Aromatherapy uses fragrant oils to boost health and well-being. Scents stimulate the part of the brain that controls emotion and can help ease pain, reduce anxiety, sleep better and feel rejuvenated.
Be careful when purchasing products that claim to be aromatherapy — fragrance or perfume oil (usually listed as such on the ingredient label) is not the same thing. Choose natural products that are bottled in dark-colored glass to protect the quality of the oil.
What are essential oils?
Essential oils are the fragrant plant compounds that give flowers, herbs and trees their characteristic scent. They can be extracted from leaves, bark and roots, and then distilled or cold pressed to produce the oil.
They can have a variety of purported health benefits, including boosting mood, reducing pain and promoting sleep or relaxation. They are also known for their antibacterial, antiviral, fungicidal and insecticidal properties.
They can be used topically or inhaled, but because they’re so powerful, you need to add them to a carrier oil such as jojoba, coconut or almond oil. Using them in concentrated form (more than 1 percent) can cause skin irritation. Be sure to check the label, as many products may contain synthetic fragrances instead of pure oil. And always choose a product that is stored in dark glass, as sunlight can degrade the oil. Seek guidance from an integrative medicine expert if you want to use these products to support your health and well-being.
How do I use essential oils?
The best way to use essential oils in aromatherapy is to apply them topically or inhale them. Some people also add them to bath water, or mix them with a carrier oil to make body spritzers or natural perfumes.
Before using any of these methods, it’s a good idea to speak with your doctor. As with any herbal treatment, some oils may cause a reaction in certain individuals.
Choose a few different types of essential oils and experiment with them. Your goal will influence which ones you choose — for example, lavender can calm anxiety and promote sleep; peppermint relieves headaches; and cypress eases tension. Always buy high-quality oils and read the label to be sure they’re real. Look for the Latin name of the plant, its country of origin and any information on purity or other ingredients added to the oil. In general, essential oils should be stored in dark glass, as sunlight can fade their color.
What are the benefits of aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is an alternative treatment that can relieve stress, promote sleep and boost your mood. It can be used alone or in combination with other natural treatments.
The theory behind aromatherapy is that when you smell a scent, it triggers receptors in the nose that communicate with parts of the brain that control emotions and memories. Aromatherapy can also stimulate blood circulation, help relax muscles and promote healing.
Inhaling essential oils may help with insomnia, depression and headaches. It can also improve breathing for people with asthma and reduce nausea from chemotherapy or pregnancy-related sickness.
It is important to note that the use of essential oils is not a substitute for medical treatment. Always consult a qualified aromatherapist before starting any new treatment, especially for serious ailments. Additionally, it is important to know if you have any sensitivity to certain oils, as some can cause a reaction on the skin or ingestion. It is also recommended to avoid direct contact with the eyes, as this can irritate the eyes.
