatherapy is a method of using essential oils to improve your mood, mental state or health. It can be diffused into the air, dissolved in a bath or applied during a massage.
When you go to an aromatherapy session, the practitioner will ask you about your symptoms and preferences. Then, the practitioner will choose a blend of essential oils that is right for you.
During an aromatherapy massage, the practitioner will apply diluted essential oils to your skin as part of the massage process. They may also give you a steam inhalation.
Some professionals will also provide treatment that involves taking essential oils by mouth, but this is rare and requires a doctor’s prescription.
Some essential oils can be toxic if ingested and some could irritate your skin. Always dilute them in a base massage oil. And check with the Victorian Poisons Information Centre for more safety tips.
Ingredients
Aromatherapy is a holistic form of healing that uses the scents of essential oils, which are extracts from plant parts (flowers, herbs, and trees). You breathe the essential oil through your nose or use it on your skin.
Depending on what it is used for, essential oils can be antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and even mood-boosting. Some aromatherapy oils have been shown to relieve depression, stress and anxiety, and improve sleep.
Some of these oils have photosensitive properties, so you should always dilute them before applying them to your skin — especially when you’re in the sun. Those with menthol, such as peppermint, may also be irritating to sensitive skin.
If you’re interested in trying aromatherapy, talk with your doctor or a trained aromatherapist about how to safely use the oils you choose. They can teach you about the chemicals in each one and help you apply it properly.
Safety
Aromatherapy is a safe and effective form of self-care that can improve your quality of life. But it is important to take a few safety measures when using essential oils.
For instance, some essential oils can be dangerous when ingested or applied directly to the skin. They can also trigger or worsen symptoms of certain medical conditions.
To avoid these dangers, always use diluted oils and consult with your doctor before using essential oils if you have any medical issues or are pregnant.
It is also important to check whether a specific oil is safe to use around infants, children or pets. Some oils can be toxic to these animals, and some may even kill them.
To be safe, always purchase a high-quality essential oil from a reputable source. Be sure to look at the label to ensure that the oil is pure and has no added ingredients.
