Essential oils are used in aromatherapy in a number of ways to treat and relieve many health problems. An essential oil possesses various properties, depending on which plant it was extracted from. Understanding where essential oils come from, the different properties essential oils possess, how to use essential oils, and being aware of any cautions associated with a particular essential oil, leads to more effective use in aromatherapy.
Definition
An essential oil is extracted from the various parts of a plant; essential oils are found in the veins, glandular hairs, sacs or glands of a plant. Essential oils are extracted from flowers, tree bark, seeds, leaves, grasses and roots of a small percentage of the plant species that contain these fragrant aromas. Some common essential oils include lavender, rose, lemon, peppermint and chamomile. According to Jennie Harding, in her book "Aromatherapy Massage for You," only 1 percent of all of the plant species possess essential oils.
How Essential Oils Work
An essential oil is basically an aroma that is extracted from a plant, in various ways, and distilled for use in aromatherapy; although essential oils are applied in various ways for aromatherapy use, it is widely believed that the inhalation of essential oils is the most effective and quickest way in which the body responds to an aroma. In her book, Harding describes the relationship between the brain and the sense of smell.
Properties
Essential oils have numerous healing properties, depending on the individual essential oil; many essential oils share the same or similar properties. Some of the common properties of essential oils include sedative, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, digestive, tonic, stimulant and anti-viral. Essential oils are used to prevent disease, balance the body and blend with each other for a greater healing effect. Julia Lawless, in her book "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils," lists more than 160 individual essential oils and their properties and uses.
Uses
Essential oils in aromatherapy are predominately used to heal the body of disease; some of the common problems which essential oils are used for include headaches, coughs and colds, stress, arthritis, anxiety, digestive complaints, PMS, menstrual difficulties, muscle pain, insect bites and all types of skin problems.
How to Use
If applying essential oils to the body, use them in a carrier oil, either alone, or combined with appropriate essential oils that are complementary to healing the problem. The simplest and quickest way to use essential oils is to inhale directly from the bottle or use a diffuser. In addition, use essential oils in aromatherapy massage, in skin-care lotions and creams, and in shampoos and bath preparations.
Cautions
Most essential oils are safe to use if used correctly. However, it is essential to know the properties of an individual essential oil and any recommendations for not using an essential oil for a particular condition. For example, do not use some essential oils in pregnancy, for babies and young children, with high blood pressure, in epilepsy or with sensitive individuals.
References
- "Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils"; Julia Lawless; 1995
- "Aromatherapy Massage for You"; Jennie Harding; 2005
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