Aromatherapy: How Does It Work and Why Is It Good For You?

Aromatherapy is a practice of using essential oils in therapeutic ways. It is gaining more and more popularity among people of all ages because of its numerous benefits and easy ways to implement it into your day-to-day life. Aromatherapy has been around for centuries. People discovered that there is a way to use these natural scents and remedies to promote health and well-being, as well as help heal wounds and fight illnesses.

The scent from essential oils is inhaled and travels through the human body into the brain and nervous system. Then the essential oils molecules activate certain parts of your brain such as your amygdala which is responsible for emotional and physical responses to various stimuli. This way, aromatherapy targets specific areas in our body to react in one way or another, according to the purpose of the oil used.

Each different type of essential oils has its own unique benefits for our bodies. Some oils are used for its healing powers to support the immune system, restore health and battle diseases; others are used to help relax, get rid of headaches, enhance mood and reduce stress. With these essential oils and their great advantages, you can elevate your massage experience and improve your daily routines.

According to healthline.com, there are over 90 different types of oils, and each of them has its own benefits and effects. Some of the most commonly used oils are peppermint, lavender, tea tree, sandalwood, lemon, and others. They are usually diluted in water, because pure oils are very potent to be used through a diffuser or an aroma stick. Additionally, it may be used in body oils and lotions to be absorbed through skin in low volumes.

Few of the oils may have some negative effects like allergic reactions in teenagers, little children, pregnant women and people with pre-existing hormonal imbalances. Before using essential oils, make sure to research the company that produces them, read the label, and consult a specialist to decide which oil would be best for you.

References

Hopkins Medicine. (2021, August 8). Aromatherapy: Do essential oils really work? Aromatherapy: Do Essential Oils Really Work? | Johns Hopkins Medicine. Retrieved January 25, 2023, from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/aromatherapy-do-essential-oils-really-work

West, H. (2019, September 30). What are essential oils, and do they work? Healthline. Retrieved January 25, 2023, from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/what-are-essential-oils#:~:text=There%20are%20over%2090%20commonly,peppermint%2C%20lavender%2C%20and%20sandalwood.

By Alina Myakota