Discovering the Benefits of Aromatherapy

The description for aromatherapy is the usage of essential oils from plants for the purpose of healing. The word ‘aroma’ is deceiving as it makes it sound as though the oils are inhaled. That is only partially true as they can be massaged into the skin and in rare instances and only with specific instructions from a qualified specialist or trained individuals they can be taken orally. Regardless if they are inhaled or applied directly to the skin, new attention is being given to essential oils as a substitute treatment for stress, infections, and other health problems.

The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, Chinese, and some Indian tribes used essential oils for therapeutic purposes dating back some 6,000 years. They were used in perfumes, cosmetics, and certain drugs. More commonly they were used for therapeutic, spiritual, hygienic, and for ritualistic purposes. The United States waited until the 1980s before embracing the benefits of aromatherapy. There are many products on the market today that are being sold as aromatherapy. These products consist of synthetic fragrances which do not have the same properties as essential oils.

The concentrated extracts which are taken from roots, seeds, leaves, or the blossoms of plants are how essential oils are made. The mix of active ingredients determines what the oil will be used for. Certain essential oils are used to bolster physical healing such as treating swelling or fungal infections. There are also others that are used for their emotional benefits as they boost relaxation and make a room smell pleasing.

Knowing exactly how aromatherapy works is still not clear to researchers. Our sense of smell plays a vital role as the receptors in our noses communicates with the amygdala and hippocampus in our brain. These areas of the brain store our emotions and memories and when we breathe in essential oil molecules they become stimulated and influence physical, emotional and mental health. When essential oils are applied directly to the skin they are absorbed and are breathed in at the same time.

A good understanding what essential oils can be used for and their benefits should be gained before venturing into an aromatherapy regime of your own. For example, those that include lavender, rose, orange, lemon, bergamot, and sandalwood have been shown to relieve stress, anxiety and depression. Other evidence suggests that peppermint oil can help with digestion issues where as citrus oils tend to strengthen the immune system.

Individuals who should proceed with caution:

people with asthma or history of allergies should only use under guidance from a trained professional
pregnant women especially those with a history of seizures should avoid hyssop oil
people with high blood pressure should avoid rosemary and spike lavender
women with estrogen dependent tumors should not use oils with estrogen like compounds such as fennel, aniseed, sage and clary-sage
people receiving chemotherapy

Most inhaled essential oils are generally considered safe. However in some rare cases aromatherapy can induce side effect such as rashes, headaches, asthma, liver and nerve damage. Should you develop any symptoms consult a physician immediately.

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