Aroma oils, or essential oils, are extracts from the leaves, seeds, roots or flowers of a plant. These extracts are a pure form of the chemicals that give plants their scent. Aromatherapy is an alternative medicine practice where aroma oils are used to stimulate healing and relaxation. Although aromatherapy lacks clear scientific evidence to support its claims, many people find it helpful to use alongside other forms of conventional and alternative medicine.
Massage
Massage with aroma oils is one of the most common uses of aromatherapy at home and in professional settings. Aroma oils are mixed with a carrier oil such as olive or sweet almond oil, and then they are massaged in the skin. Some aroma oils, such as rosemary, marjoram and eucalyptus are believed to soothe aching joints and muscles. Other oils, including chamomile and lavender, have a scent that helps many people relax and feel calmer.
Room Fragrancing
Using aroma oils to scent a room is another common use. Room fragrancing is usually done with some type of diffuser, such as scented candles, heat diffusers or reed diffusers. Aroma oils can be used to fragrance your home and they are also used by nurses, midwives and physical therapists. Aromatherapy can be used as part of therapeutic massage, or to help a patient relax during a procedure or recovery. Some midwives use aroma oils, such as clary sage, myrrh and jasmine to speed up labor and ease pain.
Decongestant
Inhaling some aroma oils is helpful for easing the discomfort of nasal congestion and sinusitis. Use a few drops of aroma oil, such as eucalyptus or peppermint, in a bath, shower or sauna. Another method is to add the oil to a bowl of boiling water, cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam. You can also add oils to a humidifier to use in your room or a child's room during the night.
Disinfecting
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, some essential oils show antifungal and antibacterial properties. Use diluted tea tree or calendula oil on minor cuts and scrapes or as a face cleanser for acne.
Diluted tea tree, lemon, grapefruit and chamomile oil can all be used as household cleansers to clean and disinfect kitchen and bathroom surfaces. Citrus oils are good for cutting grease and polishing surfaces. A few drops of essential oil added to a dryer sheet at the end of the cycle makes the clothes and linens smell fresh and clean.
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