Introduction to Aromatherapy
By Nataliya Slesarenko
People all over the world have been using plant oils for their health for centuries as a good component of holistic care that enhances both physical and emotional wellbeing of a person. This approach is known as aromatherapy. Aromatherapy is a type of complementary therapy that uses essential oils where the oils can be used by itself or may accompany medical treatment of different health conditions.
Essential oils have a variety of psychological and physiological effects on humans’ wellbeing.
Different plant oils may improve mental status depending on the requirements, for example, assist with stress relieve, relaxation, sedation or stimulation of mind and mood.
Essential oils may impact on physical conditions by producing anti-inflammatory, antiseptic effects; stimulate or reduce appetite; cooling or warming effects; they even can reduce blood pressure and open airways.
Aromatherapy can be beneficial for all body systems, such as skin, nervous, digestive, circulatory, respiratory, immune, etc.
These are a few of many methods for application of essential oils:
- Vaporisation by use of burners, diffusers, light bulbs, or radiators.
- Bath – putting some drops in bath water (should be mixed with some soap/shampoo for better dissolution, as essential oils do not dissolve in water). Can be full body bath or for a part of the body – e.g., foot/hand bath.
- Massage of the body or its parts by using neutral (carrier) oils. It should be light, non-sticky oil with a soft scent.
- Inhalation by putting some aroma oil drops on a person’s pillow or adding to a bowl with steaming water.
However, successful use of essential oils requires some specific knowledge and awareness of unique properties and effects of different plants. Some essential oils are toxic, may cause allergy and irritation, some can be phototoxic, and some cannot be used for sensitive skin. It is very important to be aware of certain health conditions that can be contraindications for the therapy and medical treatment taken by a person.
You also need to know if it is possible to use an oil by itself or if it should be blended (mixture of different aroma oils). If you are considering using blends, it would be safer to use ready combined products from a reliable supplier to avoid negative effects of wrong mixing (components and proportions). A reliable supplier of aroma oils will reduce risks and provide clear, trustworthy information about the product.
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