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aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is becoming an increasingly popular way to enhance one’s well-being. The aromas from various essential oils, extracts, and herbs are useful in reducing stress and enhancing one’s mood. Certain aromas even increase cognitive functions. Some chronic sufferers of pain even argue that this type of therapy leads to pain relief.
Because of its frequent appearance in social media and health magazines these days, many assume that Aromatherapy is a new term. Some skeptics think the term was coined by air freshener companies as a marketing stunt. But the truth is that this technique has quite a history to it. While some of the aspects and procedures of it have changed over the years, aromas had healthy effects thousands of years ago. Many incorporate natural scents into their lives in current times to have health benefits as well.
A Brief History of Aromatherapy
Egypt
The basis for this health therapy started more than 5,000 years ago in ancient Egypt. In those early days, aromatics was tied with religion and spirituality. Ancient Egyptians used to burn spiced incense in hopes of the scented smoke reaching upwards to the heavenly gods.
Not too long afterwards, the Egyptians made perfumes out of various herbs and spices. Many women also created scented oils. They applied these oils after bathing to nourish the skin and protect it from the harsh, desert sun. As the Egyptians increased their making of fragrances, their perfumes were purchased from people all over the Middle East. Over time, the Egyptians gained a reputation of being master perfumers.
Greece
Years later, aromatics spread to Europe. The Greeks especially took an interest in the effects that herbs and plants have on the body. Hippocrates (circa 460 – 377 BC), known as the founder of medicine, made the discovery that illnesses are explained by science. Previously, people thought illnesses were caused by supernatural forces. During his lifetime he experimented with many herbs and plants to see which ones benefited patients suffering from a particular illness. He also used aromatics to see how different herbs and spices helped to enhance one’s overall mind, body, and spirit. These are the key fundamentals of holistic health.
Another Greek who made a key contribution to the foundation of aromatics is Theophrastus (circa 371 – 287 BC). This student of Aristotle studied plants over his lifetime. He wrote several books giving details about the different types of plants and herbs. He also wrote how to grow them and the practical uses of them. Because of his extensive work he is commonly known as the father of Botany.
The actual term Aromatherapy didn’t come about until 1937. Rene- Maurice Gattefosse, a French chemist and perfumer, wrote a book entitled “Gattefosse’s Aromatherapy.” Hence, the term was founded. In his work, Gattefosse wrote how using essential oils helps treat a variety of physiological illnesses.
Since then many have shown interest in the study of aromas and its health benefits. Many advocates of this scented therapy like the fact that it is natural and non-invasive. It is a healthy alternative to medicines that incorporate a ton of chemicals. Different herbs and spices have different effects. To see a list of common aromas used in this process and their healthy effects read on.
10 Common Aromas used in Aromatherapy
Basil
This herb is useful in suppressing coughing. Basil also helps provide respiratory relief to those suffering from Asthma, Bronchitis, or sinus infections.
Cinnamon
This spice often reduces drowsiness. Additionally, when the essential oil is added to a bath, it can reduce muscle tightness. Cinnamon also has a history of being a natural aphrodisiac and can spice up the romance.
Coffee
Even the mere smell of coffee awakens the senses. In a study conducted with rats, the aroma of coffee reduced stress on a group of sleep-deprived rodents.
Eucalyptus
Inhaling the oils produced from this evergreen reduces anxiety and stress. Also, breathing in the aroma of eucalyptus helps to sooth respiratory issues – especially those that arrive during cold and flu season.
Also Read: The Healing Properties Of Eucalyptus Oil
Ginger
The oils from this plant root are effective in fighting sensations of nausea. Ginger also energizes the mind and body. After a night of drinking, Ginger helps to alleviate a nasty hangover.
Jasmine
The essence from this flower leads to a calming effect. It is useful in reducing fears and anxieties; it also is beneficial to those suffering from post-natal depression.
Lavender
In addition to being a pretty flower, lavender also has a calming effect. It frequently leads to a more restful sleep at night. When lavender oil is added to bathwater it helps to reduce muscle pain and soreness.
Also Read: Health Benefits Of Lavender Oil
Lemon
Breathing in this fruit instantly awakens the senses. In addition to stimulating the senses, lemon oil improves neurological activity. This essential oil also can help combat depression and improve one’s overall mood. Lemon can also help ease a hangover.
Peppermint
This fragrant plant is useful in elevating one’s mood. Its stimulating nature also helps to fight mental fatigue and improves concentration.
Vanilla
Extracted from the vanilla bean, vanilla has several positive effects. It is useful for elevating one’s overall mood, combating anxieties and depression. It also stimulates testosterone and estrogen hormones and serves as a sweet-smelling aphrodisiac.
Practical ways of incorporating Aromatherapy
It is easy to incorporate aromas daily in plenty of ways. One way is to add a few drops of the essential oils to water in a spray bottle. Spritzing the scented water in the room as an air freshener is easy and effective. Spraying water with calming oils directly onto pillowcases promotes a more relaxing sleep.
For those that enjoy taking a warm bath, add a few drops directly to bath water. This is especially effective for those that take baths to relieve sore muscles and have pain.
Lighting scented candles also have beneficial aromatic results. Some prefer to make their own scented-candles by adding a few drops of their favorite essential oil onto the melting wax as the candle burns.
Finally, some prefer to simply massage a few drops of their favorite essential oil directly onto the skin. The scent stays with you for most of the day and will hopefully lead to a better day as well as better health overall!
The post Making Sense of Scents: A Guide To Aromatherapy appeared first on HB News Network.
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