Aromatherapy is a holistic healing treatment that promotes physical and mental health and well-being by utilizing natural plant extracts. It’s also known as essential oil therapy and it is an alternative medical practice. Aromatherapy is both an art and a science.

Aromatherapy a practice that dates back thousands of years to the ancient Egyptians and Chinese. Today aromatherapy generated a lot of interest in the fields of science and medicine. It is gaining more and more recognition and validation every day.

The word aromatherapy was coined by a French chemist, René-Maurice Gattefossé in 1937. He used the term to describe how he believed essential oils could be used to heal wounds and fight infections.

It was in the late 1930s that chemists began to find medicinal value in plant-derived oils and natural oils. The first major discovery of this came from scientists working with crude drug extracts; it was found that extracts of Eucalyptus, Lavender, Pine, Rosemary and Tea Tree had antibiotic properties. Many essential oils are powerful anti-microbials, and the only possible way to combat bacteria is by using essential oils. Diatomaceous earth, for instance, is not effective against bacteria because its particles are too small to kill the microbes.

Meanwhile, Aromatherapy has become a popular alternative therapy. A comeback is happening today. Many people prefer natural remedies over traditional medications.

Unlike certain medications, the use of essential oils isn’t seen as treatment for a specific condition, such as vertigo. But essential oils have been shown to be very effective on these.

Although there’s some medical basis for the use of essential oils, most evidence is unreliable. Many studies are small and don’t produce conclusive results.

How Does Aromatherapy Works?

The molecules of essential oils begin their work as soon as they enter the body through inhalation. As the lungs work to oxygenate the blood, the essential oils are readily absorbed in the bloodstream as the lungs fill with air. This type of absorption is most effective when essential oils are introduced as a mist, diffused in a vaporizer, or inhaled during massage. Aromas stimulate the olfactory bulb, which quickly sends a signal to the Limbic System in the brain, which is the emotional center, as well as the Endocrine System and the adrenal glands. This is why essential oils have such a powerful influence on our moods and overall mental state.

“The way to health is to have an aromatic bath and a scented massage every day.”
Hippocrates



When essential oils are applied to the body, they penetrate the skin via the hair follicles and sweat glands and are absorbed into the body fluids, where they not only help to kill bacteria and viruses, but also stimulate the immune system and strengthen the body’s resistance to further attack. Aromatherapy is best experienced through massage. You not only receive the therapeutic components of the essential oils during massage, but you also receive the wonderful benefits of the massage itself.

When the therapeutic action of essential oils is combined with the revitalizing and rejuvenating effects of massage, it stimulates all organs as well as the skin, muscles, nerves, and glands. Massage also aids in the removal of toxins from the body due to the increased circulation of blood and lymph flow.

aromatherapy limbic system

Some essential oils can boost circulation and aid in the removal of toxins from the body, while others promote new cell growth and the body’s natural ability to heal itself.

No two essential oils are alike, and each has its own distinct set of characteristics, healing properties, and aromas. With such a diverse range of essential oils and blending options available, the potential benefits of using essential oils in aromatherapy are practically limitless!

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