A Basic introduction to Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is a form of alternative health therapy where a pure essential oil is ingested for its health effects. Aromatherapy has been around since the start of recorded history and its uses are often said to go beyond the physical and into the healing of the mind and spirit.
All About Essential Oils
Essential oil is a distilled form of certain tree or flower – such as rose essential oil or sandalwood essential oil. The refinement process is the ultimate determinant of the quality of the essential oil itself.
It usually takes an enormous amount of plant matter to produce a small vial of essential oil, so they are to be treated as precious and kept in good condition.
In some of the more esoteric texts, the essential oils are described as the soul of the plant itself. Aside from these texts, many scientific studies have verified the efficacy of essential oils. Essential oils are nearly always combined with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil.
Benefits of Essential Oils
Essential oils have a wide range of benefits which will depend on the particular kind of oil used. Essential oils can easily cross the blood-brain barrier and are said to have a distinct effect on the hypothalamus.
This is why essential oils are often connected to emotional healing and sexual well-being. Essential oils have a calming effect on the central nervous system, something which is needed in a modern society with high-stress levels and digital products permeating every aspect of daily life.
Essential oils can further assist with sleep, focus, energy, well-being, emotional healing, digestion, anxiety, and a number of other common ailments.
Aromatherapy Methods
There are a large number of ways to gain the benefits of essential oils. A diffuser can blend the essential oil with water vapor, scenting the room at predetermined intervals.
Perhaps the most useful method of ingestion is through a massage, where an essential oil is rubbed onto the skin. The downside of this method is that it is highly likely that a fragrance oil is being used instead of pure essential oil.
You can also just smell the essential oil directly instead of using any kind of advanced technique. Some essential oils can be ingested orally, though this can be very rough on the digestive system.
This method of ingestion is generally not recommended, and if you use a synthetic fragrance oil instead of pure essential oil, you may easily have to go to the hospital.
HOW TO MAKE AROMATHERAPY WORK FOR YOU
Aromatherapy is the art of diffusing essential oils so that they can be inhaled for therapeutic purposes. Aromatherapy has been around for a long time and can be very beneficial for those who do it correctly.
Making Aromatherapy Work
The first step in aromatherapy is selecting your essential oil. This is mainly an intuitive process. Test out some essential oils at your local store. Alternatively, if you are suffering from certain symptoms, then do some online research in order to see which ones are the best for your ailments.
Over time, your skill will grow and you will understand which ones are the right fit. When selecting an essential oil, you must ensure that it is of the highest quality. Avoid fragrance oils, as these are very low quality often combined with cheap materials. Like all things, the benefits of essential oils are at their best when you use them consistently.
So you should really try to apply them in the morning and evening for a few weeks. You may also consider putting a few dabs on your pillow at night to get the full effects.
Using a Diffuser
A diffuser is a great way to avail of all of the benefits of essential oil. A diffuser uses ultrasonic pulses to mix essential oil and water. It then gently diffuses the mixture in the form of vapor.
You can even set a timer on some of the diffusers so that that they come on in the morning on waking and before you go to sleep. They can also be used in sitting rooms and kitchens to freshen the place up.
Some diffusers can also serve as humidifiers, which is useful for people suffering from sinus problems. Diffusers may also provide lighting in order to create an atmosphere.
Diversity of Essential Oil Application
Aromatherapy is one of the best holistic tools in terms of slow and gentle health enhancement. Here are five of the most popular and effective essential oils used by aromatherapy experts worldwide.
#1 – Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender is one of the most effective essential oils in terms of promoting a good nights rest and also for the purposes of reducing anxiety. Lavender flowers (from which the essential oil is distilled) come primarily from England, France, Spain, and Bulgaria. Lavender essential oil is an analgesic, antifungal, and antiseptic substance.
#2 – Rose Essential Oil
The emotional and psychological benefits of the rose plant are well known, a symbol of love and grace all over the globe. Rose essential oil, much like the flower, is associated with the heart chakra.
Aside from its esoteric benefits, rose oil can help to fight stress, moisturize skin, treat wounds, and reduce inflammation. It is also regarded as a mild aphrodisiac. Damascus roses are considered to be the best variety in terms of distillation, with the highest oil content.
#3 – Frankincense Essential Oil
Frankincense is one of the strongest essential oils, especially in terms of fighting infections and boosting the immune system. It is most often used as an antiseptic, diuretics, and sedative.
Frankincense is also mentioned in the bible and the oil is distilled from trees in Pakistan and Somalia. High-quality frankincense can be a little more expensive than other forms of essential oil.
#4 – Sandalwood Essential Oil
Sandalwood has a rich and earthy aroma that is very grounding and nurturing according to aromatherapy enthusiasts. It is known to be a potent aphrodisiac as well as very effective for boosting energy levels. There are three trees from which sandalwood is made from, with the Indian trees being the highest quality. It has historically been used in many religious ceremonies in India and the tree itself is considered holy.
#5 – Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil has a wide variety of uses. Its most common application is for dealing with respiratory problems, and it helps to alleviate coughs, sore throats, and sinus issues. It also provides relief from asthma and acts as an immune system stimulant. Overall, eucalyptus oil is one of the best in terms of dealing with colds and respiratory issues. It is a refreshing essential oil that is perfect for aromatherapy.
You can share this information with your friends, if you want to know more about it, follow the link. You can make questions or leave comments.