|
 |
 |
 |
|
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils, extracts or
essences from flowers, herbs, and trees to promote health, vitality, and rejuvenation. Many people attest to the therapeutic effects of the essential oils of a wide variety of plants.
Why Aromatherapy Works
There is a direct link between the brain and the olfactory nerve, which regulates the sense of smell, so breathing in the fragrance of certain essential oils can have an immediate calming effect. The oils prompt the brain to secrete neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, that can give you a lift or calm you down.
Common Essential Oils
Oil |
Description/Properties |
|
Bergamot |
The bergamot tree bears fruit that resembles a cross between oranges and lemons. Its golden oil has a spicy citrus scent that’s stimulating and uplifting. |
|
Cedarwood |
Cedarwood’s dry aroma is often
described as soothing and harmonizing. |
|
Jasmine |
This woody shrub has a sweet-
smelling, heady, exotic, floral scent. |
|
Lavender |
The aromatic shrub has mauve, blue, or pale purple flowers. It’s clean aroma is believed to alleviate tension. |
|
Neroli |
Bittersweet but relaxing, this flowery scent is associated with serenity. |
|
Roman chamomile |
This small European perennial plant has a sweet, calming scent. |
|
Rosemary |
The oil of this herb with pointed
narrow leaves stimulates the mind
and enhances concentration. |
|
Sandalwood |
The earthy oil distilled from the roots and heartwood of this flowering plant is known to reduce emotional tension. |
|
Vetiver |
Native to tropical Asia, the thick fragrant roots of this grass have earned it the title “the oil of tranquility.” |
|
Ylang-ylang |
This large tropical tree of the custard apple family is found in Southeast Asia and has a delicate, soothing scent. |
Essential Oil Safety
The potency of essential oils makes them attractive but potentially dangerous, so take care to use, mix, and store your oils properly.
- Never apply undiluted essential oils directly to your skin. They are potent and could burn your skin.
- Wear gloves when handling essential oils, and take care to keep them out of your eyes, ears, nose, and mouth. They can be toxic or even fatal if ingested. For the same reasons, always store essential oils out of children’s reach.
- If you’re blending essential oils yourself, work in a well-ventilated area and don’t overexpose yourself to the scents, which could result in dizziness or headaches.
- If you’re ill or taking medication, check with your doctor before using essential oils. Some essential oils can interact adversely with medications.
Essential Oil Recipes
Here are a few popular essential oil blends used for combating anxiety:
- Blend 1: Three drops sandalwood; two drops bergamot
- Blend 2: Three drops lavender; two drops clary sage
- Blend 3: One drop rose; one drop lavender; two drops mandarin; one drop vetiver
Any of these essential oil recipes can be tweaked to make bath oil, bath salts, massage oils, and more. For more on aromatherapy, essential oils, and blends, see the Quamut guide to Aromatherapy.
| Acknowledgments & Disclaimer |
