Aromatherapy Healing
Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils---highly concentrated form of herbs and other plants---for the purpose of healing. These oils can be used to help people with physical ailments, as well as for boosting mood and psychological well-being.
History
The term "aromatherapy" was perhaps first used by Rene Gatfosee, a French chemist for worked for the perfume industry. One day, an explosion burst out in his laboratory and he was severely burned. When he thrust his arm into the nearest vat of liquid---which, to his great fortune, happened to contain lavender---the pain ceased and no blistering or scarring followed. He subsequently revised his emphasis from creating perfumes to exploring the medicinal effects of essential oils.
Therapeutic Aromatherapy
Therapeutic aromatherapy uses essential oils to treat physical conditions. In this area of aromatherapy, the oils are used to mitigate headaches, wounds, and viral and bacterial infections.
Psychoaromatherapy
Psychoaromatherapy involves the use of essential oils to relax or stimulate the brain. In this case, clients usually visit trained aromatherapists for help with depression, insomnia or stress.
How It Works
Essential oils can enter the body through the nose and the skin. They enter the body through the olfactory system in several ways: Aromatherapists may use essential-oil diffusers, or put the oils in a bowl of warm water or a humidifier. This can also be done at home. Aromatherapists and massage therapists can also administer essential oils using massage---which gives the double benefit of absorbing the oils though your skin and circulatory system, as well as through your nose.
Common Oils Used in Aromatherapy
Common pain-relieving or "numbing" oils that benefit sensitive nerve endings include chamomile, lavender and lemongrass. Essential oils that help diffuse inflammation in the body include chamomile, geranium, juniper, lavender, marjoram, rose and tea tree. Herbs and plants used to promote relaxation include chamomile, lemon balm, lemon verbena, marjoram, myrtle and petitgrain, which is related to the citrus family.
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