A century ago, young women recognized the power of aromatherapy, though it hadn’t yet been called by that name. A dab of vanilla served as a perfume, and rose petals were dropped into soap as it was being made. There were plenty of other places that scent was used to make life more pleasant.
Indulging in aromatherapy is such a pleasurable way to increase your energy levels, help you relax, ease your stress, and relieve common health problems. There are few things more inviting and relaxing to many people than a tub filled with warm water, delicious-smelling bubbles and several candles giving off their luxurious scents.
The heart of aromatherapy is essential oils, which not only improve your sense of wellbeing but also relieve certain physical conditions. Essential oils are derived from plants and herbs and can be very powerful. You receive their subtle benefits as the chemicals interact with your body, either through the skin or by breathing in their sweet fragrance.
Aromatherapy can be experienced in many delightful ways. Soak in a hot tub laced with delicately fragrant ylang ylang to soothe jangled nerves. Pamper yourself with a rose oil massage to hydrate dry skin. Place a single drop of lavender oil on your pillow to help you sleep. Or light some exotic jasmine or sandalwood candles to help get you “in the mood”. Keep in mind that ordinary scented products won’t give you aromatherapy’s benefits; you have to use essential oils.
There are two reasons people choose certain oils and scents used in aromatherapy. One is simple – they like the smell. It may be something that reminds them of another place and time (cinnamon, ginger or vanilla are among the top choices here), or just a smell they like without a real reason.
The other reason to choose a particular scent is for its healing and restorative powers. Grapefruit is one of those smells that some people may not care for, but it’s credited with relieving stress, fear and tiredness. Think that’s just so much nonsense? A study released recently cited the fact that men tended to guess women’s age at an average of six years younger than their true age – when that woman was wearing a grapefruit scent. The study was reputable, but it gives rise to the question, “why?” Were the men affected by the smell of grapefruit? Or was it that the women found confidence and lost some of their fatigue when they smelled the grapefruit? Either way, the study gives at least some credence to the art of aromatherapy.
Organic aromatherapy oils can do so much more than rejuvenate you. Basil helps you to concentrate, and can ease the pain of a headache. Bergamot, which gives Earl Grey tea its distinctive flavor, is beneficial to the urinary and digestive tracts. Citronella oil is commonly used as an insect repellant. Clove oil numbs the skin to relieve pain. Eucalyptus oil is often used in combination with peppermint to help you breathe during a cold.
Remember, essential oils are powerful, and they should never be applied to the skin in an undiluted form. Because they are highly concentrated they can only be safely used in small amounts, measured in drops.
You’ll find that aromatherapy takes some time and dedication if you want to garner the intended effects. You may have to do some experimenting to get the scents and oils that are best for you.