In modern realities, we all have to deal with stressful situations, some of which we cannot always influence. At such moments, the impact of external stimuli on our brain and body as a whole is colossal: the nervous system gradually begins to malfunction. There are many ways to get out of this state. One of them is aromatherapy, which has existed for as long as a reasonable person because already in ancient times people began to notice the effects of aromas.
Let’s talk about how aromatherapy affects our health today. Let’s dive in!
The effect of aromatherapy on the human body
Essential oils have an impact on the physical and psychological state of a person. Today it is often used in massage practices. So, visiting a full body massage, you will see that the massage therapist uses oils both for the body and for simple inhalation in the parlor. Oils along with massage have an amazing effect. The smells of oils can speed up metabolism, improve skin condition, relieve stress, reduce hunger, and increase libido.
So, essential oils of bergamot, chamomile, lavender, lemon, orange, patchouli, and vanilla are effective for reducing stress. Bergamot and basil, sage, frankincense, ginger, grapefruit, jasmine, lemon, patchouli, peppermint, rosemary, and sandalwood help relieve fatigue. Oils that stimulate sexual desire include sage, jasmine, patchouli, rose, sandalwood, vanilla, ylag ylang.
Aromatherapy is also used as a treatment and prevention of some common diseases. For example, in acute respiratory diseases, essential oils of mint, eucalyptus, cloves, and juniper are used.
Each smell is affected by our brain in different ways. We think you yourself have noticed that the aroma of lavender improves sleep and reduces the level of irritability. Essential oils based on citrus fruits are responsible for the tonic effect and increased efficiency and concentration. Those who feel anxious should look into the mint extract. But geranium will help get rid of headaches.
How to use aroma oils?
Essential oils can be used individually or together. Just don’t forget about the allergic reaction of the body (therefore, it is better to consult a specialist before buying) and the incompatibility of some smells. In this case, it is better to trust ready-made mixtures of oils that have already been selected by specialists for a specific task.
Essential oils can be applied to the wrists, earlobes, and collarbones. You can also get an aroma lamp that will fill the room (previously ventilated) with a certain aroma. Aroma lamps, by the way, are not only a means of aromatherapy but also a decor item. To date, the most popular and easy-to-use are ceramic aroma lamps. They are a small vase with a hollow base where a candle is placed, and a small bowl for water and essential oils. A lit candle heats the mixture, spreading odors in the room. Experts advise washing the aroma lamp before changing the essential oil.
Sprays that can be applied to bed linen also have the same function.
Moreover, you can make inhalations with aroma oils. Inhalations are medical procedures that are carried out by inhaling gas, steam, or smoke. Most often, inhalations are used for diseases of the respiratory system. With the right choice of essential oils, inhalation therapy is safe and can be used for children of all ages. Inhalation of healing vapors does not dry or irritate the nasal mucosa, and is not addictive. When inhaled, there is a direct effect on the mucous membrane of the respiratory system, which accelerates the therapeutic effect.
What do experts say about aromatherapy?
Many experts speak positively about aromatherapy. Essential oils can have a positive effect not only on the health of body systems and hormonal levels, but also on the skin, and hair, and at the same time restore the psyche.
Essential oils are substances that consist of 500-3500 components (for comparison, chemical preparations contain 1-2 useful biological substances). The whole structure of these components in the process of evolution was created by the plants in order to protect themselves from burns, viruses, and fungal diseases, as well as to stimulate the immune system and attract insects for reproduction. That is, essential oils are concentrated protective and strengthening mechanisms of nature, their squeeze, experts say.
Contraindications to the use of aroma oils
People with severe asthma or other respiratory problems, allergies, and pregnant women should use aromatherapy with caution and use it only in the presence of a specialist and with the consent of the attending physician.
Some essential oils, which contain a large number of phenols (for example, cinnamon), can cause local skin irritation, so their application and use near the eyes are contraindicated.
Don’t take essential oils internally! Also, observe certain safety precautions since some essential oils are highly flammable.
Before use, you need to make sure that you don’t have an individual intolerance.
