Aromatherapy and Benefits

Aromatherapy is the holistic healing practice of using essential oils to promote healing and to obtain specific moods. According to Janice Cox in her book "Natural Beauty at Home," aromatherapy has been practiced since ancient Egyptian times, when essential oils were used in perfumes, medicines and incense. Most essential oils are relatively inexpensive and can be purchased in many drugstores and health stores. Consult a physician or a qualified aromatherapist before using essential oils if you have a medical condition or allergies.

Relaxation

Perhaps the most popular use for essential oils in aromatherapy is to promote feelings of relaxation and stress relief. According to naturopath Dr. Linda Page in her book "Healthy Healing: A Guide to Self-Healing for Everyone," some of the most effective essential oils for relaxation include lavender, marjoram, chamomile, sandalwood and clary sage. You can use these essential oils in a diffuser or aromatherapy burner or add a few drops to a warm bath to ease stress and anxiety and to induce sleep and relieve insomnia. You can add a few drops of any of these essential oils to 1/2 cup of a carrier oil such as sunflower oil to make a soothing, calming massage oil.

Mental Clarity

Essential oils can help to increase feelings of alertness and enhance mental clarity and concentration abilities, particularly during times of stress and fatigue. According to Page, essential oils that you can use for stimulation and extra energy include cypress, ginger, lemon, rosemary and peppermint. You can inhale these essential oils directly from the bottle whenever you need revitalization. Keep a bottle in your desk drawer at work or in your purse to fight afternoon energy slumps. Use a few drops in an aromatherapy diffuser at home for an uplifted mood on days when you feel low or lackluster.

Pain Relief

Many essential oils have natural pain-relieving properties. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, lavender is an essential oil that is especially beneficial in the treatment of chronic pain. It can help to alleviate muscle spasms, sprains, strains, headaches and cramps. You can safely apply undiluted lavender essential oil to painful areas, however, you may wish to mix a few drops with a tablespoon of carrier oil like grape-seed oil for ease of application. You can also try eucalyptus or peppermint essential oil if you suffer from arthritis, muscle tension or chronic pain. Mix a few drops of eucalyptus and peppermint essential oils into 1/2 cup of carrier oil such as almond or grape-seed oil. Massage into affected areas using circular motions two to three times daily for best results.