Alternate Therapy - Aromatherapy

The use of essential oils (concentrated oils), extracted from a variety of plants, for bringing about changes in the mood or the body is known as "Aromatherapy". It is known that scent is very powerful, certain scents can bring memories while others can bring about certain physical and mental changes. The use of these essential oils or the scent from them is the essence of aromatherapy.

Essential oils are not perfumes nor are perfumes essential oils. There is no relation between aromatherapy and perfumes. Perfumes are blends of synthetic chemicals and sometimes essential oils. Essential oils and the scent of essential oils are powerful agents and an understanding of the safe and proper use of them in any manner is what practitioners of aromatherapy recommend.

Some Essential Oils Used In Aromatherapy And Their Benefits:

v Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus is used in aiding the respiratory system to function better by enhancing deep breathing. Direct application is done for muscle pains and aches.

v Frankincense: Is used in the treatment of genito-urinary and lung complaints, chronic diarrhea, ulcers, excessive menstruation and breast cysts. It is also used to cure hard-to-heal wounds, scars, boils, fungal infections, acne and skin infections.

v Jasmine: Jasmine is a good relaxant, it is intoxicating and warming. It is also supposed to be a great aphrodisiac. It has a long tradition in its use as a relaxing and supportive medication in childbirth. It also valued in skin care for aiding relief in sensitive, dry and irritating skin.

v Geranium: Relieves stress, nervous tension and in Post Menstrual Syndrome. It helps repair broken capillaries, fights eczema, cuts and burns. It is used in the preparation of many skin care products that effect dry and oily skins.

v Lavender: it is used in the treatment of various types of skin ailments, burns, stress related problems, insomnia, depression, abdominal cramps, respiratory problems, sprains and rheumatism.

v Patchouli: Helps in alleviating stress and tension related problems and addictions and has a beneficial effect on skins, insect bites etc.

v Rose: Good for nervous and stress related tensions, nausea, insomnia and headache. It can also be used against poor circulation, dry skin and broken capillaries.

v Peppermint: Conditions of asthma, colic, nausea, fevers, colds, cramps, flatulence, mental fatigue, headaches and fainting can be relieved through the use of peppermint.

v Rosemary Oil: It is effective in the relief of circulation problems, mental fatigue, as a pain reliever of the muscles and in the curing of respiratory infections.

v Sandalwood: Valued for its skin caring properties, it is also supposed to be a great aphrodisiac. It is a great relaxant and warming oil.

v Sweet Orange: Used by aroma therapists in the treatment of obesity, poor circulation, muscle tension, water retention, constipation and colds.

v Tea Tree: Is a strong anti-bacterial, anti-fungal disinfectant.

The Following Oils Should Be Avoided When Pregnant : Thyme, Sage, Rosemary, Rose, Myrrh, Marjoram, Lavender, Juniper, Jasmine, Fennel, Clary Sage, Cedarwood and Basil.

The Following Oils Should Be Avoided If Having Epilepsy : Rosemary, Sage, Hyssop, Fennel and Camphor.

Methods Of Using Aromas

1. Place a few drops of the required essential oil in a bowl of steaming water and breathe in the aroma for fifteen to thirty minutes. This method is great for providing relief of cold in the head and for clearing the sinuses.

2. Mix no more than 15 drops of your favorite oil for an ounce (30 ml.) of distilled water and use it as an revitalizing floral spray.

3. Place a few drops of the oil on a cloth and use it as a scarf or put it in your pillow case. Take away the cloth when you have had enough. Use especially when sleeping.

4. Use during a massage. You will get amazing results. Results are fast and spectacular in this method of usage.

5. Bath salts in aromatherapy are good and effective for relaxing.

Judicious use of aromatherapy, especially under the guidance of a certified aroma-therapist will work wonders for changing your moods and also in bringing about changes in your physical condition.

Aromatherapy is a form of alternate therapy and is not meant to substitute regular medication and its best use is in the changing of moods.