Benefits Of Aromatherapy 101
History has shown that ancient Egyptians were noted for using fragrant oils from plants for religious rituals, and embalming rites. As time progressed, they continued to refine their use of these oils in medicine, cosmetics, and perfumes.
Modern research to date is limited on the scientific effects of aromatherapy. Yet, these limited studies have shown that aromatherapy may have health benefits, for:
1) Relief from anxiety, stress, and depression,
2) Improved quality of life, especially for sufferers of chronic health conditions.
Aromatherapy is thought to affect smell and skin receptors, which send messages through the nervous system to the brain; the part that controls the emotions. (the limbic system) The “Plant and Fruit Oils” used in aromatherapy are extracted from selected plants and fruits, and are then distilled, where they become highly concentrated oils. These oils are known as “Essential Oils”.
Through the use of various diffusers they can permeate our living atmosphere. They can be released through the burning of scented candles. They may also be applied to the skin as in lotions, bath oils or bath salts. Even without our knowing we enjoy these scents at the holidays, in our soaps and shampoos, when bathing, or when applying those skin lotions after a refreshing shower.