Why Is Aromatherapy Relevant?
Aromatherapy is the use of aromatic plants and extracts in treatments. They are popularly used in massages and baths.
Aromatherapy was a popular and common mode of treatment in the Middle East, Egypt, and Europe. It is gaining recognition worldwide.
Aromatherapy is increasingly gaining popularity worldwide. Much still is not known about the importance and the relevance of many essential oils in the treatment and management of many disease conditions
This is a centuries-old therapy and was very popular not only for the soothing fragrances but because of its effectiveness in actually uplifting mood and also in alleviating pain as well as treatment of certain symptoms of a disease like insomnia.
Will aromatherapy by itself be the answer to curing a disease itself, I very much doubt this, but it has shown some effectiveness as adjuvant therapy in disease therapies.
The use of plants for our benefits can never be overemphasized, and it is imperative to stress the point that eating plants for medicine or extracting them for their helpful components is not the only way to apply them for our utmost benefit. We can rub them on the skin as well as inhale them.
Essential oils are 100% naturally occurring and are extracted from the plant in a process called distillation. The end product, i.e., the essential oil, often has the characteristics of the plant source.
On the other hand, fragrance oils are not naturally occurring and are inorganic oils synthesized in laboratories.
For our discussion here, we are discussing only essential oils.
Popular plants used in aromatherapy are Lavender, frankincense, myrrh, geranium, peppermint, clove, lemon, orange blossom, etc.
My first introduction to aromatherapy was lavender essential oil and the lavender plant. This may not come as a surprise to most people as Lavender has been widely used for centuries now both for its aromatics and for beautiful landscaping and ornamental plants. I remember when planning the landscape for my home, I positioned my lavender plants in strategic locations where we as a family most likely walk by on a regular basis to enjoy the scent when the family walks by.
It is an excellent idea for window box plants as well. Imagine waking up to the fragrance of Lavender. Heaven!
Lavender essential oil seems to be the most popular oil in many parts of the world
Lavender was popular among many great women we know in history who depict beauty and elegance, and they used it for purposes ranging from daily beauty routine to seduction.
Charles VI of France was said to have always used lavender herbal pillows. Queen Elizabeth 1 of England had fresh cuts of Lavender every single day of the year. Queen Victoria’s favorite deodorant she always used was Lavender. While Louis XIV constantly bathed in scented lavender water.
Some other great women in history used Lavender for seduction.
Queen Cleopatra quickly realizes the strong scent of Lavender and uses its overwhelming effect on Julius Caesar and Mark Anthony.
Biblical Judith was said to have used Lavender in scenting herself before she seduced Holofernes so she could behead him and save Jerusalem.
Queen of Sheba offered Lavender and frankincense with myrrh to King Solomon.
Over the years, with improvements in technology and constant research, Lavender has been incorporated into many industries, and valuable formulations have continued to gain popularity in the cosmetic industry, perfumes, soap, creams, shampoos, and candle industries.
With the right combinations of two or more essential oils, therapeutic formulations for the skin, hair, breathing, sleep, and mood have been found to give successful outcomes without the unnecessary side effects of modern medicine.
It is always important to work with a professional when choosing the right blend for you.
It is important to be aware of possible drug interactions and side effects when choosing your essential oil.
It is also of note that some essential oils have multi-use; for example-
Lavender essential oil is helpful for the skin, hair and it also has quite helpful use for sleep without addictive side effects
Peppermint essential oil is helpful for breathing; peppermint essential oil applied to the skin has been found beneficial in joint pain and muscle ache. It is beneficial to reduce stress and headache.
It has found some culinary prominence and usefulness in the cosmetic industry. It is also commonly used in the food and beverage industry.
Inhaling essential oils is also an effective way of incorporating aromatherapy into your health and wellness regimen. There are so many aromatherapy diffusers in the market that throw your favorite scents in your living spaces. Remember to choose according to the appropriate size of the room for it to be effective.
Essential oil diffusers are very useful in inhaling essential oils meant to function in the respiratory system especially. Most are ergonomically built, and you can choose to fit your decor.
It is imperative to source your essential oils appropriately. Know your source! There are health coaches that specialize in guiding you on what you need in your own wellness journey
Essential oils, while applied to the skin, should be done with extreme caution. It is always advised to dilute with carrier oils.
Like every drug, when using essential oils in any form of therapy you choose, it is crucial to be aware of their active components and educate yourself on other drug interactions they may have and their side effects.
The most important advice is to embark on your aromatherapy journey with a professional to avoid catastrophic consequences. They are readily available, so it is easy to assume they are not harmful. When used as a therapeutic agent, make sure to get a therapeutic grade, and most importantly, do not confuse essential oils with fragrance oils.
Always follow manufacturer guidelines before using any essential oil.