First coined by the French perfumer and chemist, Rene- Maurice Gattefosse in 1937, aromatherapy has been used as an alternative form of modern medicine to treat a wide rage of physiological ailments.
Sometimes referred to as Essential Oil therapy, aromatherapy involves the therapeutic practice of using naturally extracted oil from flowers, bark, stems, leaves, roots or other parts of a plant for healing, mood enhancement, pain relief and even cognitive function improvement.
Methods of Aromatherapy
As a stress relief tool and a means to improve the life quality of those suffering from chronic pains or diseases, aromatherapy is extremely convenient and easy to practice. Here are some popular aromatherapy uses:
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Burn a Candle or Two
Like a regular candle, aromatherapy candles instill warmth and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of homes. However, aromatherapy candles also create a soothing and therapeutic effect that is known to relief the stress and anxiety level of the inhaler. When buying candles, only consider the ones with natural components. Paraffin candles made of the same chemical compound you use to fill your car. Pay similar price for natural candles to avoid harmful emissions.
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Diffuse the Aroma
Aromatherapy diffusers take essential oils and spread them through the air. Lavender is said to alleviate headaches, insomnia and pains, while tea tree is naturally antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral. Do some research and learn to diffuse and mix different essential oils for a diverse therapeutic effect.
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Try Body Products
Aromatherapy body products are popular for not only enhancing the psychological and physiological well being of the user, but also creating a pleasant and natural scent on the body. There are many body products available on the market such as lotion, body butter, cream, and even shampoos and conditioners. Rub aromatherapy lotion all over the skin or dab a few drops of skin-safe essential oils on pulse points to enjoy hours of fresh aroma.
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Aromatherapy Massage
Slowly massage essential oil into the skin to improve mood, reduce pain and stress and stimulate circulation. Behind the neck and back are popular massage areas. Applying essential oils in these places will relieve back pain, reduce inflammation and enhance mood.
Aromatherapy is a great and natural way to heal, refresh and enrich a person’s wellness.
As Robert Tisserand, one of the world’s leading experts in aromatherapy, rightly states, “Aromatherapy is a caring, hands-on therapy which seeks to induce relaxation, to increase energy, to reduce the effects of stress and to restore lost balance to mind, body and soul.”
Sources:
http://www.naha.org/explore-aromatherapy/about-aromatherapy/what-is-aromatherapy
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/cam/aromatherapy/patient/page1