Healing with Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy has been a healing art form that dates back to Ancient Egypt. In her book, "Natural Beauty at Home," Janice Cox describes the use of aromatherapy by the Ancient Greeks, Babylonians and Romans to heal certain conditions in the form of incense, essential oils and perfumes. A variety of conditions can be treated with aromatherapy; however, it is generally considered to be most effective for stress relief and the alleviation of symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Step 1

Choose your preferred essential oil and method of use. Lavender, orange blossom, chamomile, and basil are all excellent choices for stress relief and alleviation of some of the symptoms of anxiety and depression. These essential oils can be used in either an essential oil diffuser, bath or homemade massage oil. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that lavender has a calming, relaxing effect; orange blossom and basil are useful for the relief of depression; and Roman chamomile is popularly used for its anti-anxiety properties.

Step 2

Fill your oil diffuser with water and several drops of your selected essential oil, if you chose to use a diffuser. If you prefer, you can use a few drops of the chosen essential oil in a warm bath for the same results. You may wish to prepare a relaxing atmosphere in advance by dimming the lights, lighting some candles or playing some calming music. Using an eye bag or pillow can make the experience more relaxing by blocking out light and providing light pressure on the eye area. Allow yourself to relax and inhale the aroma from the essential oil. Inhalation of the aroma from essential oils can have a positive effect on the areas of the brain that control moods and emotions.

Step 3

Make your own aromatherapy massage oil. Aromatherapy massage provides a dual benefit in that the aroma is inhaled and the skin absorbs the oils. In "Natural Beauty at Home," Janice Cox provides a recipe to make a homemade, relaxing massage oil: Choose a carrier oil, such as sunflower, almond or sesame oil, and add a drop or two of your preferred essential oil. If you have extra, you can store this oil in a glass jar, since essential oils can react with plastic. Be sure to keep it away from sunlight or heat and use within a week.