Stop And Smell The Flowers: What Can Aromatherapy Do For You?

 


 

Ancient practice of aromatherapy began with the extraction of natural plant oils from a wide assortment of plants such as; fruits, bark, flowers, and roots to promote health and well-being. These oils are either cold- pressed or steam distilled to get the purest form of oil for use with aromatherapy.

 

Aromatherapy can be used to help ease an assortment of aliments including easing aches, pains, and injuries, while relieving the discomforts of many health problems. Aromatherapy also acts on the central nervous system, by assisting in relieving depression and anxiety, reducing stress, relaxing, uplifting, sedating or stimulating, restoring both physical and emotional wellbeing.

 

Essential oils can be used in many ways:   at home, on the go, or at work. They can be used in a variety of ways. They can be added to carrier oils, bath water, or to water in a spray bottle for use as a room freshener, with electric diffusers, soap, and home cleaning. Essential oils should be stored in a tightly sealed bottle, in a cool, dry, dark place.  Heat, light, and oxygen can change the aroma and color of  your valuable essential oils

 

Below is a list of the most popular essential oils and some of their common uses and purposes.

 

1.  Lavender:  is a fresh floral-scented oil and is known to have relaxing properties.

 

2.  Tea Tree:  is a powerful anti-fungal, anti-viral and has antibacterial properties.

3.  Eucalyptus:  "is best known for its respiratory effects. It fights viruses and bacteria, while easing congestion. It also eases muscle and joint aches and pains Eucalyptus globulous stimulates circulation, increasing the flow of blood to affected areas. Eucalyptus can be mentally stimulating and may help increase concentration.”

4.  Sweet Orange “delightfully bright and cheery, strongly antidepressant.”

 

5.  Peppermint “easing migraines (especially those stemming from digestive problems); it helps clear congestion in the sinuses; it can ease indigestion (one drop on a sugar cube, or in a spoonful of honey.)” Mentally, it clears the brain, helps concentration, is a restorative in cases of mental fatigue, and a mental stimulant. Obviously not an oil to use in the evening when you are seeking sleep, but great in the car to help keep the driver alert. Peppermint is the ideal remedy for all digestive disorders, including nausea and vomiting. It is a great remedy for car or air sickness.



6.  Arnica “Extracted from the blossom of arnica Montana.” “Oil infused with Arnica blossoms has been used for easing pain, swelling and inflammation caused by bruises, sprains, muscle aches, wound healing, superficial phlebitis, rheumatic pain, and inflammation from insect bites, and swelling due to fractures.  It is most frequently recommended for "soft tissue" pain - muscles and tendons.”


7.  Bergamot “Lovely green light citrus/floral note, fruity and warm, much used by perfumers as a top note. Encouraging, balancing to the spirit. Combats fatigue due to stress, tension and anxiety. Is reputed to strengthen the immune system.”

 

8.   Clary sage “is necessary oil for every woman. It helps ease menstrual cramps, balances PMS, eases the pangs of menopause, balances extreme emotions, reducing stress and restore inner tranquility.”