Aromatherapy is a general term for alternative medicine therapies that use various types of essential oils, which may be stimulating or sedative, to improve physical and mental health. One absorbs these oils into his or her body through either massage or inhalation. The main difference between aromatherapy and herbal medicine is that the latter involves the distillation of plant oils through a vaporizer or diffuser to produce an aroma while the former normally such oils in their "raw" form.
How Aromatherapy Works
The mixing and vaporizing process of carefully selected types of essential oils is not only the first but also the most important step in any aromatherapy program. Before starting therapy, aroma therapists first establish if their clients are allergic to both nuts and seeds since they are the main sources of essential oils.
During an aromatherapy session, aroma therapists guide clients through a process of inhaling vaporized essential oils that stimulate the parts of the brain that control emotions and memories. As a result, the brain releases chemicals that calm and relax the body. When used to massage various parts of the body, aromatic oils are likely to promote physical relaxation, stimulate mental relaxation, and improve the health of the skin by destroying harmful microbes. The premise of aromatherapy is that the sense of smell can stimulate the brain's limbic system that controls emotions that hinder or promote physical and psychological healing.
Benefits of Aromatherapy
• Many of the oils that aromatherapists use have healing properties that promote the healing of bacterial skin disorders.
• Since aromatherapy massages enhance blood circulation, they ultimately improve the ability of the body to get rid of harmful toxins.
• The use of essential oils in aromatherapy massages generally relieves pressure and discomfort in lymph nodes. This can be highly beneficial for arthritis patients and individuals who suffer from various joint-pain related illnesses.
• According to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, some studies have shown that some of the oils used in aromatherapy have sedative properties. As such, they can help patients deal with certain medical conditions such as fatigue and insomnia. Aromatherapy can also treat stress-related disorders such as depression, migraines, and anxiety.
• Some studies have shown that aromatherapy massages can significantly reduce physical discomfort in some medical situations such as childbirth labor due to the calming effects of inhaling aromatic oils.
• Due to the anti-bacterial and antifungal properties of aromatic oils, aromatherapy improves the tone and appearance of skin.
• Aromatherapy is effective in fighting viral infections such as colds. This is because certain plant extracts, such as menthol have properties that can treat clogged sinuses and alleviate some symptoms of common colds.
Overall, aromatherapy takes a holistic physical and a psychological treatment approach. For it to work, professional aromatherapists select a blend of essential oils with properties that suit the needs of different clients. It is important to consult a doctor before starting aromatherapy since some essential oils may be harmful to people who have some medical conditions such as diabetes.