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What is Aromatherapy?
As a holistic medicine, Aromatherapy is both a preventative approach as well as an active treatment during acute and chronic stages of illness or 'dis'-ease
Aromatherapy has been around and has been practiced in one form or another since the beginning of civilization. It is the art, and science, of using oils extracted from aromatic plants to enhance health and beauty. Apart from the physical benefits, essential oils can have subtle effects on the mind and emotions.
It is important to note that perfume oils also known as fragrance oils or "fragrances" are not the same as essential oils. Perfume oils and fragrances contain unnatural chemicals and do not provide the therapeutic benefits of essential oils. Unfortunately, many companies improperly use the term aromatherapy on products that contain unnatural and perfume oils, so it's important to look at the ingredient label when seeking true aromatherapy products.
Although we have been programmed by the common practice of taking pharmaceutical drugs internally, medicinal essences have been tested scientifically, and the latest research confirms that the largest overall benefit is derived by applying the essences to the largest organ of the body – the skin. Why? A major reason is that the stomach contains gastric acids which dilute and neutralize everything. The skin does not operate like the stomach and the essences are absorbed directly into the blood stream and then circulated throughout the body several times before entering the body’s filtration system.
The primary asset of the essential oils is their antibacterial and anti viral property. When at work these properties form a membrane around the plant life protecting it from bacteria and fungus.
Modern medicine has discovered that the aroma impulses travel through nerve fibers and make their way to the part of the brain that controls our intuition and emotions. The aroma substances influence on chemical balance, our moods and our self-esteem. Essential oils that are inhaled into the lungs are believed to offer both psychological and physical benefits; not only does the aroma of the natural essential oil stimulate the brain to trigger a reaction, but the natural constituents (naturally occurring chemicals) of the essential oil are drawn into the lungs that ease a wide assortment of ailments; easing aches, pains, and injuries, while relieving the discomforts of many health problems.
Aromatherapy also acts on the central nervous system, relieving depression and anxiety, reducing stress, relaxing, uplifting, sedating or stimulating, restoring both physical and emotional well being.
Forms of Application:
Inhalation: Diffusers, 8-10 oz. cup – boiling water
Massage
Orally: with honey/bread and honey, in plain water
Suppositories: tampon, rectal suppository
"Aromatherapy is essentially an interaction between the therapist, client and essential oils, working together to bring forth the healing energy which will help the client regain their sense of well being and vitality." Jade Shutes
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