Aromatherapy, a relatively new term for a practice that has its roots in ancient times, is much more than the dictionary definition – ‘aromatic oils extracted from herbs, flowers and fruit.’
Aromatherapy is the responsible use of essential oils to balance and heal the body, mind and spirit. Scientific studies being conducted throughout the world today continue to validate their effectiveness.
Virtually every civilization in history used aromatics for religious, medicinal and cosmetic purposes. Many, like the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans, incorporated scented botanical oils for their therapeutic and healing effect in addition to cosmetic purposes. Ancient Chinese and Ayurvedic societies incorporated aromatic plants into their pharmacopoeia of medicinal plants for healing. Today, essential oils are primarily used externally, however in Europe some doctors administer the oils internally to treat specific conditions and ailments. France is at the forefront of aromatic medicine. In the U.S., environmental “fragrancing” and topical applications absorbed through the skin are the most common uses.
The aromatic gum resins were used in ancient rituals to help achieve an elevated or meditative state of mind, and they do the same to this day. The use of herbs and aromatics would not have prevailed to the present time had it not proved effective.
Aromatic oils, also known as essential oils, are derived naturally from botanicals. These essences work primarily through the sense of smell – through the olfactory nerves and receptors located at the top of the nose. The effect is very quick. The message is carried into the brain directly. This impulse affects the entire nervous and endocrine system. From a holistic point of view, the oils should not contain synthetics, but be derived solely from botanicals
As for choice, one should do a lot of ‘sniffing” to discern which oils attract you the most. The ones that make you feel good are the ones you should use. Those are the ones that can be used on a daily basis. And, as your mood changes, so will your use of essential oils.
Though the general public can use aromatics safely, responsible use is important. These oils are very powerful, very concentrated, and in the wrong hands they could be problematic. One should always seek out a properly trained and qualified Aromatherapy Consultant.
Awareness about aromatherapy is growing by leaps and bounds and studies of therapeutic properties of essential oils – external and internal uses – are being conducted worldwide. Today, the ancient combination of massage with plant essences to improve health is called Aromatherapy Massage. While the benefits of massage are extensive, carried out with essential oils may double the effects of massage.
Aromatic botanical essences have a complex chemistry and hence, offer a wide spectrum of simultaneous therapeutic properties, i.e., antiviral, antispasmodic, toning, analgesic, sedative, diuretic, to name just a few.
In addition, their small molecular size enables them to penetrate the skin and reach the capillaries. Once in the blood stream, they circulate throughout the body and are transported to the areas where they are needed.
Essences have such power through the olfactory system that dark and heavy feelings of depression, anxiety, fear, frustration and rejuvenation can be quickly liberated from the mind and replaced with a lighter, uplifted and tranquil state. Generally those scents that are perceived as being the most pleasing are the ones that induce feelings of serenity, joy and well-being. Further, essential oils can help open and deepen breathing as they have an affinity for the respiratory system.
The efficacy of aromatherapy is cited in the treatment of various ailments, such as: stress, headaches, pain reduction, sleeplessness, anxiety, insomnia, depression, irritability, skin problems; relief of rheumatism symptoms, premenstrual tension, poor circulation, and much more.
Never settle for anything less than a properly trained and qualified Aromatherapy Consultant. Essential Oils are delightful, but powerful substances, and should be held in respect and used with caution and knowledge.
About the Author
Mercedes Hnizdo, S.P. CLIN DIP A, MISPA, ICMT, Clinical Aromatherapist and Co-Owner of Aromatherapy Unlimited®, and Director of the Institute of Aromatherapy® in Denville, New Jersey, USA.