Practical Aromatherpy

The practice of aromatherapy has been used for centuries to reduce the symptoms of stress and to enhance one’s ability to energize or relax.

Proper use of essential oils may assist in balancing your emotions and may even enhance your overall e3motional outlook.

How does it work? Aromatherapy uses essentials oil. These are natural oils that are generally distilled from the leaves, stems, flowers, bark, roots, or other elements of a plant. These oils contain natural chemicals that work in synergy together. Inhaling these naturally occurring synergistic chemicals provide triggers to our brain. These triggers affect our emotions.

How do I use them? Because essential oils are highly concentrated, one should never apply them directly to skin. Common applications for aromatherapy include: candles, room sprays, diffusers, incense and use in bath and body products.

Candles are available in many shapes, styles and sizes. There are now even wickless candles and aroma wax melts for those that aren’t fond of traditional flame candles. One recommendation is to use aromatherapy candles made with soy wax. Soy is known for its cleaner burn and increased scent throw.

Room and linen sprays are an effective way to experience the benefits of aromatherapy. Used on bedding, it can be a particularly effective aid to induce sleep.

Bath products containing essential oils are nice because the fragrance goes with you throughout the day. You can use essential oil infused soaps and bath salts. Lotions are a great way to spread scent on your body as well.

Diffusers and incense are another way of using essential oils to scent the air around you. Incense comes in may different forms, including sticks, cones, powder, charcoal and others. Charcoal incense doesn’t smoke as much as traditional types in incense. Diffusers are rapidly growing in popularity and are readily available, also in several different styles.

However you choose to implement aromatherapy into your life, be sure to research the particular benefits of an oil before using it. In other words, don’t use it simply because it smells good. That’s what cologne is. Essential oils have specific benefits that go along with them.; Similarly, don’t use an oil with the benefit you are looking for if the smell doesn’t agree with your or evokes negative memories.

Where do I find them? There are many online retailers that sell essential oils, but make sure that you find a reputable company that uses quality oils. Many health food stores also carry essential oils.

Which oils should I use? There are hundreds of oils and thousands of blends. Only by experimenting will you be able to determine which oils work best for you. I have made a list of several easily found oils and their suggested benefit.

Lavender: Antidepressant, calming, balancing. Clary Sage: Relaxing, inspiring, revitalizing. Jasmine: Antidepressant, aphrodisiac. Bergamot: Refreshing. Sandalwood: Calming, balancing, uplifting. Eucalyptus: Anti-inflammatory, stimulant. Tea Tree: Antiseptic, insecticide, stimulant. Basil: antiseptic, uplifting, stimulating. Geranium: Comforting, healing. Ylang Ylang: Relaxing, stimulating.

Remember that aromatherapy is not meant to treat any kind of medical condition but to compliment medical treatment by aiding in the emotional well being of the patient. While some oils have antiseptic qualities, it is always important to seek medical advice in the event of an injury. Please see your doctor is you have health concerns.

If you are pregnant, please make sure that any essential oil or blend you use is safe. Check with a qualified aromatherapy practitioner in your area.

With so many different ways to use it, aromatherapy is an easy way to enhance your moods. Have fun experimenting with the different applications and oils and experience the benefits for yourself.

Always remember to pamper yourself…you deserve it!!!