People are of the view that aromatherapy is just aroma and no therapy. They feel that all these essential oils do is smell good, but have no ‘real’ benefits. Aromatherapy is known to positively affect the following conditions, and are no way exhaustive: anxiety, insomnia and stress; asthma; eczema; digestive problems; headaches; menstrual problems, including those of menopause; muscular aches and pains; among many others. Aromatherapy is also known to also provide relaxation, mood enhancement, and a general feeling of well being. In addition, it provides a boost to the various systems in our body, such as the circulatory system, the respiratory system, as well as the immune system. Aromatherapy is also known to bring relief to minor discomforts. Though aromatherapy may not cure major ailments of the body, it definitely does provide some relief. It is great as a complement to other normal health treatments. The Effects Of Essential Oils The essential oils are the extracts of various aromatic plants, and are extracted from the flowers, leaves, and stems, in addition to their barks, fruits, and also their roots. These essential oils from damask rose, geranium, lavender, lemon grass, and mandarin, in addition to neroli (an essential oil obtained by distilling orange flowers), Roman chamomile (or English chamomile), and sandalwood, among others, are known to: • Improve sleep, digestion, and blood circulation • Improve tone of the skin • Provide relief to menstrual cramps and menopausal problems • Provide relief to headaches caused by tensions, and relax the muscles • Generally stimulate the immune system, and energize the body • Reduce sinus and lung congestion, along with inflammation • Heal wounds and eliminate fungal infections, as well as bacterial infections • Regulate hormones The aromas of the essential oils are not just for smelling good, but have the ability to positively affect your emotions and mind. During aromatherapy, the aromas of the essential oils – on sniffing – hit that part of the brain that controls our moods. These aromas – on reaching this part of the brain known as the Limbic system – help release endorphins, neurotransmitters and other chemicals that make you feel-good. In aromatherapy, the essential oils are also used for massaging. This topical application of the essential oils helps absorb them into the skin and hence into the blood stream. Topical applications of these oils ensure that they directly affect the areas that need to be healed. Along with the healing effects of topical applications of the essential oils, aromatherapy also provides soothing effects. Topical applications and massaging heal muscle ache and bruises you have on your body. Along with a great sense of smell, the essential oils are also antiseptic, and take care of a number of bacteria, which can be harmful to us. Care needs to be taken that the essential oils, being very concentrated, are diluted before massaging and topical applications. Dilutions are carried out with the help of carriers, such as alcohol, lotions, vinegar, or water. These carriers are called so, as they carry the essential oils to the parts that require to be healed. Zena Morris is the author at Aromatherapy Answers, a leading website on aromatherapy, massage and essential oils. Tags: aromatherapy, essential oil, massage Related PostsPost a comment
|