Scents play a big role in our lives. For this reason, aromatherapy oils can be incredibly beneficial. Some fragrances may recall memories or transmit sensations. Who has not felt better after going to a sauna with a eucalyptus smell? Or associated flower scents with feelings of calm and peace?
Aromatherapy takes advantage of this basic human instinct to treat diseases, provide well-being, skincare, and relaxation. It can be defined as the therapeutic use of essential oils for prevention and/or auxiliary treatment of physical, psychological, and energetic problems.
True Aromatherapy
True aromatherapy consists of the therapeutic application of 100% essential oils in baths, massages, compresses, diffusions, internal use, etc. Before being used, the essential oils are frequently dissolved in neutral lotions such as vegetable oils, cereal water, or cereal alcohol. This preserves chemical properties and chemical/physical activity in the human body.
According to “The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils”, the favored technique of aromatherapists is massage, because it ensures that the oils are absorbed into the skin and into the bloodstream. In this method, the essence is diluted into base oil (jojoba, avocado, peanut, soy, peach kernel oil, etc.). Another book, “Aromatherapy: Healing for the Body & Soul,” emphasizes the importance of rubbing the oil on the skin. The author, Kathi Keville, claims that human touch warms the body, relieves stress, relaxes, and encourages deep breathing.
Benefits of Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is known for bringing well-being and stress relief to people, but this is only one of its possible benefits. This therapy can affect the body’s chemistry, emotions, and attitudes as well as the ability of the body to function. The book “Aroma Therapy: Healing for the body and soul” cites a wide range of therapeutical uses for Aromatherapy:
- Reduction of pain, inflammations, and spasms;
- Stimulation of the immune system, hormone production and blood circulation;
- Skin infections;
- Heal from respiratory and digestive problems;
- Emotional problems, like depression and panic.
Precautions
Some essential oils, like camphor, thuja, and red thyme, can cause damage to patients due to their high toxicity levels, which can cause severe dermal irritation. Essential oils should not be applied directly to the skin; they should be diluted in a carrier oil or cream. It is also suggested to do a patch test on the skin before using the essential oil because some people can be very sensitive or have allergic reactions. Some oils, like lemon and verbena, when exposed to the sun, may cause spots.
The “Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils” warns that pregnant patients or those who have diabetes, high blood pressure, or epilepsy cannot be massaged with some essential oils. It is recommended that they inform the therapist about their condition. It also says that essential oils should not be used at home to treat serious medical or psychological problems.
Aromatherapy Oils: Properties
The oils have different properties. Some of the most common essential oils are:
- Calming – chamomile, lavender, geranium;
- Uplifting: – ylang ylang, clary sage, rose, neroli, lemon, fennel;
- Energizing: – rosemary, thyme (white), grapefruit, cinnamon;
- Cleansing – rosemary, tea tree, lavender; frankincense;
- Decongesting – eucalyptus, pine, tea tree, peppermint;
Profession
Although nowadays, aromatherapy has become a widespread practice around the world, it is still considered a complementary medicine in the majority of countries. In France, aromatherapy is part of the formal education in medical schools. Throughout history, medicinal and aromatic plants were used to purify and scent places, scare away evil spirits, treat skin and other physical disorders, as in the use of infusions, in the mummification process in ancient Egypt and in Roman baths.
According to The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA), the organization that promotes and supports the practice of this method, there is no licensure or laws for aromatherapy in the US. NAHA determined that to become an aromatherapist, it is necessary to have graduated from a course of at least 200 hours.
Some professionals incorporate the training of this technique with their licensed work. It is the case for many massage therapists, acupuncturists, doctors, and nurses.
Read more:
Aromatherapy: Uses, benefits, oils, and risks
Aromatherapy: Do Essential Oils Really Work? | Johns Hopkins Medicine
