Aromatherapy is one of the oldest forms of complementary therapies. It was used in ancient Egypt and Greece. Today, these aromatherapy methods are still being used.
There are various variations of Aromatherapy but are majorly subdivided into therapeutic and cosmetic.
Therapeutic aromatherapy uses essential oils to treat physical ailments such as stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, arthritis, headaches, back pain, colds, flu, etc.
Cosmetic aromatherapy uses essential oil to improve mood, reduce stress, promote relaxation, enhance sleep, relieve tension, boost energy levels, and increase productivity.
Essential oils are derived from plants. They contain volatile compounds called terpenes and phenols. Terpenes are responsible for the aroma of the plant while phenols are responsible for its medicinal properties. Essential oils are extracted using steam distillation, solvent extraction, supercritical CO2 extraction, and hydro-distillation.
Aromatherapy is the practice of using essential oils to enhance our physical and emotional well being. There are over 100 different essential oils available today. They are derived from plants and used as natural remedies for various ailments. Some of the most popular include lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint, rosemary, lemon, orange, clary sage, chamomile, frankincense, patchouli, sandalwood, cedar wood, pine needle oil, and tea tree oil.
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Therapeutic Aromatherapy (Massage)
Therapeutic aromatherapy is one of the most effective methods of using essential oils. It combines the power of essential oils with massage therapy to create a relaxing, soothing, and therapeutic experience.
Therapeutic aromas are used to treat various health conditions. They include:
• Stress relief
• Relaxation
• Pain management
• Sleep improvement
Massage Aromatherapy Methods
Massage is one of the most popular treatments used by health care professionals worldwide. It has been practiced since ancient times.
There are several benefits associated with massage therapy. These include relaxation, stress relief, pain management, improved circulation, increased muscle strength, and reduced anxiety.
Aromatherapy massage uses essential oils to achieve these same effects.
Essential oils are volatile compounds found in plants. They are extracted using steam distillation, solvent extraction, or CO2 extraction.
Aromatherapists use essential oils to treat various conditions such as arthritis, depression, insomnia, headaches, backaches, and digestive disorders.
Aromatherapeutic massage involves applying essential oils directly to the skin. The therapist applies the oils to different areas of the body depending on what condition they want to address.
This type of massage is often combined with other forms of treatment, such as acupressure, reflexology, and trigger point therapy.
An aromatherapy massage is a safe form of complementary medicine that can benefit anyone.
Benefits of Aromatherapy Massage
The following are some of the top effects of Aromatherapy Massage:
Relaxation
Aromatherapy helps relax tense muscles and relieve tension. This makes it ideal for people who suffer from chronic pain, anxiety, and insomnia.
Pain Management
Many studies show that aromatherapy reduces pain levels.
It is particularly effective for treating acute pain, such as postoperative pain.
Increased Circulation
Studies show that aromatherapy improves blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain and muscles.
Improved Immunity
Research shows that aromatherapy boosts immunity.
It is especially helpful for people who are recovering from surgery or illness.
Reduced Anxiety
Aromatherapy relieves anxiety by reducing stress hormones and promoting relaxation.
It is particularly useful for people who experience high levels of stress at home or work.
Improved Sleep Quality
Aromatherapy promotes restful sleep.
It is especially effective for people who suffer from insomnia.
Healthier Skin
Aromatherapy stimulates the production of collagen, which gives skin its elasticity and smoothness.
It also helps prevent wrinkles and sagging skin.
Olfactory Aromatherapy Methods(Fragrance Therapy)
Fragrance therapy uses scented products such as candles, diffusers, bath salts, and room sprays. These products are designed to release pleasant fragrances into the air.
Both types of aromatherapy can be used to enhance our sense of smell.
When inhaled, essential oils stimulate the olfactory nerve endings in the nose, causing the brain to interpret the aroma as a message.
This type of aromatherapy is often referred to as “olfactory aromatherapy.”
Olfactory aromatherapy is an effective treatment for depression, anxiety, insomnia, and pain relief. It can also help people relax after a stressful event.
Studies show that smelling essential oils can produce feelings of calmness and well-being.
Psycho-aromatherapy
Psycho aromatherapy is a form of therapy where essential oils are used to treat psychological disorders such as depression, anxiety, stress, insomnia, and mood swings.
In psycho aromatherapy, these essential oils are applied topically to the skin to relieve symptoms of emotional distress.
Aromatherapists believe that essential oils can penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream to reach the brain. This allows the oil to act directly on the central nervous system.
This method has been shown to be effective in treating depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
It is believed that the oils stimulate the release of neurotransmitters in the brain.
This helps to improve mood and sleep patterns.
There are several types of essential oils available for psycho aromatherapy. Some of the most popular include lavender, chamomile, rosemary, lemon balm, peppermint, and eucalyptus.
Psycho aromatherapists recommend using one drop of essential oil per 10ml of carrier oil.
Cosmetic Aromatherapy Methods
Cosmetic aromatherapy involves using essential oils in skincare products such as moisturizers, creams, and lotions. These products are designed to provide relief from common skin issues such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and dryness.
Using essential oils in cosmetics allows you to customize your skincare regimen based on what you’re experiencing. If you suffer from acne, you may choose to use an oil blend that contains tea tree oil, lemon balm, chamomile, and calendula. Or, if you want to relax after a tough day, you could try a calming blend of bergamot, jasmine, sandalwood, and ylang-ylang.
In addition to providing relief from common skin issues, cosmetic aromatherapy can also help you achieve a healthier, glowing complexion. Essential oils contain natural antioxidants that protect against free radical damage. Free radicals are unstable molecules that cause cell damage and premature aging. By applying essential oils to your face, you can help prevent wrinkles and fine lines from forming.
The following are some essential oils for cosmetic aromatherapy:
Bergamot
This citrusy oil is known to increase circulation and encourage cellular regeneration. It’s also said to boost the immune system and fight off infections.
Chamomile
This relaxing oil is commonly found in anti-stress blends. It’s believed to reduce inflammation and soothe sore muscles.
Frankincense
This resin is known to promote relaxation and ease muscle tension. It’s also said improve memory and concentration.
Jasmine
This floral scent is known to uplift moods and promote happiness. It’s also said it can help you fall asleep faster at night.
Lavender
Lavender essential oil from this herb is known to relieve stress, anxiety, and depression. It’s also said that lavender oil can help you fall asleep better at night.
Lemon
This bright, fresh scent is known to cleanse the skin and refresh the senses. It’s also said this oil can help you feel happier and more energetic.
Orange
This citrus oil provides a zesty scent is known to promote mental clarity and focus. It’s also said orange oil can help you fall sleep faster at night.
In conclusion, aromatherapy has become increasingly popular over the past decade. This natural therapy uses essential oils to treat various ailments, from stress relief to insomnia. While it’s certainly possible to use aromatherapy without the help of a professional, it’s often easier to seek out a trained practitioner who can guide you through the process.
Aromatherapy is a wonderful complement to traditional medicine, and it’s easy to incorporate into your daily routine. Simply inhale the scent of your choice, relax, and let the healing properties of the oil flow throughout your entire system.