Aromatherapy and Essential Oils

by Terri Atwell
Kkat Ventures LLC

The practice of aromatherapy has been used for hundreds of years to reduce stress, affect mood variations and calm. Aromatherapy is the act of using the sense of smell to energize your body, reduce daily stress and improve your mood through different scents and scented oils. Aromatherapy is also used in the treatment or prevention of a disease or symptoms of a disease. Scented oils and essential oils are the primary ingredients in the use of aromatherapy, and it is crucial to understand each oil's unique effect on your mood. Though scented oils are frequently used in body lotions, beauty products and scented candles, essential scented oils are regarded as specific holistic treatment involving aromatherapy. These essential scented oils are all-natural and very potent, and each individual aromatherapy scent can be used for remedy a specific problem.

For example, one of the most popular scented oils used in aromatherapy is Lavender. Lavender is used to reduce stress in the body, maintain calm and induce a relaxing state that even helps you fall into slumber more easily. On the opposite end of the aromatherapy spectrum, Peppermint is an energizing essential oil which promotes mental stamina, concentration and focus. There are numerous other essential oils which you can use for aromatherapy, such as Sweet Orange for anxiety, disappointment and stress. Cedarwood is used to help fight respiratory symptoms such as bronchitis and cough, and also for acne and dermatitis. It makes an excellent natural insect repellant. Many essential oils have an added pharmacologic benefit, such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antispasmodic, antifungal and antiseptic. Be sure to research thoroughly before using any essential oil. This is especially true for women who are pregnant-some essential oils are considered emmenagogues (herbs which increase the flow of blood to the pelvic area). Safe use of these oils in pregnancy has not been demonstrated.

There are several simple ways to use the art of Aromatherapy with essential oils to cure daily ailments. For example, the simplest way is by massaging diluted essential oils into your skin in order to spread the fragrance and reach your desired aromatherapy healing objective. Essential oils are very concentrated and strong; they must be mixed in a carrier oil or lotion before being put on the skin. Only a few drops (4-6) are to be used per cup of lotion or other oil. Another way to use aromatherapy is by diffusing these oils with an Aromatherapy Atomizer which is an electrical component that diffuses the essential oil smell throughout a select room. It works similar to a scented candle, but the essential oils are stronger which makes the Aromatherapy more efficient. It is not recommended that any essential oil be taken internally unless done under the direct supervision of trained licensed aromatherapy professionals. A common essential oil, eucalyptus, is extremely toxic when ingested. In addition, some essentials are hazardous to house pets, especially cats.

Aromatherapy is an all-natural holistic approach which uses scented oils to energize the mind, improve mood and promote relaxation. Discover what it can do for you by experimenting with different essential oils, and researching the art of Aromatherapy