Aromatherapy is a healing art that can help to relieve a range of problems, from mental conditions such as stress, depression and anxiety to physical ailments such as congestion or muscle aches and pains. Essential oils are potent, concentrated plant oils used in the practice of aromatherapy. The use of essential oils goes back thousands of years, when the ancient Greeks and Egyptians used the oils in medicines and perfumes. You should always consult your doctor or a qualified aromatherapist before using any aromatherapy treatment, especially if you have a medical condition or allergies.
Massage Oils
Aromatherapy massage provides a dual benefit. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, during a massage with essential oils, your skin absorbs the healing qualities of the oils and you simultaneously inhale the aroma. Oils such as lavender, orange blossom and chamomile are thought to enhance relaxation and may help to alleviate some of the symptoms of anxiety and depression. Rosemary and peppermint oil can be stimulating and may provide relief for chronic headaches. Eucalyptus oil can help to clear congestion and relaxes minor muscle aches and pains. You can make a homemade massage oil using one or a combination of these oils. You may wish to experiment with a few blends to find one that suits you. As a rule of thumb, use 10-20 drops of your chosen essential oil in a half cup of carrier oil such as sunflower or grapeseed oil.
Bath
Using essential oils in the bath can be an extremely effective method of gaining the benefits of aromatherapy. A cool bath with invigorating oils at the start of your day can provide you with extra energy and vigor, while a warm bath with calming essential oils at the end of a long and stressful day can be incredibly relaxing. Fill up a tub with water before adding the oils. In the morning, you may want to try this invigorating blend when you have extra time to take a bath: Add three drops of rosemary, three drops of peppermint and two drops of lemon oil to a full bath. For a stress-relieving bath, add two drops of lavender, two drops of chamomile and two drops of bergamot essential oil.
Inhalation
You can use essential oils in aromatherapy burners, diffusers or vaporizers to benefit from their healing properties. If you suffer from congestion, try adding a few drops of peppermint or eucalyptus oil to a vaporizer to break up phlegm and soothe your cough. Use lemon oil in a vaporizer the next time you're sick--it may help to kill airborne bacteria. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, lavender oil may help to ease the symptoms of anxiety, depression and insomnia. The next time you feel the onset of these symptoms, try putting some lavender oil in an aromatherapy burner or use some in a diffuser.
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