What is Aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine where natural oils extracted from flowers, stems, bark, leaves, roots or other parts of a plant are used for enhancing the physical and psychological well-being of an individual. Practiced since the early 1900s, Aromatherapy originated in Europe.
Also known as Essential Oil therapy, Aromatherapy is a science of using naturally extracted aromatic essences from plants in order to maintain a balance in the body. The therapy is believed to positively promote the health of one's body, mind and soul.
Aromatherapy can be applied on one's body through different ways. The essential oils can either be inhaled, mixed with other substances or directly massaged to the body. The oils get absorbed by the skin and then travel through the blood to promote the wellness of the body.
There are a number of essential oils available that come with their own healing properties. As per the type of oil and mode of application, one can see the results of aromatherapy in an individual. For example, pain relief essential oils stimulate the body in order to produce pain-fighting substances.
How does Aromatherapy work?
There are different modes of applying aromatherapy to one's body.
Topical Application
In this mode, essential oils are directly used for massage, baths and therapeutic skin care.
Aerial Diffusion
Environment or aerial disinfection is done for getting the results from aromatherapy.
Direct Inhalation
Direct inhalation is used for treating respiratory disinfection, congestion, expectoration and for other psychological problems.
When essential oils enter one's body, they get absorbed into the blood and are circulated around the body. They further work for treating issues with one's mind, body and soul.
What are the uses of Aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is used for treating a number of mental and physical conditions like high blood pressure, burns, depression, insomnia and infections. It also helps in relaxing and relieving the stress of the body. For those who are allergic can consult their doctor before getting any treatment. However, no scientific evidence has proven that aromatherapy effectively prevents or cures illness.
Benefits of Aromatherapy
- Aromatherapy helps in enhancing the mood of an individual.
- It helps in reducing the stress level of a person.
- The use of essential oils improves the blood and lymphatic circulation in the body of a human being.
- The therapy also helps in lowering down the blood pressure level.
- By killing bacteria, viruses, and fungal infections, aromatherapy strengthens the immune system of the body.
- Many aromas like that of citrus show uplifting tendencies which are believed to reduce the effects of depression.
- A major benefit of aromatherapy is that it helps in relieving pain. It has been proven that aromatherapy is successful in relieving menstrual pains.
