Aromatherapy is a holistic treatment that uses the healing properties of essential oils to improve physical and emotional health. This ancient practice is backed by scientific research.
The Egyptians used aromatic plants for religious ceremonies and as perfumery long before distillation and the modern science of medicine existed. Monks in European monasteries played a key role in preserving herbal knowledge and traditions.
What are essential oils?
Essential oils are natural extracts from the roots, seeds, leaves, or blossoms of certain plants. They contain the plant’s characteristic fragrance and have a wide range of health benefits, according to aromatherapists. They can be inhaled, added to a carrier oil for direct skin application, or used as household cleaners and sanitizers.
Different types of essential oils have specific chemical properties that influence how they smell and their effect on the body, according to experts. They can also interact with some drugs, so it’s important to use them under the guidance of a trained aromatherapist.
Some of the most common uses for essential oils include promoting healthy sleep, relieving headaches, and fighting bacteria. Some test-tube studies have shown that some essential oils can kill cancer cells and reduce anxiety and depression. But further research is needed to confirm these results in humans. In addition, some people may have allergies to specific oils. So it’s important to use them with caution and always dilute them properly.
How do essential oils work?
The oils contain chemicals that give them their fragrant smell, and researchers believe they stimulate parts of your brain that control emotions and memory. When inhaled, the oil molecules may also act as natural sedatives.
Aromatherapy is not a proven treatment for most health problems, and it’s important to use high-quality oils from reputable suppliers. A registered aromatherapist can guide you in choosing an essential oil and applying it safely.
It’s important to remember that these oils are highly concentrated and can cause irritation when applied directly to the skin. They must be diluted before they’re used topically. You can mix them with a carrier oil or dispersant like jojoba oil to make a body spritzer or massage oil, or add them to your bath.
Some research suggests that certain essential oils may have antimicrobial properties. But test-tube studies don’t always reflect how a particular oil may act in the human body. So you’ll want to be careful about using any of these oils if you take antibiotics or have a chronic health condition that affects your skin’s sensitivity.
How do I use essential oils?
There are many ways to use essential oils, including inhalation. Using the scent of an oil stimulates the olfactory system, which is the part of the brain connected to smell. This can help to relax and calm the mind, as well as energise and boost mood.
It is important to note that essential oils are very powerful and should only be used in a properly diluted form. This can be done by adding the oil to a carrier oil, such as coconut or olive, before applying it to the skin. Using undiluted essential oils can lead to irritation and skin sensitivities.
If you are unsure what to do, speak to a trained aromatherapist for guidance and advice. It is also advisable to do a patch test before starting use, as the reaction to oils can vary between people. Also, check with your doctor before you start if you have any conditions or are taking any medication.
What conditions are treated with aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy uses the fragrance of pure essential oils to help heal and balance the mind, body, and soul. These oils can be inhaled through steam or by applying them directly to the skin. People also use them in massages or in baths.
When you inhale the aromas from these oils, your olfactory nerves send signals to the brain that influence your mood and other bodily functions. For example, the scent of lavender may calm anxiety and lower activation of the fight-or-flight response.
Some studies show that aromatherapy can help with some cancer-related symptoms, such as pain, nausea, and fatigue. But more research is needed to confirm these benefits. Talk to your healthcare provider before trying this therapy. They can help you find the best oil for you and determine how to use it safely.
