Aromatherapy involves the use of extracts from flowers and plants to promote a variety of health benefits. Through aromatherapy, essential oils are used to improve or cure various physical and psychological ailments.
The History of Aromatherapy:
For centuries, people have noted the numerous benefits of aromatherapy. The use of flower and plant extracts reportedly began over 6,000 years ago when the Egyptians began using certain oils for medicinal and burial purposes. Throughout the years, aromatherapy has been used by many major civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, Chinese, and Native Americans. Aromatherapy was also used during numerous world events, such as The Black Plague, World War I, and World War II.
Although the practice of aromatherapy has been around for thousands of years, the term was first created in 1930 by French chemist, Rene Maurice Gattefosse. After burning his arm during an explosion in a perfume factory, Gattefosse recognized the healing powers of lavender oil. As a result, lavender oil was used to treat injured soldiers during the Second World War.
Types of Aromatherapy:
Aromatherapy can be experienced in different ways. The three types of aromatherapy are Massage, Olfactory, and Cosmetic.
- Massage β One way that aromatherapy can be experienced is by having essential oils applied directly to the skin through massage. The direct external application of oil helps to kill germs and bacteria, and also increases resistance to illness by improving the immune system. The massage itself is beneficial in helping the patient to relax and to create a feeling of rejuvenation. Massage therapy also helps to reduce depression and to calm nerves and tension.
- Olfactory β Another way that aromatherapy can be experienced is through the use of the olfactory system. The inhalation of oils causes a chemical reaction in the body, which releases certain chemicals, such as Enkephalin, Endorphins, and Serotonin. The release of such chemicals causes a feeling of relaxation. The scent of the oil can aid in relieving stress and experiencing complete rejuvenation.
- Cosmetic β Cosmetic Aromatherapy involves the application of oils, which are placed in products for the body, skin, face, and hair. The use of such products helps to promote healthy skin. By taking a bath with certain oils, a person can experience a variety of emotional and psychological benefits, depending on the type of oil that is used.
Common Oils Used in Aromatherapy:
- Chamomile β As a therapeutic oil, chamomile is widely known for its calming effect. It is also commonly used as a treatment for headaches, muscle aches, and menstrual cramps.
- Eucalyptus β Eucalyptus is commonly used as an antiseptic and is known for its treatment of sore throats, coughs, and colds.
- Jasmine β Known as an antiseptic and aphrodisiac, jasmine also reportedly helps to speed up the labor process and to alleviate postpartum depression.
- Lavender β One of the most popular oils, Lavender is used as both an antiseptic and antidepressant. Lavender is commonly used to treat insomnia, menstrual cramps, burns, insect bites, and nervousness.
-Peppermint β Known for its cool and refreshing quality, peppermint is used to treat bad breath and to aid in digestion.
- Rosemary β Rosemary is often used in the treatment of headaches, muscular aches, arthritis, and the common cold. The most common use of rosemary, however, is to increase memory.
- Sandalwood β Sandalwood has a variety of benefits that range from physical to emotional. It is commonly used to treat dry skin and acne. Also known as a sedative, sandalwood is used to reduce stress and anxiety.
