Aromatherapy : Essential Oils

- Dr. Kirti Tekwani

In continuation to the first article of this series Getting started with aromatherapy, in this article we will discuss list and some short details of essential oils, their benefits and usefullness. So lets get started.

There are hundreds of essential oils used in aromatherapy treatments. Following are some of the most basic treatments

Essential oils are the most commonly used aromatherapy oils. Essential oils are extracted from plants by steam distillation. The essential oil has a scent that has a therapeutic effect. Different essential oils have different effects. Not all essential oils are safe for use in aromatherapy. Some unsafe aromatherapy oils include bitter almond, mug worth, mustard, arnica, onion, pennyroyal, rue, garlic, horseradish and wormwood. The healing properties of Essential Oils are capable of not only treating our physical bodies, they are renowned for enhancing our state of mind as well.

Lavender

Lavender has been shown to help people relax and encourage sleep. One study done on elderly residents of a nursing home found that pumping the scent of lavender into their rooms showed significant improvement in sleep. Skin preparations using lavender can also be used to relieve the pain and facilitate the healing of skin problems such as burns and wounds.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is used in several skin care products. It has anti-fungal properties, and works on infections. It also has benefits for the immune system.

Sage

Sage can be used to alleviate pain. It can also help to ward off infections. People who are looking for relaxation and relief from muscle aches or suffer from insomnia might try sage.

Vanilla

Vanilla has warmth to it that makes it useful for people experiencing sadness. It has a calming effect that relieves the senses of stress and depression. It is also thought by some to be an aphrodisiac.

Ginger

Ginger is invigorating, and can be used to pep up the senses and increase mental focus. It is useful for those experiencing exhaustion, and calms the nerves.

Ylang Ylang

Ylang ylang has natural antidepressant effects, and it also encourages relaxation. It works as a muscle relaxant as well, adding to its stress-relieving qualities. Creates a sensual feeling of richness and comfort.

Peppermint

Good for aches and pains such as headache or muscle ache, and also good for relief from digestive problems. Can also be used for soothing skin irritation.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a good way to energize the senses and stimulate mental focus. A general stimulant, rosemary is good for the immune system as well, and can be used in digestive discomfort, tension, and muscle pain.

Essential oils derived from these plants can be obtained from health food stores. If severe symptoms of depression, anxiety, or pain are experienced, see a physician, as they may be a sign of a larger problem. For general wellness, though, aromatherapy is a good way to soothe and stimulate the senses as well as the major regulatory systems of the body, and creates an overall sense of balance.

There are many ways to use and enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy. Essential oils can be added to humidifiers, vaporizers, candle wax, diffusers, and spray bottles of water, baths, light bulb rings, inhaled directly from the bottle or added to massage oils, bath oils, bath salts, powders or body lotions. Essential oils used properly can have very beneficial effects on your life.