Aromatherapy is the holistic method of caring for your body through the use of natural fragrances. Most of these fragrances are essential oils, which are derived from plants, flowers, fruits, roots and leaves. Essential oils have a powerful effect through the sense of smell. Scientific evidence for aromatherapy is preliminary, but it is encouraging so far for treatment of several health concerns. Many people enjoy the relaxing and healing effects of aromatherapy at a spa, but you may also treat yourself to aromatherapy in the comfort of your own home.
The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy defines aromatherapy as "the art and science of utilizing naturally extracted aromatic essences from plants to balance, harmonize and promote the health of body, mind and spirit". This non-invasive practice treats the whole person, not just the illness or pain, and is therefore considered a holistic approach. Aromatherapy is a natural treatment that many people embrace as an alternative or addition to traditional medicine.
Aromatherapy affects your mood and health, and can promote feelings of relaxation. Essential oil fragrances activate the limbic system, which supports the emotions and the pleasure center of the brain. Direct inhalation of certain oils can help also alleviate respiratory decongestion, as well as having positive psychological effects. Essential oils can be diffused in the air by a nebulizer, through aromatherapy candles, or burned as incense. Check out natural body and skin care products containing essential oils and enjoy the relaxation and healing at home.
Essential oils are diluted with carrier oils before direct skin application, as used in skin care products, bath products, and massage oils. Aromatherapy products can relieve aches and pains, alleviate tension, and sooth the skin. Many essential oils have antiseptic properties and can kill microbes and fungi when used on the skin.
Essential oils are liquids containing aromatic compounds that are the most potent and concentrated extracts from plant materials. These essence oils are approximately 75-100 times more concentrated than in the dried plant. These oils carry the distinctive scent, or essence, of the original plant source. Essential oils are volatile and most tend to evaporate quickly when exposed to air. Today, over 100 essential oils are commonly used.
Aromatherapy also refers to various traditions that use essential oils in combination with other alternative medicines and spiritual beliefs. Many people feel there is a synergy that exists between the body and aromatic oils. They believe that when essential oils are used in a massage, they are passed on to the specific organs or systems of the body where they enhance the natural functions of these organs.
Aromatherapy originated in France, where it is integrated into modern medicine today. In Europe, essential oils are commonly used for their antiseptic and antibacterial properties. Many countries use aromatherapy as a treatment modality, but it is not recognized as mainstream medicine or science, such as the United States.
Aromatherapy and essential oils have very powerful effects through our sense of smell. Aromatherapy uses particular scents from essential oils to bring about curative effects on the body. It affects mood and health, and can promote feelings of relaxation. This non-invasive, holistic practice treats the whole person, along with treating the illness or pain. Aromatherapy is a holistic approach that many people embrace as a natural treatment for the body, mind, and spirit.
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