Most of us, at one time or another have heard about Aromatherapy. It’s no wonder since Aromatherapy bath, body and home products are one the fastest growing industries today. But what is Aromatherapy? Most people think that Aromatherapy is only used in a fragrant massage, scented lotion or room spray. But the art of Aromatherapy is not only fun, but a healthy addition to any home or office. Properly used, Essential oils and Aromatherapy are not only pleasant smelling, but can create a wonderful physical, spiritual and emotional balance within each person. Throughout history, aromatic plants have been used in medicine, cosmetic care, spiritual practices and ritual ceremonies. There are references to aromatic unguents creams, salves and extractions in our oldest texts, both religious and scientific. These aromatic waxes and unguents were used in Religious ceremonies, to anoint the body before burial, to heal wounds and to perfume the body. But the true distillation of essential oil wasn’t invented until around the 10th century in Persia. But what are Essential oils? By definition, essential oils are the volatile, hydrophobic, highly concentrated extracts from fruits, seeds, roots and flowers of plants. Most essential oils are obtained through distillation, although some, like orange lemon and lime, are cold pressed from the peel of the fruit. Because they are hydrophobic, essential oils are insoluble in water. It is very simple and beneficial to live an aromatherapy-based life. Making simple changes such as purchasing pure essential oils instead of synthetic fragrances or using natural ingredient body products rather than mineral oil-based products can have a profound impact on our personal wellbeing. As a general rule, most oils are relatively inexpensive and, when used properly, safe for use around most anyone. But where to begin. Many times new users think that it’s difficult to get started using essential oils or Aromatherapy, or become frustrated with the lack of safety information. As a general rule, it is easiest to incorporate essential oils into your life in the following ways: Diffusion: Aromatherapy diffusers offer a very safe and easy method of bringing essential oils into your home or office. Diffusion is one of the easiest and most effective ways to add Essential oils to your environment. Nebulizing diffusers, which disperse the essential oils into 18
the air without any additives, are the most efficient way to diffuse essential oils, and use no heat. Diffusers can be used anytime you need to freshen or clean the air, or just for a pick-meup. Inhalation: By far the safest, and simplest application of essential oils is simply to stop and inhale them. A drop or two of your favorite oil can be added to a tissue, cotton pad, or aromatherapy jewelry so that it is available to you anytime and anyplace. Not just for uplifting, but great for cold and flu season as well, since inhalation of essential oils is just as effective as a topical application for helping to boost the immune system and help keep the germs at bay. Massage: Adding Essential oils to a regular massage not only smells great, but provides you with the additional therapeutic benefits of the oil. Certain essential oils like Marjoram and Eucalyptus are excellent in deep tissue massage, as they can assist in helping relax tight muscles. Oils like Lavender and Sweet Orange are wonderful for relaxing and uplifting the spirits. Baths: Aromatic Baths are a wonderfully luxurious way to relax and pamper yourself after a long day. When used in a bath, essential oils must be mixed with an emulsifier like milk, honey or coconut oil. Simply adding 6-8 drops of essential oil to a cup of milk and then to the bath provides a wonderful boost to our respiratory system, eases stress and nervous tension, aids with insomnia and eases menstrual pain and muscle ache. Lavender, Chamomile and Spearmint are wonderful oils to add to a bath for relaxation, too soothe jangled nerves, and provide a sense of peace and happiness. It is of utmost importance that you educate yourself before getting started with essential oils. Although they are generally recognized as safe when used appropriately, certain oils can also be very irritating or sensitizing to the skin, and must be used with caution. Unless under the care of a qualified Medical Professional, essential oils should never be taken internally. Take the time to learn about essential oils and bring them into your life, and you too will see that Aromatherapy just makes Scents! by Suzy Woollam The Scenter of Town
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