Aromatherapy Methods

Aromatherapy has been used as a healing art for centuries. According to Janice Cox in her book "Natural Beauty at Home," the ancient Egyptians used essential oils in medications, incense and perfume, either to heal or to create certain moods. In the early 20th century, René-Maurice Gattefossé, a French chemist, coined the term aromatherapy. You can use essential oils to heal certain conditions and to promote feelings of well-being. You should always consult with your doctor or a licensed health care professional before using any essential oil. Pregnant and breast-feeding women and people with severe allergies should avoid the use of essential oils

Massage

Massage with essential oils can provide benefits for your mind, body and spirit. An aromatherapy massage can boost your mood and leave you feeling more relaxed and uplifted. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, symptoms of depression may be alleviated through massage with certain essential oils such as lavender, basil and orange blossom. These oils are thought to stimulate certain parts of the brain, causing an increase in positive feelings. Massage with lavender oil has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of insomnia, stress and anxiety. According to the Massage and Natural Therapies Institute, you obtain benefits during aromatherapy massage because you absorb the essential oils into your skin and inhale the aroma.

Bath

You can use essential oils in a warm bath to promote specific moods. Lavender, orange blossom and chamomile oils can help to promote relaxation. According to UMMC, rosemary oil can promote stress relief and treat muscle aches and pains. You obtain benefits by using essential oils in the bath because they are absorbed into the skin as you inhale the scents. Use no more than 10 drops of your chosen essential oil in a tub full of warm water.

Aromatherapy Burner

Aromatherapy burners diffuse essential oils into the air, evoking specific moods. According to UMMC, breathing in essential oil molecules may cause the parts of your brain responsible for emotions and memories to be stimulated. You can promote relaxation with lavender or get a quick energy boost by using rosemary or peppermint oil. You only need to add a few drops of your chosen essential oil to a small amount of water in an aromatherapy burner.