Aromatherapy and Losing Weight

How Essential Oils Make "Scents"

Lea Barton
Obesity has become an epidemic in the United States, and the problem shows no signs of slowing down. No one wakes up one day and says to themselves, "Gee, I'd like to be obese": obesity develops as a result of biological and lifestyle issues. People who are overweight are generally not happy with the extra pounds, but they struggle to control eating habits, exercise, and weight loss. Diets and exercise only work so much for some people; this is where aromatherapy may become a solution, or at least part of the solution.

Some essential oils and the foods related to them have reputations for helping curb eating impulses. Fennel, a plant like celery, that tastes a bit like licorice, can help with weight control and improved digestion. Smelling fennel essential oil can work as well, to help control appetite. in addition, bergamot is another essential oil with appetite-suppresant properties. When using essential oils, a few drops in a bath, or cooked slowly in a pot of water on the stove, can help diffuse the oil and make the scent float throughout the house. By spreading the scent all around, you surround yourself with support.

In addition, self-esteem can be a problem for people struggling with weight issues. Consider adding jasmine, or even peppermint, to boost your spirits and help you to feel better overall. Some oils, like tea tree oil, may not smell good initially, but over time they can help to act as a natural anti-biotic or anti-fungal, and can make you connect their scent to overall health and improvement. Essential oils for aromatherapy give you that added comfort--and can make a difference.

Citrus scents, like lemon balm and orange, as well as flower scents including lavendar help to lift mood as well. Depression and fatigue plague many people with weight problems, so adding these aromatherapy oils can make sense.

Immersing yourself in a bath with five to ten drops of a chosen oil is one of the best ways to provide self-care. the water makes you feel weightless, takes pressure off joints, and helps you to relax. in addition, some oils can be absorbed through the skin and the scent then floats with you, helping to improve mood and control.

Considering aromatherapy for weight control and obesity makes "scents." you can find a variety of essential oils to help you to focus, bring your attention to eating patterns, provide important self-care, and to give yourself the mental space to just be, and to find a way to manage cravings, disruptions, and pbstacles as you work toward better health, increased energy, and better self-image.

Published by Lea Barton

Published in newspapers, magazines, newsletters, on websites, and in academic reference guides since 1986, I have more than 2,000 articles, reviews, and columns as part of my portfolio.  View profile

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