Have You Ever Considered Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is still not clearly understood, in terms of what it is and how it helps promote health and well-being. Aromatherapy means using essential oils extracted from plants and herbs to harmonize and give balance to your body, mind and spirit.

People who use aromatherapy are not necessarily ill. Some enjoy it because it soothes and relaxes them. Remember that when the mind is relaxed and at ease, the body becomes healthier too.

Where is aromatherapy used?

Aromatherapy is being used successfully in a number of areas. The central nervous system can be affected by certain types of oil, can reduce anxiety and depression, calm and relax you, even help you fall asleep. Other types of oils can energize and stimulate you. Aromatherapy has no side effects, it's cheap, and you can use it anytime, night or day.

It can also be used as a pain reliever during childbirth. Many women nowadays forego the traditional methods used in most hospitals today. They would rather experience the entry of their child into the world. Similarly, aromatherapy is used by women suffering from menstrual cramps and those going through menopause.

When you combine aromatherapy and massage, you can achieve greater results, with increase levels of relaxation and significant improvements in your well being. This is because the oils used are absorbed through the skin as well as through the nose.

Some Common Oils and Their Uses

You can do your own aromatherapy with the purchase of the oils and a burner, or you can add oils to your bath for a truly uplifting or calming experience, depending on the oils you choose. If you use a burner, you should know that the oil must be diluted in water before adding to the burner. Generally only about three or four drops of oil needs to added to about 10 drops of water.

Lavender is a popular oil which is used in a variety of ways. It can calm you and also has antibacterial properties which help heal skin after being burned. Its relaxing ability helps you to fall asleep. It can also eliminate headaches.

When mixed with peppermint, another widely used essential oil, you can overcome lethargic moods or fatigue. Peppermint will stimulate you, and improve your mental clarity, your mood, and your memory.

Peppermint, and similar oils, like ginger, juniper, rosemary, clove, and eucalyptus decrease congestion. If you need to lower your stress levels, try jasmine or rose. When you're feeling blue and your spirit needs a lift, the citrus oils will help. Use lemon, bergamot, or mandarin.

For women, sage and geranium are very effective in curing hormonal imbalance. For those going through menopause, they can combine the two, along with lavender, chamomile, Melissa, bergamot, or ylang ylang.