Aromatherapy - How Does It Work?

Aromatherapy Oils or Essential Oils are a key aspect to aromatherapy and can be used in three ways, through inhalation, topically and orally (only under experienced medical supervision, SOME OILS CAN BE TOXIC). It works on both physical and nonphysical levels, holistically, addressing the physical body, mind and soul by linking physical, mental, and emotional levels of concern. It actually works best when it is used by the mind and body simultaneously. Aromatherapy works subtly, through the senses as you absorb impressions. It targets different neuro-chemicals in the brain, to lift up, stimulate, sedate or create euphoria.

However the most well known way aromatherapy works is through smell, because of the influence of aroma on the brain, especially the limbic system, the part of the brain that controls our moods, emotions, memory and learning, through the olfactory system.

"Nothing can cure the soul but the senses, just as nothing can cure the senses but the soul." ~Oscar Wilde~

Essential oils used in aromatherapy stimulate our powerful sense of smell which is a primordial link to our brains. We have the capability to distinguish 10,000 different smells and it is also well known that smells have a significant impact on how we feel.

As scents are inhaled, the smell travels across the olfactory nerves located inside the nose and then up into the part of the brain that controls our moods, our memories and our ability to learn. This area is called the limbic system and when stimulated it releases endorphins, neurotransmitters and other "feel-good" chemicals.

Certain studies involving brain wave frequency indicated for instance that smelling lavender increases alpha waves in the back of the head, which are associated with relaxation and the fragrance of jasmine increases beta waves in the front of the head, which are associated with a more alert state.

Imagine for a moment what life would be like without fragrance.

Doctors have found, when dealing with patients with anosmia that a life without fragrance can lead to high incidence of psychiatric problems such as anxiety and depression.

However, Aromatherapy is a vast subject and is not about the smell alone.

Aromatherapy also works by absorbing the essential oils that have been extracted from plants, fruits, herbs and flowers into the blood stream through the skin.

When an aromatic essential oil (diluted) permeates our skin through the bath or a massage, it activates thermal receptors, killing microbes and fungi.

When the oil penetrates the epidermis, it also stimulates our sophisticated lymph duct system, and enters the bloodstream, eventually delivering well-being to our frayed and frazzled minds.

This method is perfectly safe and if you've ever rubbed a fragrant lotion, cream or ointment into your skin or received an aromatherapy massage, you've already indulged in a form of aromatherapy.

Scientific studies have established that essential oils used in aromatherapy contain chemical components that can exert certain specific effects on the mind and body. Their chemistry is complex, but generally includes alcohols, esters, ketones, aldehydes, and terpenes. See the Aromatherapy Applications Table here.

Related Video

Aromatherapy Methods of Application Table

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