Aromatherapy is the art and science of utilizing naturally extracted aromatic essences from plants to balance, harmonize and promote the health of body, mind and spirit. This is a treatment using fragrance from different kinds of essential oils. Essential oils that are inhaled into the lungs are believed to offer both psychological and physical benefits; not only does the aroma of the natural essential oil stimulate the brain to trigger a reaction, but the natural constituents (naturally occurring chemicals) of the essential oil are drawn into the lungs and can also supply physical benefit.
Benefits of Aromatherapy
Emotion based benefits for:
Depression,Frustration
Grief,Hysteria
Anxiety,Insomnia
Lack of Concentration,Irritability
Fear,Poor Memory
Hopelessness,Moodiness
Panic Attacks,Nervous Tension
Sadness,Worry
Medicinal benefits for:
Bruises / Sprains / Strains
Burns (including sunburn)
Wounds and Scars
Nervousness / Tension / Stress
Motion Sickness o Fatigue
Respiratory Conditions including colds, flu, sore throat, asthma and bronchitis
Purifying the Air
Muscular aches and pains
Fungal infections such as athletes foot and nail fungus
Reduce skin inflammation
Enhance wound healing
Digestive disorders such as Constipation
Skincare benefits
Dermatitis,Stretch Marks
Eczema,Acne
Psoriasis,Mature Skin
Varicose Veins,Dry Skin
Cellulite,Wrinkles
Enhanced wound healing
Antifungal activity
Antibacterial activity
Modes of application
Hot compresses
Hot compresses can be used for migraine headaches, sinus headaches and sore muscles. Recommended oils are rosewood, peppermint and neroli. To prepare a hot compress, add a few drops of oil to a bowl of very hot water. Soak a clean cloth or bandage in the water. Wring out excess water, and place the cloth over affected area. Repeat this step as often as necessary.
Hot Bath
A hot bath with four to six drops of oil will not only help soothe skin and relieve mucus buildup in the lungs but will also relax the mind and body and relieve tension. Recommended oils are rosemary, grapefruit, and sandalwood. Hot Bath with essential oils can have profound effects on the healing of skin disorders, alleviating muscular aches and pains, enhancing respiratory functions, reducing levels of stress, as well as increasing and supporting blood and lymph circulation.
Aromatherapy Massage
An aromatherapy massage relieves tension and stress in the body. Recommended oils for a body massage are rosemary, basil, cedar wood, lemon and sandalwood.
Steam Inhalation
Steam inhalation helps to clear the lungs and sinuses of congestion and infection. This method will affect the respiratory and blood supply immediately. Bring 2 cups of water to boil, reduce heat and let water cool for 5-10 minutes. Add 2-5 drops of essential oil (or a combination of 2-3 essential oils). Inhale vapors for 5-10 minutes. You can also place a towel over your head to increase concentration. Inhalations can be used 2-3 times a day in treatment of specific respiratory disorders. Recommended oils for steam inhalation are grapefruit, cinnamon, eucalyptus and tea tree oil.
Note: If you are using an essential oil for the first time, be sure to do a skin patch test, to avoid any allergic reaction. To test, put a drop of oil on a cotton ball and apply it to the inside of the arm, the back of your wrist or under the arm. Place a band aid over the patch and leave for 24 hours. If there is a reaction, such as itching or redness, do not continue to use.