Aromatherapy is the modern term for using the extracted essences of aromatic plants to enhance physical health, mental function and emotional well being. These natural botanical essences, known as essential oils, affect the human brain's limbic system, which controls emotion, behavior and long-term memory. Many fragrances also impact the adrenal cortex. The four main variations of aromatherapy include direct inhalation, diffusion in the air, diffusion through water, and direct application by massage.
Direct Inhalation
The simplest method of aromatherapy is to inhale the scent of essential oils straight from the bottle. The olfactory links with the limbic system trigger immediate psychological and physiological effects, depending on the oils used. These effects may either stimulate or sedate body systems or organs. Contact with nasal mucosa and the alveoli in the lungs gives fast access to the bloodstream, contributing to the physiological effects.
Direct inhalation is particularly useful for respiratory symptoms. A convenient alternative to inhaling from the bottle is to moisten a tissue with several drops of the desired oils.
Diffusion in the Air
Diffusion of essential oils in the air is generally preferred to direct inhalation for several reasons. This more subtle method allows you greater control of the strength and combination of the fragrances you select. It also allows you to adjust the elements during the session in response to the effects on your body, mind and mood. The effects of inhalation through diffusion are less jarring than direct inhalation.
Special essential oil diffusers with glass nebulizers are readily available through aromatherapy retailers. You may also simply mix a few drops of your oils with a cup of water and spray the room using a common spray bottle. Another method is to add a drop or two to the melted wax of a burning candle, taking care not to expose flammable oil directly to the flame.
When relying on air diffusion, you should leave the room for several minutes before returning. This will help you to accurately assess the strength of the fragrance.
Diffusion through Water
You may use essential oils effectively by adding 3-4 drops to warm baths or jacuzzi sessions. An alternative is to add the drops to a facecloth or sponge at the end of a shower, and to rub it briskly over your body as you continue standing under the running water. Breathe in the aromatic steam deeply.
Another alternative is to apply the essential oils locally by adding 2-3 drops to a bowl of hot water and soaking your hands or feet for 10-15 minutes. Again, breathe in the fragrances deeply.
Massage
Massage using essential oils is a highly effective aromatherapy method because it works in several ways at the same time. Your skin absorbs the essential oils and you also breathe them in. Additionally, you experience the physical therapy of the massage itself.
Aromatherapy massage restores and nourishes the skin, affects the muscles and nerves, and increases blood and lymph flow, in addition to the olfactory benefits of the other aromatherapy methods.
Use 3-5 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of a base oil. Almond, hazelnut, soy and peanut oil are among the most popular choices, with dozens of vegetable-based options also available. You may massage particular areas of your body, or experience a professional full-body massage at a spa or aromatherapy office.
References
- "The Aromatherapy Encyclopedia: A Concise Guide to over 385 Plant Oils"; Carol Schiller and David Schiller; 2008
- "The Aromatherapy Bible: The Definitive Guide to Using Essential Oils"; Gill Farrer-Halls; 2005
- "Clinical Aromatherapy: Essential Oils in Practice"; Jane Buckle; 2003
- The Practice of Aromatherapy: A Classic Compendium of Plant Medicines and Their Healing Properties"; Jean Valnet, M.D.; 1982
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