Aromatherapy is a type of alternative medicine that uses essential oils and other compounds from plants to improve health. Often used to help ease discomfort, stress, anxiety and mood disorders, aromatherapy has been around for thousands of years.
An essential oil is a concentrated liquid extract from the roots, leaves, seeds, or blossoms of certain plants that have natural fragrance. Many oils have multiple benefits and uses, depending on the specific plant they come from.
Some are used to treat physical ailments, while others are used to promote a sense of well-being and relaxation. These can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled, either directly or in a diffuser.
Essential oils are a natural way to improve your health and boost energy. They can also help reduce stress, if you use them regularly and correctly.
Choosing a good essential oil is important, as you’ll want to find one that contains only pure and authentic plant compounds. It’s also a good idea to look for a company that’s been around for many years.
It’s always a good idea to talk to a doctor before using essential oils or any other natural remedies, since they can interact with medications and cause negative side effects. For example, frankincense oil (Boswellia serrata) can have an impact on blood thinners, so you should avoid it if you take these.
Some common types of essential oils include chamomile, lavender, ylang ylang, clary sage and lemon. These oils have been shown to help reduce pain, nausea and anxiety.
They’re used to soothe indigestion and headaches, as well as ease the itching of bug bites. They can also be mixed with a massage oil to relieve muscle pain, achy joints and swollen feet.
You can also add some essential oil to your bath water for a relaxing experience. Just be sure to dilute it with a carrier oil first, because some oils can be too strong on their own.
If you’re new to aromatherapy, start small – just a few drops in your bath will make a big difference. Then, gradually build up your intake.
Try a few different scents before you settle on your favorite. There are hundreds of different essential oils to choose from, each with a unique aroma and healing properties.
The National Cancer Institute has found that massaging people with a Roman chamomile oil (diluted) can alleviate some of the symptoms of cancer, while it may also ease pain and increase energy levels.
It’s also thought to be beneficial for women during their menstrual cycle, as it has estrogen-like chemicals. However, more studies are needed.
During pregnancy, you should limit your usage of essential oils to floral or citrus varieties. You should also be careful about using them on your skin if you have sensitive or allergic skin, Davila says.
The best way to learn more about aromatherapy is to consult a trained aromatherapist. They can help you identify the right oils for your needs, determine which ones are safe to use and give you tips on how to incorporate them into your daily routine.