Aromatherapy is the use of aromatic substances for holistic healing and can be used as Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM). Essential oils are taken from a plant's aroma-producing oils such as leaves, stalks, bark, rind, or roots. Plants, flowers, herbs, roots and trees grown all over the world are known to have powerful effects on improving physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. After extracting the oils, they are mixed with another substance called a “carrier” (such as oil, alcohol, or lotion) and then put on the skin, sprayed in the air, or inhaled. Essential oils are very strong, and it is recommended that they are combined with a carrier oil like almond, jojoba or coconut oil, before being applied directly to the skin.
It is believed that the fragrances in the oils stimulate nerves in the nose which send impulses to the part of the brain that controls memory and emotion. Depending on the type of oil, the result on the body may be calming or stimulating.
Oils are also thought to interact with the body's hormones and enzymes causing changes in blood pressure, pulse, and other body functions. Another theory suggests that the fragrance of certain oils may stimulate the body to produce pain-fighting substances.
You may have already been exposed to aromatherapy in various therapeutic practices, including massage centers, yoga studios, spas, counseling and chiropractic offices. As popularity has grown, grocery store have begun carrying products like aromatherapy candles, bath products, and essential oils.
Some of the reported health benefits of aromatherapy include:
- The ability to reduce anxiety and ease depression
- Boost energy levels
- Speed up the healing process
- Eliminate headaches
- Boost cognitive performance
- Induce sleep
- Strengthen the immune system
- Reduce pain
- Improve digestion
- Increase circulation
Stress Relief:
One of the most popular uses of aromatherapy is for stress relief. The aromas from many different essential oils are known to relax and soothe your mind while eliminating anxiety. Some of the best essential oils for stress relief are lemon oil, lavender, bergamot, peppermint, vetiver, and ylang ylang. Certain studies have also shown that lemon oil can also improve mood and reduce outbursts of anger.
Mood Boosting:
Aromatherapy can be used to eliminate feelings of sadness and depression. This can also be used in conjunction with psychological help or counseling. The best essential oils to use for reducing sadness and depression are orange, peppermint, chamomile, lavender, and jasmine.
Memory:
Aromatherapy has been known to boost memory capacity, no matter your age! Sage oil is the most commonly recommended oil for a memory-enhancing effect. Also, the aroma of peppermint has been shown to increase alertness and improve focus.
Healing and Recovery:
The anti-microbial properties of certain essential oils also keep the body protected. Some of the most popular essential oils for speeding up the healing process of the body include lavender, calendula, rosehip, and buckthorn essential oils. A number of those same oils do more than heal wounds; they can also reduce the severity and discomfort from skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema.
Headaches:
Everyone gets headaches from time to time. Some of the best essential oils that have been connected to reducing headaches are peppermint, eucalyptus, sandalwood, and rosemary essential oils. You can also mix these with a carrier oil and spread onto your skin, scalp, neck, and temples. The best carrier oils for headaches include almond, avocado, coconut, apricot kernel, and sesame oils.
Immune System:
As the saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” When it comes to our immune system, it is far better to prevent conditions than treat them. If used properly, aromatherapy can give you a boost to your immune system. The anti-microbial, anti-fungal and antibacterial effects can protect you from any number of illnesses and infections that could damage your system. Some of the most effective essential oils that boost your immune system include oregano, frankincense, lemon, peppermint, cinnamon, and eucalyptus essential oils. If you are congested try peppermint, clove, juniper or tea tree oils. Tea tree is also known to have anti-fungal and anti-bacterial effects.
Pain Relief:
Analgesics help with pain relief and are one of the most useful applications of aromatherapy. The top essential oils include lavender, chamomile, clary sage, juniper, eucalyptus, rosemary, and peppermint essential oils. Sore muscles can be treated with eucalyptus, frankincense, lemongrass or sandalwood.
Whatever your condition, and whatever essential oils you choose to use, always consult your doctor before embarking on a new treatment plan. Also, be sure to only acquire essential oils from approved sources and don’t attempt to mix and use oils unless you have been trained as a professional aroma therapist.
Next time you are stressed or overwhelmed, try an essential oil!
Here are some helpful articles
Aromatherapy: What you need to know http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/10884.php
Evidence-Based Aromatherapy: Stress Relief And Much More http://www.greenmedinfo.com/blog/evidence-based-aromatherapy-stress-relief-and-much-more
Aromatherapy for Stress: Research and Techniques
https://www.verywell.com/aromatherapy-for-stress-research-and-techniques-3144598
Recipes and additional information https://www.auracacia.com/
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health