Herbal Aromatherapy |

by Janice Lee

There is alot of discussion and debate about what aromatherapy is. Some claim that aromatherapy is all about fragrances and is commonly perceived as anything that exudes sweet-smelling odor such as that of scented candles and potpourri. There is also debate about the acceptable origin of the oils. This is not the true element of aromatherapy. Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils from natural botanical sources used to help the physical and mental aspects of an individual.

Aromatherapy, or the use of essential oils for healing and therapeutic purposes, really goes all the way back to Neanderthal eras. The method was so commonly used all throughout the ancient period that it transverses the boundaries of distance and culture. It was so widely practiced that you can see references from ancient Chinese, Egyptian, and just about every ancient civilization.

What are essential oils and how are they used in aromatherapy? Essential oils are the volatile liquid products extracted from plant sources. These oils are extracted from the plant materials either through steam distillation, expression, or through the more recent method of supercritical CO2 extraction.

Aromatherapy is effective and used for many different conditions and problems. Basil oil, for example, can be used to counter depression, sharpen the memory and treat headaches and migraines. Others have stimulating effects on the bodily systems such as the digestive and urinary tracts (bergamot oil) and the circulatory system (black pepper oil). Still others can be used as analgesic (clove oil), as topical antiseptics and disinfectants (tea tree oil, eucalyptus, sandalwood oil, etc.) and insect repellents (bergamot oil, citronella oil). There are also those that are used as love potions!

Applying the essential oil depends on the nature of the condition or ailment to be treated and the desired effects of the therapy. It can be through inhalation (proven to positively affect the psychological well-being of a person), topical application, or ingestion.

It is important to note that there can be allergic reactions for some people. If you have any prior history with allergies, you should be careful and use common sense. Cross-sensitivity, or the potential to experience allergic reactions to similar substances, may likewise be another possibility. This may be caused by the presence of adulterants in the oil that you are using. To be on the safe side, take extra precautions whenever using any products. If you are insure, you should visit your doctor to make sure you are okay to use these products.

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