Aromatherapy & Health

Aromatic plants have been used for centuries as agents of healing due to their powerful effect on the immune system as well as their potential in treating more serious problems. Oils are extracted from herbs and flowers that are 75 to 100 times more concentrated than the dried plants they came from. Healing nutrients are carried directly to your body by the molecules contained in aromatherapy oils, reaching every cell of the body in just 20 minutes.

Aromatherapy and Massage

Healing results can be obtained from aromatherapy, also known as essential oil therapy, by inhalation or the direct application of essential oils to the skin through massage or bath oil. Because they are so highly concentrated, they must always be diluted prior to applying them to the skin. Even one drop can cause irritation, so dilute 15 drops into 4 oz. of your favorite massage oil or bath water.

Aromatherapy and Inhalation

Inhaling therapeutic aromas into the lungs by diffusion or steam inhalation causes the essential oil molecules to attach to the oxygen molecules, allowing them to enter the bloodstream quickly and flow through the body with their healing action. Five to 10 minutes of inhaling or diffusing is long enough to deliver a therapeutic dose. If used in a vaporizer, essential oils can help expel heavy mucous from the lungs and bronchial tubes.

Boosts the Immune System

Aromatherapy and essential oils stimulate the immune system by invigorating white blood cells, normalizing body chemistry and increasing the activity of T-cells and other antibodies. Oils of lemon, peppermint, rosemary and thyme are especially effective at perking up the immune system. They are natural antioxidants that destroy free radicals, keeping disease and illness away.

Detoxification and Cleansing

The detoxification and cleansing properties of aromatherapy are powerful as well. Essential oils can stimulate circulation, deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues and accelerate the removal of waste from the body, which are all necessary for optimal health. Purifying and normalizing the blood, improving lymphatic system drainage and releasing excess fluids eliminates many harmful toxins and residues.

Beneficial to Alzheimer's Patients

Therapeutic essential oils can cross the blood/brain barrier, giving hope to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's patients where drugs have so far been unsuccessful. Scents such as lavender and lemon balm seem to stimulate the area of the brain responsible for memories and also tend to calm patients by reducing anxiety, aggravation and depression. The scents of sandalwood and frankincense boost oxygenation to the limbic system of the brain.

Warning

Care should always be taken when using herbs and essential oils for aromatherapy. Generally, the use of herbs is considered to be safe, but side effects and interactions with prescription medications have occurred. Always consult with your health care professional.