Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the method of treatment using essential oils extracted from plants to promote well-being and general health. The aroma of these oils has profound effect to enhance your spirit, mind, and body.
The therapy has been used since ancient times, in countries all over the world. Egypt is said to be the birthplace of aromatherapy, and India and China have also included Aromatherapy in their traditional healing systems. Myrrh, cinnamon, galbanum, juniper berry and frankincense were used by the Egyptians.
The term “Aromatherapy” was coined by French chemist and perfumer, René-Maurice Gattefossé who wrote a book on the role of essential oils in medical conditions. Today, thousands of trained and skilled therapists offer this treatment for illnesses as well as mental wellbeing.
With Aromatherapy, you can beat the stress of daily life, as well as get physical and emotional relief from some medical conditions. It is well-known that medical conditions affect both emotionally and physically, and when your feelings are in tumult, then it takes more time for the body to heal.
The essential oils make your emotions stable, and when they are massaged into your body, they relieve your pains and aches and other conditions. Recently, with the focus on holistic healing, Aromatherapy is being used successfully in Wellness Centers, resorts and spas.
This natural therapy works with skin absorption and via the sense of smell. Diffusers, inhalers, aromatic spritzers, bathing salts, body oils, lotions and creams which are massaged or applied on the body.
These days there are over one hundred essential oils available. The therapist will choose the oil which would have the best healing effect on you. If you suffer from sleepless nights, pain that constantly plagues you, joints that are unbearably sore, or muscle pain in any part of the body, you could get much needed relief with aromatherapy.
The benefits of Aromatherapy are far-reaching. It is said to manage pain, reduce agitation, anxiety and stress, soothe aching and sore joints, treat migraines and headaches, alleviate chemotherapy side effects, improve quality of sleep, fight fungus, virus and bacteria, and boost immunity.
Some commonly used essential aromatic oils are cypress, fennel, basil, eucalyptus, geranium, ginger, lavender, jasmine, angelica, sage, lemon, lemongrass, patchouli, peppermint, rose, ylang ylang, rosemary, tea tree and vetiver. Therapists sometimes combine oils to deliver the best possible treatment to you.
Properties of commonly used aromatic oils:
Basil: Inhaling basil oil stimulates adrenal cortex. It treats anxiety, depression, fatigue, respiratory discomfort, bronchitis, colds, fever, menstrual problems, gout, and indigestion. Those who have sensitive skin, pregnant women and children should avoid this oil.
Chamomile: This essential oil is used to reduce allergies, inflammation, insomnia, depression, stress and digestion issues. Women who are undergoing emotional problems triggered by menopause and PMS would benefit from this oil. However, pregnant women should not use it.
Eucalyptus: This oil is recommended for clearing sinus congestion, viral and bacterial infections, boils, pimples and reducing coughs. Not recommended for patients of epilepsy and hypertension.
Ginger: Ginger essential oil is beneficial if you have arthritis, respiratory problems, colds, cough, constipation, fatigue, diarrhea, and fever. The spicy fragrance chases away your depression too.
Jasmine: Jasmine is an antidepressant, and reduces laryngitis and cough. It should be avoided during pregnancy. Ask for jasmine oil if you love the sweet fragrance!
Lemongrass: This aromatic oil is a nerve-soother, making you feel calm and balanced. It is an astringent and antiseptic that also helps in relieving insomnia.
Mental and Emotional trauma is as important to resolve as physical conditions. All of the unseen trauma can add up to create physical disorders in your body, apart from disrupting your life. Take a deep breath of the fragrant oils and feel the tension and stress dissipating from your body!