The effects of aromatherapy on the body are achieved through two different ways. The first one is in the belief that aroma affects how the brain works especially the limbic system. This happens when a person inhales the aroma produced by aerial diffusion of essential oils.

The second one is the pharmacological effects of the essential oil when it is directly applied to the body such as during massage. Essential oils contain healing properties which are readily absorbed through this process. It can eliminate fungi and microbes when applied directly to the skin.

A person can obtain both physiological and psychological benefits from the different aromatherapy practices. It can promote wellbeing and may have curative effects.

The use of topical aromatherapy or its direct application on the skin facilitates the absorption of the essential oil diluted with a carrier oil to promote healing. Most essential oils are said to contain properties which may be deemed as antiseptic and antiviral. It is also believed that some of the essential oils are antibacterial while others have antifungal effects.

The essential oils in itself are very strong and may cause irritation of the skin, thus it is vital that it is diluted with carrier oil like almond oil or grape seed oil.

Aromatherapy is also beneficial for those with respiratory infection because it can ease that. In addition, it can be used as a decongestant and can facilitate easier breathing. This can be done through steam inhalation.

Aromatherapy also has mood altering effects. Essential oils like lavender, sandalwood and chamomile can relax and are said to relieve tension.

The aerial diffusion of chamomile and bergamot are considered to be good for women with post-natal depression while peppermint, lavender and rosemary can alleviate mental fatigue. They serve to relax the mind making it possible to recuperate from the tough grind that it has to endure at work and at home.

Anxiety can be relieved through the use of aromatherapy with bergamot and cedar wood whereas memory can be improved with rosemary. Ylang-ylang and sandalwood may ease irritation.

Though essential oils have been used for ages, it was in the earlier part of the twentieth century in which the term aromatherapy was used. It was coined by René-Maurice Gattefossé, a French chemist, who accidentally burned himself in his perfumery where he unintentionally made use of lavender oil to relieve the pain. He observed that the healing process was faster and with a minimum scarring. After that incident, he studied the healing qualities of essential oils.

Things To Consider In Aromatherapy

A word of caution though. Aromatherapy may offer a lot of benefits but it may also exacerbate certain conditions. Its use should be done properly and with caution especially for those people with existing medical conditions. Topical application for some may cause irritation due to the person’s sensitivity to some of its components. The amount of essential oils to be used in aromatherapy is important.

Aromatherapy can be done at home but it would be better if one undergoes this therapy with people who are skilled and licensed to practice it.