The Basics of Aromatherapy and How to Use Essential Oils

Whether you’re in pain and need some relief from aching or have trouble sleeping, essential oils can be the helping hand you need. Essential oils are extracted from plants using steam distillation, cold pressing or a variety of other methods. They’re typically used by being applied to the skin but can also work with a diffuser and inhalation.

They’re made from different flowers, herbs and parts of trees. This can include the peels, petals or even roots. The fragrance we experience from these plants are known as essences, and when this essence is extracted, we’re left with what we call the essential oil. Essential oils are difficult to make because of how much oil we can extract from a single plant. It takes many plants to create even a single drop of essential oil that can be used.

How does Aromatherapy Work?

Aromatherapy activates your smell receptors. This sends signals to your brain and activates certain parts. For instance, your limbic system could be activated which helps you maintain your emotions. They can also create chemicals that help your brain feel good, such as serotonin. The oils can also be used by applying them to your skin, thus causing a similar response to other parts of your body.

When should I use Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy isn’t’ a replacement for modern medicine, but it can be used to supplement existing treatments or to reap certain benefits. For instance:

• It can help you relax and sleep better at night, such as lavender and red mandarin oils.
• Aromatherapy can ease feelings of anxiety and depression.
• Essential oils can help you reduce stress as well.
• Juniper berries, cypress oil and lemon can give you a short-term boost of energy.
• They can also improve the quality of life for people with long-term mental health problems.
• Some essential oils can boost your immune system and fight bacteria, such as orange and lemon.
• Some essential oils, like peppermint and marjoram, can even help you fight against pain and aches.

Are there Safety Concerns?

Aromatherapy is generally safe, but essential oils can cause skin irritation in high concentrations. It’s important to dilute essential oils in a carrier oil such as argan oil if they seem to cause irritation on your skin. Allergic reactions are also possible, which is why it’s best to test before using them for a long period of time.

Some essential oils can also be ingested, but it’s extremely important to look at the right usage instructions before doing this. Only very specific essential oils can be ingested, so you should never do it unless your doctor gives you the OK.

If you’re new to aromatherapy, then working with an aromatherapist is a great way to learn about some of the more common and popular oils to use and learn about their advantages.