Aromatherapy uses fragrant oils to improve mood, sleep and digestion. Essential oils are extracted from plants using distillation and cold pressing methods.
Studies examining clinical aromatherapy need to ensure that the oil is used in the correct way and that the results are properly measured. Researchers should also use validated scales and questionnaires to measure patient outcomes.
Essential oils
Essential oils are a concentrated liquid that captures the distinctive fragrance of a plant. They can be inhaled directly or added to a carrier oil for topical application on the skin. They can also be added to household products to help clean and sanitize.
These oils stimulate the olfactory nerves in the nose and send messages through the nervous system to the brain. They may help reduce anxiety, depression and stress. They can calm the mind and encourage sleep, soothe headaches and ease menstrual cramps. They can also help treat psoriasis, eczema, acne and dandruff.
It is important to note that ingesting essential oils can have adverse effects, such as nausea and stomach upset. Additionally, there is limited research to support the effectiveness of essential oils and many of them have been shown to have potential interactions with pharmaceutical drugs. It is always best to prioritize safety, and consult your healthcare professional for personalized advice and recommendations.
Diffusers
An aroma diffuser is the perfect tool to create a calming environment with a few drops of essential oil. You can add a relaxing lavender oil to help you sleep or tea tree oil for its natural antibacterial properties. Diffusers can also boost your immune system and help with seasonal allergies by adding oils like eucalyptus, pine or clary sage.
Some diffusers use heat to disperse the oil while others use an ultrasonic transducer to vaporize a water/oil mixture. This creates a lighter mist that is more delicate and preserves the therapeutic qualities of the oils.
Look for a diffuser that has easy-to-use controls, adjustable mist levels and a sleek design that matches your style—whether it’s minimalist or hygge. And be sure to check the safety information on your oil of choice, especially for children and pets. Some oils can be toxic if they’re ingested or inhaled. Those with strong scents may irritate sensitive lungs, so always test out a few drops in small areas first.
Massages
During massages, the skin, muscles, tendons and ligaments are kneaded, rubbed or tapped with soothing pressure. Aromatherapy is added to create a pleasant experience for the client and can help relieve stress, pain, tension and anxiety. Massage is being studied in some cancer patients to see if it can reduce nausea and vomiting caused by treatment.
Some types of massage include effleurage, in which the hands slide across the surface of the skin and are stroking, and deep tissue massage, in which deeper layers of muscle are targeted with more force. Trigger point massage is also available, focusing on tense areas in the muscles that can cause pain in other parts of the body.
Most massages are performed while the client is fully dressed. However, some people prefer to wear a bathing suit. If you choose to do this, your therapist will provide privacy to change. Massage is an intimate procedure, so it is important to have trust and respect between you and your therapist.
Skin care
The concept of aromatherapy is often used as a marketing strategy to promote a variety of cosmetics and scented products, but the amount of natural aromatic extracts in these products is often very low and overpowered by added synthetic aromachemicals. However, there are a number of skincare lines that use natural essential oils in their purest form to enhance both relaxation and skin care.
During an aromatherapy facial, your aesthetician will use a mix of necessary oils based on your specific skin type and needs. This personalized approach to skincare is what makes aromatherapy so effective, as each oil has unique properties.
Lavender reduces stress and calms irritated skin, while eucalyptus stimulates circulation and revitalizes dull skin. Other helpful essential oils include tea tree, which is naturally antibacterial, and ylang ylang, which hydrates and brightens the complexion. Regular aromatherapy facials can also help boost the immune system, promoting optimal wellness from the inside out.
