Aromatherapy is a term that most people associate with the use of essential oils to enhance their health and wellness. It is a popular practice in many cultures around the world, but it has not yet been scientifically proven as an effective means for improving overall health and well-being. Aromatherapists will often make claims about how essential oils can be used to treat various illnesses like arthritis and use these as best essential oils for arthritis pain or improve one’s mood, but these are just theories at this point.
Aromatherapy may provide some benefits such as reducing stress levels, relieving pain, and helping with symptoms of depression or anxiety, but there hasn’t been any conclusive evidence that aromatherapy provides any long-term healing benefits. Some experts have argued that the use of essential oils may do more harm than good, especially if they’re not used properly. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the potential benefits and risks of using essential oils for aromatherapy.
What is aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is the practice of using essential oils to improve one’s health and well-being. Essential oils are concentrated extracts from plants, flowers, and fruit peels that contain natural chemicals that can be beneficial for our health. When these oils are inhaled, they travel through our nose and are absorbed into our bloodstream, where they can interact with our body’s natural systems to promote healing. Learning about aromatherapy and other self-care practices with guidance from Zen and Stone on spiritual healing can significantly improve your life quality and overall mindset. Even with a simples change of routine and aromatherapy practice, like using a diffuser with essential oils in your living space, you can bring about great change.
Origine of aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine that uses essential oils to improve a person’s health. The term “aromatherapy” was first coined by French chemist and perfumer Rene-Maurice Gattefosse in 1937. Aromatherapy has been used for centuries, with the use of essential oils being documented in ancient Egyptian texts.
The essential oils used in aromatherapy are derived from plants, flowers, and fruits. Each essential oil has its unique smell and benefits. Aromatherapy is said to be helpful for a wide variety of conditions, including anxiety, depression, stress, insomnia, and headaches.
How does aromatherapy work?
Aromatherapy works by stimulating the nose’s olfactory receptors. These receptors send signals to the limbic system, which is the part of the brain that controls emotions. The limbic system then affects the body’s nervous system and hormone levels. This can lead to a calming or uplifting effect on the body.
Aromatherapy is usually used in one of two ways:
- Inhalation: This involves smelling the essential oils either directly from the bottle or a diffuser.
- Topical application: This involves applying the essential oils to the skin using lotions, creams, or massage.
Are there any risks associated with aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is generally considered safe when used as directed. Some people may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions when using essential oils topically. It is important to test a small area of skin before using an essential oil all over your body. When using essential oils, it is important to only use pure, unadulterated oils. Some commercial essential oils may be diluted with cheaper oils or have other chemicals added to them. This can reduce the effectiveness of the oil and potentially cause side effects.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should speak to your doctor before using essential oils. Certain essential oils should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to their potential effects on the developing baby.
It is also important to keep essential oils away from children and pets, as they can be toxic if ingested.
What are some common essential oils used in aromatherapy?
In a broad sense, essential oil can be made out of essentially any plant (pun intended). Now, depending on its healing properties it would be advisable to use the oils accordingly. Some common essential oils used in aromatherapy include:
- Lavender: Lavender oil is one of the most popular essential oils. It has a floral, slightly sweet smell. Lavender oil is said to be helpful for anxiety, stress, insomnia, and headaches.
- Peppermint: Peppermint oil has a refreshing, minty smell. Peppermint oil is said to be helpful for digestive issues, headaches, and colds.
- Tea tree: Tea tree oil has a medicinal, earthy smell. Tea tree oil is said to be helpful for acne, fungal infections, and dandruff.
- Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus oil has a fresh, minty smell. Eucalyptus oil is said to be helpful for coughs, colds, and congestion.
How to choose an essential oil?
There are many factors to consider when choosing an essential oil. These include the desired effect, smells that you like, and any skin sensitivities that you may have. You may also want to consult with a certified aromatherapist to help you choose the right essential oil for you. Some experienced aromatherapy practitioners may use it for certain rituals like meditation or yoga. A massage session with a proper oil can improve your blood flow and warm up the muscles, or cool you down in case your body is too sore.
How to use essential oils?
Aromatherapy has been used for centuries to help alleviate a wide variety of conditions. The essential oils used in aromatherapy can be derived from any number of plants, flowers, and fruits. Each essential oil has its unique smell and benefits. Aromatherapy is said to work by stimulating the nose’s olfactory receptors, which send signals to the limbic system. The limbic system is the part of the brain that controls emotions. This can lead to a calming or uplifting effect on the body. Aromatherapy is usually used in one of two ways: inhalation or topical application.
Essential oils can be used in a diffuser or diluted with a carrier oil and applied to the skin. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using essential oils. Some essential oils should not be used on the skin or ingested.
When using essential oils topically, it is important to dilute them with a carrier oil such as fractionated coconut oil or jojoba oil. This will help to prevent skin irritation. It is also important to test a small area of skin before using an essential oil all over your body.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should speak to your doctor before using essential oils. Certain essential oils should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to their potential effects on the developing baby.
Aromatherapy is a complementary therapy that can be used in addition to other treatments. It should not be used as a primary treatment for any medical condition. Aromatherapy may help to alleviate some symptoms, but it should not be relied on to cure any illness or condition. Speak to your doctor before using essential oils if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
