Aromatherapy is a form of complementary therapy that uses essential oils extracted from plants to improve physical and mental health. It’s popular among both people and medical professionals.
A wide range of essential oils can be used in aromatherapy to relieve stress, anxiety and depression, ease PMS symptoms, improve sleep, treat headaches and menstrual cramps, reduce nausea, aches or pains, lower cholesterol, promote weight loss and more. It can also help heal wounds and reduce the pain and discomfort of arthritis.
How can I use aromatherapy?
Many people find that aromatherapy is a good way to relax and unwind. It can be used alone or combined with other forms of relaxation, such as massage.
To get the most out of your experience, you should seek the services of a qualified aromatherapist. You can ask your GP for a recommendation or find one online.
Before starting any new type of therapy, it’s important to consult with your doctor. They can help you determine if it’s safe for you and if any medication or treatments you take may interact with your aromatherapy treatment.
In aromatherapy, a therapist will typically ask questions about your health and lifestyle to determine the best blend of essential oils for you. The therapist then applies the oils to your body in a variety of ways. This might include a massage, a face mask or a foot bath.
When choosing an essential oil, look for a high-quality, pure product. Make sure to read the label, as some oils are diluted with synthetic fragrances or other ingredients that don’t have the same healing properties.
Avoid the use of certain essential oils, such as peppermint, if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to menthol, or if you have a history of dermatitis or allergies. In addition, don’t use an essential oil if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as some oils could cause fetal harm.
Using essential oils in the bath can be especially soothing, as they release their therapeutic properties into the water. A good bath blend can be made with lavender, chamomile, lemon or other aromatic essential oils to create an environment that is peaceful and restful.
It’s also a great idea to use an aromatherapy diffuser in your home, especially during times of high stress or anxiety. Essential oils are released into the air by vaporizers or diffusers and can reach your brain, where they are able to cross the blood-brain barrier and stimulate a sense of calmness and relaxation.
The calming effects of lavender and chamomile are believed to lower the activation of the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the fight-or-flight response in your body. Some of the other oils that have calming effects include helichrysum, rose and neroli.
Some cancer patients have found that aromatherapy helps them feel better when they are going through chemotherapy or other treatments. A wide range of essential oils can reduce nausea, fatigue, pain, depression and insomnia.