Aromatherapy – find out its extraordinary benefits

The use of aromatherapy is characteristic of natural medicine. Its popularity is growing. The use of fragrances, primarily essential oils, can be beneficial to mood, cognitive processes, and human health

What is aromatherapy?

It is interesting to note that aromatherapy has served man as far back as thousands of years ago. Historians have discovered references to the use of thyme and myrtle as far back as ancient Sumer, or 3000 BC. Later, such practices were also used in ancient Egypt, China and Persia. At the beginning of the 20th century, the term was introduced into common use by René-Maurice Gattefossé.

Essence of aromatherapy

This term refers to the introduction into the patient’s body active substances in the form of essential oils obtained by natural methods. It can be said that it is a combination of natural medicine and herbalism

Action of active substances in aromatherapy

Among other things, the antiseptic properties of essential oils are used. This translates into support for antibiotic therapy. Characteristic of aromatherapy is the holistic view of the human body and the desire for an overall effect that restores balance and stimulates the immune system

Key oils used in aromatherapy

• Lavender oil – works on the central nervous system, minimizes nervous tension and helps combat sleep problems. It has positive effects when helping to fight depression
• Sandalwood oil has antiseptic, antibacterial, antidepressant and tonic properties. It is considered to be an aphrodisiac.
• Rosemary – antidepressant and warming. Soothes headaches and removes fatigue.
• Ylang-Ylang – calms, relaxes, aids sleep. Regulates heart function and allows you to recover after stressful experiences
• Mandarin – has antiseptic, calming and tonic properties. It has a very positive effect on the central nervous system and helps in convalescence.
• Mint – anti-infectious and analgesic. Very well influences in situations with problems with catarrh, coughs and infections of the upper respiratory tract. It is refreshing both for the soul and the body.

Methods used in aromatherapy

Essential oils used in aromatherapy can be administered through:

Inhalations

Inhalation of oils is an effective way of penetrating the active substance into the body. It is used in the treatment of internal diseases. Among others, it unblocks the respiratory tract (preparation from eucalyptus), has a relaxant and disinfectant effect. On the basis of such substances are created, for example, medicinal products acting against rhinitis.

Massages

The benefit of such use of essential oils is twofold: through inhalation of these substances and their absorption through the skin. In this case, the preparation used for massages is created by combining the fragrance and the oil. The range of effects is wide – we are also talking about the sphere of relaxation, which helps to combat stress and some psychological problems.

Baths

This is the most popular of the methods used in aromatherapy, which in itself is extremely pleasant and relaxing. The optimal water temperature during such a treatment is 38 degrees. The bath is taken for about a quarter of an hour in water to which a few to a dozen drops of a particular essential oil have been added

Wraps and compresses

Finally, poultices and compresses can be used in aromatherapy. This is a very simple method for which all you need is a bowl of warm water, a few drops of oil and a towel. Compresses in this way are used pointwise, for example, against the areas where the ailment is felt

What are the benefits of aromatherapy?

What are the advantages of aromatherapy? What is it most appreciated for?

• It counteracts the effects of stress.
• It has an anti-depressive effect.
• Helps with insomnia.
• Combats headaches.
• Has a positive effect on immunity.
• Is a relief from pain.
• Improves digestion.

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