Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils extracted from plants with the aim of promoting health, relaxation and feelings of well being. Essential oils contain the essence of the plant and have been used for centuries for therapeutic purposes. It should be noted however, that essential oils should never be used as a substitute for medical diagnosis or medical care.
How Essential Oils are Made and Used
All parts of the plant are used in the making of essential oils and the oils are usually extracted by steam distillation. Citrus oils are extracted by expression, literally pressing the oil from the fruit and peel. The oils are considered to have varying properties, including analgesic, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties which are considered by aromatherapists to aid healing and relaxation.
The most effective way of experiencing aromatherapy is through massage, which has several benefits; you receive the soothing touch of massage, the oils are absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin, and into the brain via the sense of smell. Other methods of using essential oils include inhalation, vaporization, adding to baths, and using in hot or cold compresses.
Research
Although there is a great deal of anecdotal evidence that aromatherapy is effective, little scientific research has been done. Says AlternativeMedicineFirst.com: “There exist very few controlled studies to prove the effectiveness or safety of aromatherapy, but some uses of aromatherapy are simply accepted.” However, some research has proved positive. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, "people with rheumatoid arthritis, cancer and headaches require fewer pain medications when they use aromatherapy.”
Uses
Aromatherapists believe that many physical conditions can be eased by the use of essential oils. Aromatherapy massage is deeply relaxing, and this in itself helps to relieve the stress and tension created by long term illness and medical conditions.
Many minor ailments can also be eased by aromatherapy, including the symptoms of coughs and colds, skin problems, overworked and strained muscles and the digestive system.
Precautions
Essential oils are extremely powerful and should only be used neat under the guidance of a qualified aromatherapist. If you are pregnant, suffer from epilepsy or diabetes, have sensitive skin or any other long term medical condition, it is best to seek medical advice before using aromatherapy.
History
It is thought that essential oils have been used since the times of the Ancient Egyptians for therapeutic, religious and spiritual practices. However, the term aromatherapy was first used by the French perfumier Rene Gattefosse, who used pure lavender oil to treat a burn after an accident in his laboratory and discovered that not only did the oil ease the pain, but that it healed without scarring.
Member Comments