What is aromatherapy?
What is Aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is a traditional holistic therapy that has been used for thousands of years, using essential oils and other plant compounds to heal the body.
Essential oils are volatile aromatic compounds that are extracted by various methods from the flowers, leaves, fruits, herbs, grasses, trees and roots of trees, all around the world.
It can take hundreds of pounds of plant material to make a tiny amount of essential oil, and because of that it’s potent stuff! Did you know, it takes approximately 60 roses to produce a single drop of rose essential oil? Imagine the fragrance if you walked into a room filled with nearly 5 dozen aromatic roses.
Essential oils can, and most definitely should be used in all aspects of life - from skin, hair and body care to medicine, household and natural cleaning supplies.
Essential oils are most commonly used for therapeutic purposes, through absorption or inhalation.
Absorb.
Topical applications allow the molecules from the oils to pass through the epidermis of the skin and enter the bloodstream, before circulating around the muscles and tissues of the body.
A massage is a delightful way to incorporate aromatherapy, not just for the relaxation but because the increase in circulation aids better absorption of essential oils.
When absorbed through the skin essential oils have an anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-bacterial action, as well as many other benefits, depending on the particular oils used.
When applying essential oils to the skin, they must always be diluted in a carrier or base oil such as coconut oil.
Inhale.
Inhalation of essential oils can be done by smelling oils direct from the bottle, although this can sometimes cause sensitivity. An enjoyable, and safe method is to use an aromatherapy candle or diffuser which releases the essential oils into the atmosphere to be inhaled. Taking a warm bath with essential oils allows the aromatherapy to be inhaled from the steam, and to also be absorbed through the skin.
When essential oils are inhaled, the molecules are processed in the brain by the limbic system, which is linked to the processing of emotions, the formation and storage of memories, sexual arousal, and learning. The limbic system is thought to be an important element in the body’s response to stress, being highly connected to the endocrine and autonomic nervous systems. This is how inhaling essential oils really does have a direct effect on how we feel.
It is well known that using essential oils such as lavender, neroli and chamomile have a positive effect on mood and relaxation. They help calm stress and anxiety, ease headaches, and promote restful sleep.
Other oils such as eucalyptus, tea tree and lemon have an immune-boosting action with their anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. This makes them great additions to use for cleansing the air and surfaces in your home.
Some of my favourite essential oils to use...
Chamomile promotes an inner sense of peace and calm, reduces stress and anxiety, and promotes restful sleep.
Chamomile oil is a key ingredient in Nos da aromatherapy candle.
Cedarwood has been used for centuries in perfumery for its pleasing, woody smell. It has been shown to help calm nervous tension and anxiety, lessen hyperactivity and relax the body, making it a perfect addition to meditation.
Cedarwood oil adds a woody depth to Moon aromatherapy candle.
Eucalyptus has a sharp aroma which is invigorating, cleansing and penetrating. It helps support healthy immune and respiratory systems by clearing congestion, relieving sinus pressure, and reducing headaches. Eucalyptus is energising and mentally stimulating whilst also stress-reducing.
Eucalyptus oil brings a cleansing punch to Inhale essential oil blend.
Orange is sweet, fresh and fruity smelling. This uplifting essential oil helps alleviate tension and stress, fight fatigue, boost mental clarity, and encourage a positive outlook. Orange can be used to tone the skin, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Orange promotes better digestion, and helps rid the body of toxins and fluid accumulation.
Sweet orange creates the joyful heart of Hapus essential oil blend.
Rose Geranium has an exquisite, uplifting floral fragrance. Healer of the heart and commonly referred to as an aphrodisiac, this essential oil also helps relieve stress and nervous tension, boost confidence and self-esteem. Rose geranium is excellent for skin care with its beautifying properties.
Rose Geranium is the uplifting and stress busting component of Sea essential oil blend.