Aromatherapy is a natural, noninvasive way to treat yourself and enhance the physical well-being of your body. It involves using scented plant extracts, such as essential oils, to relieve pain and promote relaxation. Aromatherapy may also help ease anxiety and depression. It can also boost mood and help with sleep. Aromatherapy is a popular complementary and alternative treatment. It has been used for thousands of years and is a safe and simple approach to healing.

Aromatherapy uses the olfactory system to send messages to the brain that affect your mood, alertness and stress levels. Different scents stimulate specific areas of your brain and trigger the release of chemicals, including feel-good dopamine. Certain fragrances can reduce headaches, improve circulation and increase energy levels. Others can aid digestion, alleviate aches and pains and relieve indigestion.

Whether you inhale the oil directly from the bottle or add them to a bath, vaporizer or massage lotion, essential oils work by entering the bloodstream through your nose or skin, where they are absorbed by specialized cells. The oils then travel through your organs to treat the underlying cause of your symptoms.

Many people use aromatherapy for stress, anxiety and insomnia. Inhaling the scents of bergamot, lemon or eucalyptus can stimulate your senses, relieve tension and lower your heart rate. The fragrances of lavender and rose can soothe your emotions. They can also lift your mood, according to several studies.

You can find a wide variety of essential oils at health food stores and online. Look for ones that are organic, non-GMO, and ethically sourced. Rocky Mountain Oil is a popular brand that offers high-quality oils at reasonable prices. Its products are USDA-certified organic, cruelty-free and vegan. Another good option is Pura D’or, a beauty and body care company that has partnered with aromatherapist Mikki Anderson to create a lineup of natural and effective oils. The company’s oils are ethically sourced from family-run farms and small distilleries.

A professional aromatherapist can recommend the best oil for your needs and show you how to apply it properly. A professional will also tell you how to use the oils at home for your own personal wellness benefit. However, it’s important to note that aromatherapy does not cure conditions like cancer or rheumatoid arthritis, and you should never take essential oils by mouth. It’s also not recommended to combine massage therapy with aromatherapy, as this could be harmful.