The Best Aromatherapy Products

The Best Aromatherapy Products
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Aromatherapy utilizes essential oils, which are extracted from plants and trees and used for holistic medicinal purposes. Like other forms of complementary and alternative medicine, aromatherapy focuses on treating the body as a whole and not just one particular symptom. Aromatherapy products are generally applied externally or inhaled to receive benefits. Some aromatherapy products are well known for their particular uses.

Chamomile

Chamomile originated in Morocco and Egypt, with the most common form being Roman chamomile. According to "Secrets of Youth and Beauty," chamomile helps with PMS, burns, skin conditions, headaches and digestive problems. Chamomile is often used in the form of herbal tea.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus comes from a tree that originated in Tasmania and is now also found in Mediterranean countries and North Africa. According to Medical News Today, eucalyptus is commonly combined with peppermint to help with respiratory problems associated with colds or the flu. Some over-the-counter cold medications have eucalyptus as an ingredient.

Ylang-Ylang

Ylang-ylang is extracted from a tree located throughout tropical Asia and Tahiti. According to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, ylang-ylang works as an antidepressant, promotes relaxation and reduces muscle tension. Ylang-ylang is often inhaled or applied in the form of lotion.

Clove

Clove oil originates from an evergreen tree in Mauritius and is now also found in Madagascar, Tanzania and the Caribbean islands. According to Medical News Today clove oil is used as a topical analgesic for toothaches, helps with nausea or vomiting, is an antispasmodic and helps prevent gas. Clove can also be used as an antiseptic for cleaning.

Lavender

Lavender comes from a plant that can be found in Persia, France and the Mediterranean. According to "Secrets of Youth and Beauty," lavender helps to heal burns and wounds, is an anti-inflammatory agent and has a sedative effect on nervousness and anxiety. Lavender can be added to a bath, added to a perfume or inhaled.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil originates in Australia and is now commonly found in New South Wales. According to Medical News Today, Tea tree oil has antimicrobial, antiseptic and disinfecting qualities. Tea tree oil can be used as a mouthwash or carried with you to treat cuts and burns.

Peppermint

Peppermint can be found in Europe, the United States, Japan and Chile. According to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, peppermint can be used to treat headaches, muscle aches and stomach problems. Peppermint is commonly used in cooking.

Rose

The rose originated in the Orient, but can now be found almost anywhere. According to "Secrets of Youth and Beauty," rose oil helps with PMS, anorexia, respiratory problems, insomnia and skin problems. Rose oil can be added to perfumes and inhaled.

References

Article reviewed by GlennK Last updated on: May 28, 2010

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