The Power of Aromatherapy

Photo by: Flickr
Photo by: Flickr

Aromatherapy is a practice that has become more popular in the United States in recent years. It is a type of alternative medicine in which essential oils, derived from plants, are used to treat a variety of conditions. Each essential oil is utilized to heal a different ailment, depending on the plant that the essential oil was extracted from. While there is no concrete scientific evidence that aromatherapy treats illnesses, many individuals find aromatherapy to be therapeutic and reap major benefits from aromatherapy treatments.

Since essential oils are comprised of plant materials, there are countless varieties available. To produce an essential oil, plants and flowers are distilled or expressed to create an extract. The liquid is then bottled. To use the oil, most people inhale the aroma of the liquid or massage the liquid directly into their skin. Some of the most popular essential oils are lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, tea tree, and lemon. Like every essential oil, each of these extracts are used to remedy a different condition.

Lavender oil is purported to have multiple beneficial functions. Lavender supposedly has a calming, relaxing effect and can even act as a sleeping aid. Inhaling the scent of lavender oil before bed or infusing a pillow with oil may help individuals with restless slumber. When applied topically, lavender oil reportedly helps cure a plethora of skin ailments such as acne, bug bites, burns, and wounds.

Peppermint oil is commonly used in aromatherapy to treat problems associated with the stomach or intestines. It has been known to help with gas and indigestion, and has even relieved some symptoms related to irritable bowel syndrome. Peppermint oil is also useful for treating insomnia, muscle pains, and headaches. By dropping the liquid on their path, some people even use peppermint extract to discourage ants from going to an unwanted area.

Eucalyptus oil is frequently found in products like cough syrup or cough drops, due to its supposed healing abilities in systems like the respiratory system. It may also contain properties that help improve the immune system, which could be helpful to many individuals. Eucalyptus might also act as a muscle relaxant, assisting in relieving pain and inflammation.

Tea tree oil, when applied topically, can be a natural antifungal, antibacterial, and antiseptic agent. The oil’s medicinal properties are used in a variety of applications. Tea tree oil is used to treat several different fungal infections, including athlete’s foot, yeast infections, and jock itch. Like eucalyptus, tea tree oil can also enhance the immune system.

Similar to lavender, lemon oil can have an effect on emotions. The inhalation of lemon aroma can cause individuals to feel relaxed and happy. Stress may also be decreased after inhaling lemon oil. In addition to bringing out positive feelings, lemon is often used as an antiseptic and antibacterial agent. It can be useful in the treatment of infections and wounds.

Overall, there are many different essential oils available that may offer unique healing properties for the mind, body, and soul. Aromatherapy is a practice that has widely gained acceptance in the United States over the past decade. It is common to enter into any popular bath and body shop and find a product line devoted to aromatherapy. Spas and salons also frequently provide aromatherapy treatments to their customers. There is no scientific proof that aromatherapy cures disease, but for the numerous individuals that have experienced its therapeutic benefits, there is no denying the power of aromatherapy