Aromatherapy provides a natural and noninvasive means of promoting the health of a person's body, mind and spirit. The correct use of essential oils will help a person's body regulate, balance, maintain and heal itself, according to the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy. As an art and science, aromatherapy allows people to explore the physiological, psychological and spiritual realm of the body and how it reacts to various aromatic essential oils.
Choosing Essential Oils
To experience the best effects of aromatherapy, purchase high-quality essential oils. Do not purchase oils from providers or carriers who simply claim to provide a quality product, who sell the product a lot cheaper than other providers, who sell all essential oils for the same price or state their product has a therapeutic grade. Buy essential oils from suppliers that provide you with details of the contents in the oil on the label, cost about the same as other suppliers and provide the Latin botanical name on the label, advises the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy.
Effects of Various Essential Oils
Each essential oil affects the mind and body in a different way. If you are looking for relaxation, try ylang ylang, geranium, lavender, lemon, clary sage or Roman chamomile, according to the NAHA. For muscle aches or tension, try pepperment, ylang ylang, clary sage or Roman chamomile. You can find essential oils that will help improve your digestion, boost your immune system, help heal wounds, balance hormones or fight fungal infections. A professional aromatherapist can help you determine the best combination of essential oils for your ailments.
Methods of Application
Essential oils can either be absorbed through the skin or inhaled through the nose. Massages, compresses and baths allow the aromatic molecules of the essential oils to seep through the skin and into the bloodstream, according to the International Federation of Aromatherapists. To deliver the aromatic molecules of the essential oils to the limbic system of the brain, which controls emotions and memories, you can directly inhale the essential oil, spray diluted essential oil on materials or disperse the essential oil aroma around the room using heat to evaporate the oil.
Dilution
Unless under the direct supervision of a professional, dilute all essential oils. Common substances or bases used to dilute them include water, vegetable oils, salts, unscented and natural creams, rubbing alcohol, coconut butter, shea butter or a vegetable wax such as jojoba, according to the NAHA. Quality essential oils contain labels with directions specifying the precise dilution percentage for the various methods of aromatherapy.
Precautions
Unless advised by a medical professional under strict supervision, essential oils should not be ingested, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Anyone with health conditions such as asthma, heart problems, certain cancers or pregnancy should avoid certain essential oils. If you suffer from a medical condition or take medications, always consult a medical professional prior to using essential oils. Some rare side effects include rash, headache, liver damage, nerve damage and harm to an unborn child. Avoid using essential oils near an open flame due to their flammability.
References
- National Association For Holistic Aromatherapy: What Is Aromatherapy?
- University of Maryland Medical Canter: Aromatherapy
- National Association For Holistic Aromatherapy: Quality And Essential Oils
- National Association For Holistic Aromatherapy: Top 10 Essential Oils
- International Federation Of Aromatherapists: What Is Aromatherapy
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