What Can Aromatherapy Uses Do For You?

aromatherapy uses

Aromatherapy is a holistic healing method that involves inhaling or applying diluted essential oils to the skin, often as part of massage. It’s believed to help treat a variety of conditions, from depression to nausea. This is because different oils have a variety of unique properties and scents that affect how we feel emotionally and physically.

Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts from the roots, seeds, leaves, blossoms and other parts of plants. They’re distilled to remove the scent from the plant and are then used in various ways for healing, perfumes and fragrances, or as a natural alternative to medications. Nova Covington, a certified aromatherapist and CEO of Goddess Garden, says that the key to finding success with aromatherapy is to make sure you’re using pure, unadulterated botanicals that have been sourced directly from Mother Nature. “You can find these types of essential oils at most health food stores or online,” she says. However, it’s important to keep in mind that although these oils are natural, they aren’t regulated by the FDA and should be used with caution by pregnant women and those with a history of allergies.

Many people use aromatherapy to reduce stress, relax, improve sleep, and boost the immune system, among other things. The practice may also aid in weight loss or ease pain, including fibromyalgia and arthritis joint pain. Some studies have shown that certain oils, such as peppermint and eucalyptus, can relieve headaches. Others, such as lemon, lavender and frankincense, can calm tension or anxiety. Then there’s ylang-ylang, a floral oil that’s said to help with menopause and PMS symptoms, while fennel, anise and sage oil are credited with helping improve digestion.

Patients with cancer who receive aromatherapy may be able to experience reduced pain, nausea and fatigue associated with their treatment. Some aromatherapy oils are thought to help relieve these issues, while others can soothe anxiety and irritability that comes with some cancer treatments.

According to Memorial Sloan Kettering, the aromatherapy used by cancer patients isn’t meant to replace their doctor-approved treatment plan, but it can be a good way to manage stress and alleviate discomfort during treatments. Patients can inhale scented oils such as chamomile, lavender and tea tree or apply them topically on the skin or scalp for added comfort.

The inhalation method of aromatherapy is the simplest and most popular. All you need to do is open a bottle of the chosen essential oil and inhale through your nose for about a second, suggests Covington. Another option is to place a few drops of the oil on a cotton ball and carry it with you. It can be placed on your desk, pillow or other location where you might want to experience the soothing effects of aromatherapy throughout the day. Lastly, you can purchase an aromatherapy device that has an absorbent wick and a cover to hold the oil. A dry evaporation method is also available, which requires placing several drops of the oil on an absorbent material, like terra cotta, and then allowing it to evaporate in the air as you sniff.