Aromatherapy is a form of natural medicine that uses fragrances to soothe or calm people. It can help people with a variety of conditions, such as stress and insomnia. It can also help treat pain, such as rheumatoid arthritis or headaches.
Aromatherapy uses essential oils that are inhaled or diluted and applied to the skin. These oils contain chemicals that affect the brain’s olfactory receptors.
Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils
Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils — concentrated plant chemicals — to promote health and well-being. The oil is extracted by steaming or pressing various parts of a plant (flowers, bark, leaves, and fruit). It takes several pounds of the plant to make just one bottle of oil. The oils are diluted with a carrier oil, which helps the chemical to penetrate your skin and be absorbed.
It’s not clear how the oils work, but experts believe they stimulate the part of the brain that controls emotions and memory. They may also interact with hormones and enzymes in your body.
You can find these oils online and in health food stores and some regular supermarkets. It’s important to look for a reputable seller, and avoid those that use synthetic scents or additives. You should also look for a label that includes the Latin name of the plant and information on purity and other ingredients.
It’s safe
While aromatherapy has many potential benefits, it is important to understand how to use essential oils safely. Purchasing oils from a trusted source and following the guidelines for safe usage is an easy way to help your body benefit from the natural properties of the oils. It is also important to be aware of the potential side effects. Some essential oils can be toxic when ingested and can affect the function of the liver or kidneys. Therefore, it is important to keep them away from infants, children, and pets.
If you are undergoing cancer treatment, you should seek the advice of an aromatherapist who has experience with treating people with cancer. Your therapist will ask you about your health and lifestyle to choose the best oils for your needs. They will mix the oils and massage them into your skin while you relax. Some cancer clinics and hospitals offer aromatherapy sessions at no cost for their patients.
It’s not regulated by the FDA
Aromatherapy is a therapeutic use of essential oils. It can be used as a relaxation technique, to relieve stress, and to promote well-being. It can be used with a diffuser, inhaler, or other methods. Essential oils can also be added to bath salts, soaps, lotions, and scented candles.
The olfactory stimuli from inhaled aromatherapy molecules travel to the brain, where they are processed by the amygdala and the hippocampus. This is followed by an emotional response, such as fear or pleasure. The olfactory stimulus can also trigger memory recall.
The FDA does not regulate aromatherapy unless it contains medical or therapeutic claims. In these cases, the FDA will consider it a drug instead of a cosmetic. The FDA also reviews marketing claims and a company’s website to ensure that they are in compliance. Medical companies and healthcare practices should consult experienced healthcare compliance attorneys to review their marketing materials and claims. This will help them comply with federal and state regulations.
It’s not a cure
Aromatherapy uses extracts from flowers, herbs, trees and other plants to promote healing. These extracts are called essential oils and can be inhaled directly through the nose or applied to the skin with massage, lotions or bath salts. The scents of these oils stimulate the smell receptors in the nose, which send signals to the brain. These signals influence emotions and can help relieve stress and anxiety. Some studies suggest that aromatherapy may also reduce pain and nausea from chemotherapy or surgery.
While some studies support the benefits of aromatherapy, others do not. For example, an article published in the journal PLOS ONE found that there was no statistical significance for the use of aromatherapy to ease pain after hysterectomy. Although this study is not a randomized controlled trial, it was still an important step in the search for complementary therapies that could improve quality of life for cancer patients.
