All about Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is the practical use of volatile oils extracted from plant parts, from the petals, leaves, roots, fruits and from vegetables. Aromatherapy is used to cure physical ailments and psychological disturbances such as tension and stress. Here the word aroma means pleasant smell and therapy means treatment. The essential oils are the pure essence from the plant, which is known to cure various ailments if used correctly. Many get confused between perfume oils, fragrance oils and essential oils. Both perfume oils and fragrance oils are same, however essential oils are different. Perfume or fragrance oils just provide fragrance but they don’t carry any therapeutic benefits like the essential oils.

What are the benefits of ‘aroma’ from the essential oils? When essential oils are used in right amounts, they have great therapeutic uses. For instance, essential oil added in bath tub while taking bath, the aroma helps us in reducing stress and keeping our mind calm. These essential oils are also known to cure various diseases. When inhaled, natural chemicals present in the essential oils enter the lungs and also provide physical benefit. Essential oils also blend with other ordinary oils. Oils such as coconut and olive oil and can be mixed in correct quantity, and this can be used for massage. Using such oils will help in reducing pain in particular area for the body. If essential oils are used in large amounts it may causes severe problems like head aches, eye and skin irritations.

Essential oils also provide other benefits as well. Some oils, for instance, act as a natural insect repellent. This is a cruelty-free option to drive away insets. We use Citronella candles, to keep mosquitoes away. Here Citronella is an essential oil which is the ingredient used in the candles that provide this benefit. Essential oils are also used as room refreshers; they are basically added to the mixture of dried flower petals and placed in glass bowels. Essential oils are also mixed while making candles, these candles when burnt releases pleasant smell. Such candles are called aroma candles, if used while meditating and during yoga this will provide more positive effects.

Here are some common essential oils; Bergamot is the most popular oils used to treat cold sores, urinary infections, chicken pox and used as insect repellents. Clove oil is often used in dentistry. Lavender oil is used to soothe migraines and headaches. Rose, sandalwood and Ylang-Ylang oils are used as aphrodisiac.