Aromatherapy is an alternative or complementary medicine. It uses aromatic oils extracted from flowers and plants to promote the well-being of people.
Our sense of smell absorbs natural aromas, and the olfactory receptors transport them to the brain’s limbic system. The limbic system is connected to emotions and mood. This is why aromatherapy can release chemicals related to emotions and stimulation the senses.
Uses of aromatherapy
Although aromatherapy has been used in various civilizations of antiquity for different purposes, today, it is the protagonist in aspects of health and cosmetic purposes.
It should be noted that being a complementary medicine does not cure diseases, pathologies or serious ailments, or at least there is no scientific evidence of it. Instead, aromatherapy supports conventional medical treatment. Essential oils can be used:
Holistically
It is used aromatherapy to treat physical and emotional disorders comprehensively. This therapy is often accompanied by massages or even yoga and pilates classes.
Clinically
In this case, conventional medicine is combined with aromatherapy for physical and general well-being. It is used to promote body relaxation in often tense environments, such as oncology or intensive care wards.
Aesthetically
Here, essential oils are used for skin care and beautification. They can be placed on the skin mixed with cream through massage or with humidifiers, incense and candles while giving a relaxing massage. Both strategies can also be combined.
Benefits of aromatherapy
Depending on the oils used and their properties, different problems can be solved. Some serve as analgesics, antibiotics, antiseptics, sedatives, diuretics and others. These are some of the problems that oils help to soothe:
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Menstrual pain
- Stress
- Headaches
- Menopausal pains
- Alopecia or hair loss
- Digestive problems
- Toothaches
- Sores
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Body and muscle discomfort
- Mouth sores
A health professional should always support its use, as it may have contraindications if any medication is used.
Aromatherapy techniques
The ways to carry out this aroma therapy are diverse in their application:
Massages
One or more oils are diluted and applied in a carrier, an oil, cream or gauze. Then it is applied with massages on the skin. Massages should never be done without first diluting the oils.
Indirect inhalation
In this case, the patient breathes the essential oil through a diffuser. The diffuser will spread the essential oil through the air.
Another technique is placing the essence in an accessory close to the nose. Some aromatherapy accessories are:
- Necklaces
- Bracelets
- Scarves
- Key chains
These are made with absorbent materials to which you apply essential oils and smell throughout the day.
One of the most typical ways to make them is by using scented candles and diffusers. Melted wax candles are excellent, and many of them are also environmentally friendly.
Direct inhalation
Direct inhalation does not refer to ingesting or swallowing the oils, as this can be a dangerous practice. Instead, drops of essential oil are placed inside an individual inhaler along with warm water, and the patient inhales from it.
Aromatherapy at home
In many homes, there is a habit of using air fresheners. You can make a natural one and take advantage of this custom to benefit your family’s health. There are also ways to spread essential aromas in your home for all tastes:
Candles
You can make your candle by adding the essential oil you find most appropriate. In addition to the aroma, a candle will be a combo of relaxation with its light’s warmth and medicinal or relaxing aromas.
Melted waxes
This is a more economical option than candles but not less efficient. In addition, the oil’s fragrance will last longer in melted wax than in a candle.
Scenting with wands
You can also make your aromatiser in a very simple way. By doing it yourself, you know the quality of the oil and avoid chemicals and processed oils unsuitable for aromatherapy.
Some of the essences that you can put in all these options for your home are:
- Eucalyptus: helps to breathe, purifies the air and repels insects.
- Lavender: improves sleep conciliation due to its relaxing characteristics and gives emotional balance.
- Peppermint: stimulates the brain and clears the mind. It is digestive and anti-inflammatory.
- Chamomile: brings benefits for dry skin and hair. It also helps to reduce allergies.
- Bergamot: Refreshes, relaxes and reduces health problems such as tension.
- Tea tree oil is commonly used for skincare, as it helps fight acne. It is also used for insect bites.
- Lemon oil: Many people find the citrus scent of lemon oil uplifting.
Another option to do aromatherapy at home is a bath in the tub. To do it safely, add 8 drops of the oil you want to use in 20 ml carrier oil.
Carrier oils or bases are vegetable oils extracted from plants or fruits used to dilute essential oils, making it possible to use them via the skin and sometimes orally. The most commonly used carrier oils are olive oil, almond oil, coconut oil and sesame oil.
As the oil will be in contact with your skin, you must dilute it with the correct proportions. Then you can take a relaxing and rewarding bath for your health.
Yoga and Aromatherapy
Yoga and Essential Oils offer the practitioner physical, mental and spiritual benefits. Essential oils are a very powerful tool, especially in combination with yoga. It facilitates the connection between body and mind.
Like yoga, aromatherapy and the use of essential oils strive to support the well-being of the body, mind and spirit. Aromatherapy achieves its best effects through the application and diffusion of pure essential oils that influence physical well-being, a positive emotional state and mental clarity.
Combining aromatherapy with yoga can powerfully enhance the practice of yoga.
Takeaway
The relaxation provided by these therapies can also serve to prevent stress-related ailments. Trying it can be a safe option for people undergoing an illness or medical treatment or those looking to preserve their physical and mental health.
Although it is a natural product therapy, oils also contain chemicals. Therefore, they can be dangerous in the case of massage applications if used without knowledge or allergy testing. Remember to always consult with a professional.
Now that you have new knowledge enjoy the full relaxation of the hand of aromatherapy.
Tommy Williamson did his degree in psychology at the University of Hertfordshire. He is interested in mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
