What is It? How to Practice it? What are the Benefits and Risks?
Aromatherapy or essential oil treatment involves several types of traditional, alternative or after treatment which essential oils and other aromatic components are used. People have been using essential oils for almost 6.000 years to heal the mood and physical health of human beings. National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA) defines aromatherapy as ‘’therapeutic and medical use of aromatic components to restore to health”.
Essential oils have different antiviral, antifungal and antioxidant effects. Some diseases such as, body and muscle aches, anxiety, stress, depression, fatigue, insomnia, headache, menstruation problems, menopause problems, hair loss and some types of psora could be relieved by aromatherapy.
Types of Application
Aromatherapy applications involve topical medications and aspiration.
Aspiration: Essential oils are evaporated into air via an aerosol can or chylomicrons. The person who gets the therapy smells the aroma of the essential oils. When odorant molecules reach the brain, senses, heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, memory, stress, and limbic system are affected. In that way, a holistic effect on the body occurs.
Topical Medication: Massage oils, skincare products etc. are used in topical medication processes. The goal is to make the skin absorb the essential oils in the products. Essential oils should not be applied on the skin directly. Before the application, they must be diluted by using olive oil or almond oil.
The Benefits of Different Essential Oils
Basil Essential Oil: Improves concentration and relieves some symptoms of depression. It could be also effective against headaches and migraine. It should be avoided during pregnancy.
Bergamot Essential Oil: It is said to be beneficial for the urinary tract and digestive system. When it is combined with the eucalyptus oil, it could be effective against skin problems which are caused by stress or varicella.
Black Pepper Essential Oil: It could be used for stimulating the blood circulation and relieving muscle aches. It could also be effective against arthritis when combined with ginger essential oil.
Chamomile Essential Oil: It could be effective against eczema.
Clove Essential Oil: Clove oil is a common traditional remedy in different places of the world. Moreover, it could be used for flatulence, vomiting and nauseation. It has antimicrobic, antioxidant and antifungal features.
Eucalyptus Essential Oil: It could relieve the respiratory inflammation caused by cold or influenza. It is very common to combine it with the mint. Eucalyptus allergy is very common in humans. Therefore, you should be careful while using it.
Jasmine Essential Oil: It is known as an aphrodisiac.
Lavender Essential Oil: This essential oil is used for a better night sleep and relaxation. You can also use it for little cuts and burned areas.
Lemon Essential Oil: It relieves the symptoms of depression and improves the mood.
Rosemary Essential Oil: Helps your hair grow in a healthier way. It also improves the memory and prevents muscle spasms.
Tea Tree Essential Oil: It has antimicrobic, antiseptic and disinfectant features. It is used in shampoos and skin care products to treat acnes, burn marks, and bite marks. It is also used in mouthwash products, but you must not swallow it because of its toxic content.
Thyme Essential Oil: It could be used to relieve the stress, anger and fatigue. ,
Yarrow Essential Oil: It is effective against the symptoms of flu and influenza.
Risks
Every kind of essential oil has its own specific area of usage. Therefore, we advise you to consult an expert aromatherapist, nurse, physiotherapist, massage therapist, pharmacist, or doctor. These professionals could give advice to you about application, dilution, and other issues.
Essential oils are not beneficial for everyone. You can experience some negative effects when essential oils are combined with some medications. Therefore, pregnant women, nursing mothers, people who have high blood pressure and epilepsy should avoid using essential oils. You should also avoid using essential oils again if you experience allergic reactions when you use them for the first time.
