What is Aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is a widely used term for a range of traditional therapies that use essential oils and other plant compounds for healing. Although there is still much research required to convince those that do not work with essential oils of their efficacy, scientific evidence of its effectiveness is growing.
Aromatherapy doesn't just smell nice, it is the infusion of aromatic molecules from aromatherapeutic grade essential oils which are introduced through the body systems for the treatment or prevention of disease. For physiological conditions, specific essential oils are used for their effect on various muscles, organs and their function as well as the oils' influence on hormones and the immune system in order to bring about a therapeutic result.
Stress, anxiety and other psychological conditions can be managed effectively by inducing relaxation, changing moods and soothing the emotional mind and body by acting directly on the nervous system. Aromatherapy is used by spiritual and energy healers working on the subtle body, in meditation and prayer for the vibrational effect of the essential oils. It is also widely practiced amongst traditional natural therapists who practice massage, reflexology, Chinese medicine and the like.
What evidence shows that aromatherapy is effective?
Research has been done into the effectiveness of some essential oils - especially the popular ones such as lavender, tea tree and peppermint. The anti-bacterial properties, and to some extent anti-viral properties, of these oils are now well-regarded and there are more studies being conducted to validate their outstanding healing capabilities. Each essential oil has its own blueprint!
Can essential oils treat serious illness?
A: Aromatherapy is not intended to be used in traumatic or emergency situations. However, there is some anecdotal evidence to suggest that essential oils can help with the emotional side of having a serious condition, even such an illness as cancer. Essential oils can certainly help to promote a better quality of life where serious illnesses are concerned. With their proper use, they can provide wound healing, improve skin problems and assist our body systems as well as the mind to get into a healthy balance; many essential oil formulas are effective in treating everyday ailments and infections. Always seek medical advice from a doctor before treating serious conditions with essential oils or any other complementary medicine.
See also Cautions and Contraindications
What is the power of Aroma with Essential Oils?
Certain aromas activate our sense of smell and influence our mood and emotions; they can remind us of events and help us to remember places, things, and people. Rosemary is often known as "Rosememory" and is great help when studying and recalling facts. Aromas can make our environment smell inviting, whether that be refreshing on a hot summer day with a citrus scent or cosy and warm with cloves, orange and berries, all to directly improve the air quality of our indoor environment. Some essential oils can clean and purify the air we breathe and even kill airbourne bacteria. Our advice is to never use fragrant oils, for they have no therapeutic value and they are full of synthetic, artificial and often toxic substances that can make you ill with nausea and headaches.