Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is a holistic healing treatment that uses natural plant extracts to promote health and well-being. Sometimes it’s called essential oil therapy. Aromatherapy uses essential oils medicinally to improve the health of the body, mind, and spirit. It enhances both physical and emotional health.
Essential oils are made from flowers, herbs and tree parts. The cells that give a plant its fragrant smell are its “essence.” When an essence is extracted from a plant, it becomes an essential oil.
Not all products made with plant essence are essential oils. True essential oils aren’t blended with other chemicals or fragrances. They’re made using a specific process that doesn’t change the chemistry of the plant.
Lemon, chamomile, lavender, cedarwood, and bergamot are a few of the essential oils used regularly in aromatherapy.
Benefits of Aromatherapy
- Manage Pain
- Soothe sore joints
- Treat headaches and migraines
- Alleviates side effects of chemotherapy
- Helps to reduce anxiety, depression
- Improves digestion
- Promotes healthier sleep
- Boost immunity
How does Aromatherapy Work?
Aromatherapy works through the sense of smell and skin absorption using products such as these:
- diffusers
- aromatic spritzers
- inhalers
- bathing salts
- body oils, creams, or lotions for massage or topical application
- facial steamers
- hot and cold compresses
- clay masks
You can use these alone or in any combination. There are nearly one hundred types of essential oils available.
Essential oils are available online, in health food stores, and in some regular supermarkets. It’s important to buy from a reputable producer since the oils aren’t regulated by the FDA. This ensures you’re buying a quality product that is 100 percent natural. It shouldn’t contain any additives or synthetic ingredients.
