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When I last visited the store, it seemed as though everywhere I turned there were many different products promising results, which were simply based on the fact that they contained a specific aromatherapy scent, which would include candles, oils, and shampoos. But, there was one key question that kept popping up in my head: are all these aromatherapy treatments just fluff, which are aimed at selling more products to consumers or could they be linked to some actual research?
The art of aromatherapy has been in people's lives since the time of the Egyptians many centuries ago. Yet we, as individuals, experience this very phenomenon each day and many of us are not aware that we are or what it could mean for us. You will probably find that there are a number of times when you have walked down the street or entered a room only to get a whiff of something which brought back wonderful memories; or it made you feel really great and energized. You will also find that every time you do so you are experiencing aromatherapy, which is something passively occurring in your everyday daily life.
You will find that in the end, aromatherapy is structured around science, which will reflect the interactions between an individual's psychological, neurology and immune system. Additionally, there have been a number of different researches which have recognised a strong correlation between both the positive and negative experiences of using aromatherapy, and something which positively affects our immune system and psyche. More so, it was found that the old adage of mind over body has been understood and recognized by science, as well as the modern medical field. But, you will need to also consider that you are able to boost your mood by creating a more positive outlook and using aromatherapy, and by doing this you will be able to strengthen your overall body, mind and spirit.
Aromatherapy works because it utilizes the sense of smell which is our strongest sense. Unlike the other senses, our sense of smell has a direct path to the brain and more importantly it has a direct path to our limbic system. Through this direct portal aromas are able to directly affect conscious thought and reactions as the limbic system is responsible for our memories (turning short term to long term), learned responses, emotions and feelings.
Although aromatherapy utilizes the sense of smell by triggering specific parts of the brain it also works by directly absorbing the essential oil molecules into our bodies, whether it is through the bronchial tract when using a differ or steam distillation or through the skin in a massage or bath.
You will find that although aromatherapy does utilize a person's sense of smell, by triggering some specific areas of the brain, it will also work by directly absorbing some essential oil molecules into the body. It will do this whether through the bronchial tract (if using steam distillation) or through massaging or soaking the skin with the oil.
For instance, peppermint as an oil has been known for its ability to calm a person's digestive problems and will work best for this specific instance when it is inhaled, yet others work best when they are massaged into an individual's skin.
It is important also to recognize that although certain essential oils have specific benefits they do not work equally for each individual. For instance Lavender is considered to be very effective in calming the mind, body and spirit however if you do not like the fragrance of Lavender it will not have the same effect on you, therefore it is important to work with the essential oils that you enjoy.
This is easy to do because many essential oils have similar or overlapping benefits, leaving you with a number of options for one particular issue. Another option is to mix a couple or a few essential oils together to create your own fragrance that you enjoy and can ultimately receive the vast benefits they have to offer.
Linda has a wealth of experience in the different parts of aromatherapy and alternative medicine for individuals thinking whether does aromatherapy work and whether they should use it in their own lives. She has also been asked does alternative medicine work too. |
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