Aromatherapy Essentials

 

Have you ever noticed how the scents of certain flowers evoke certain emotions? Does the aroma of a favourite family recipe conjure warm memories of childhood? The powerful feelings associated with these phenomena illustrate the principle of aromatherapy.

 

The science of Aromatherapy uses essential oils, extracted from aromatic plant sources, to treat and balance mind, body and spirit. The scents from these oils are thought to activate nerve cells in the nasal cavity, which then stimulate the limbic system, the region of the brain associated with emotions and memory. Of all the human senses, the sense of smell has the greatest capacity to affect our emotions.

The effects of aromatherapy have been known for more than two millennia. The earliest documented incident involving aromatherapy occurred when Cleopatra soaked the sails of her ship with rose oil in a bid to seduce Marc Anthony. Today, the use of essential oils for therapeutic purposes is growing rapidly. Many corporations have found that introducing certain aromas into the workplace air system can have a beneficial effect on their employees.

 

 

Chamomile

Has been used for over 300 years to help stress-related complaints by calming the mind and body. It is also believed to stabilize emotions.

Eucalyptus

Often used for sore muscles and sinus congestion, it is also regularly used in steam baths to fight viral infections.

Ginseng

A most valued, revered and legendary medicinal plant known for its revitalizing properties.

Grapefruit

Psychologically it is an antidepressant and is emotionally uplifting.

Jasmine

It has been nicknamed the “Queen of the Night” for its seductive fragrance.

Lavender

A widely used aromatherapy oil that has been clinically evaluated for its relaxing effects on brain waves that in turn reduce stress. The oil is often used to aid in the healing of skin cells and is often used on burns and to help treat stretch marks.

Patchouli

The aroma is believed to reduce appetite and relieve headaches. It is also well known as an aphrodisiac.

Peppermint

Peppermint is often used to aid in digestion. The scent is energizing and has the ability to improve concentration and mental acuity.

Rose

Rose is often used to help relieve a variety of female problems including menstrual cramps and PMS symptoms. This aroma is used as an aphrodisiac, antidepressant, sedative and stress reliever.

Rosemary

Is believed to improve memory. In massage oil, rosemary is used to stimulate the nervous system to improve energy levels.

Sandalwood

Used in Ayurvedic medicine to sedate the nervous system, relieve anxiety and insomnia.

Tea Tree

This essential oil is an all-purpose antiseptic and effective against bacteria, fungi and viruses.

Vanilla

Vanilla produces emotional feelings of happiness and it can be used as an aphrodisiac depending on its blending with other oils.

Ylang Ylang

Relaxing oil for both mind and body and is known for its aphrodisiac properties. It can stimulate or relax the brain depending on what is needed.

Spa Sensations makes no claims regarding the effectiveness of essential oils. This information is taken from well-known printed sources. For more information on essential oils, visit your local library, book store or internet sources.