Using Essential Oils In Aromatherapy

By Lee Dobbins
Aromatherapy uses aroma or smells to heal and invoke a certain mood. What makes the smell is something called essential oils. These oils are actually oils that are extracted from plants and they have been used for centuries in all kinds of natural healing including aromatherapy.

The sense of smell can be one of the most interesting and odd effects on your body. Your sense of smell comes from olfactory nerves which are located on your nose forms a response to your brain which is called the Limbic system which control your memory. An example of how this works, when someone remembers a homemade meal that your mother have made, and now every time it is cooked you can remember the smell whether it is good or bad.

You can either inhale the essential oils used in aromatherapy, or apply them directly to the skin. They will be absorbed and can have health effects as well as perfuming your skin. Essential oils can also be used in massage oils, lotions, and other skin products.

You can use these oils by visiting an aromatherapist and there are many techniques you can use at home. You can buy your own oils and mix them yourself or purchase them pre mixed.

You can use aromatherapy in conjunction with or as an alternative to prescription medicine - just be sure you get your doctors OK first. Most of them are safe, although if you are allergic to a certain type of plant you will probably be allergic to it's essential oils too. When using them remember they are very potent so you must dilute them before using on your skin.

Aromatherapy essential oils are great for boosting your immune system and relieving stress but can also be used to help with things like joint pain, skin tone and menstrual cramps. If you have trouble sleeping, there are certain aromas that will help you get a good nights sleep and aromatherapy can also be effective in relieving headaches too.