Aromatherapy:
Aromatherapy is the use of volatile plant oils such as essential oils in order to benefit psychological and physical well-being. Aromatherapy was used by the most ancient civilizations: Egypt, Greece, China and India, and is reputed to be at least 6000 years old. Aromatherapy examines the effects of aromas on the mind via the olfactory system. Aromas enter the body through cilia (the fine hairs lining the nose) to the limbic system, the part of the brain that controls our mood, emotions, memory and learning. Each essential oil contains as many as 100 chemical components, which together exert a strong effect on the whole person. Essential oils do not leave any harmful residues. They enter into the body either by absorption or inhalation. Often people place the essential oils in either a burner or add a few drops in a bath. However, the most effective way to apply essential oils is through massage.
The benefits of Aromatherapy:
The benefits of using essential oils are as varied as the oils themselves. Also, one of the advantages of aromatherapy is that it can be tailored to address your specific needs. The natural oils are less toxic than synthetic antibiotics, although they are not a substitute for orthodox medicine.
Different oils will have different effects on the emotions. Some oils are relaxing, some soothes you down, some relieves your pain, etc. By relaxing or stimulating the nervous system, fragrances can also raise or lower blood pressure. Some oils are particularly useful in treating sleep disorders or women's problems such as PMS or postnatal depression. Aromatherapy is particularly effective for stress, anxiety, and psychomatic induced problems, muscular and rheumatic pains and digestive disorders.