Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy - What is it?

Essential oils therapy or aromatherapy is the use of oils producing aroma (essential oils) of plants to treat diseases. Essential oils are obtained from the flowers, stalks, leaves, roots, rind or bark of plants. These oils are blended with other substances, for instance, lotion, alcohol or oil and rubbed on the skin, inhaled or sprayed in the air. You could also use the oils for a massage on the skin or put them in the bath water. The origin of aromatherapy was in Europe and since the early 1900s it has been in practice there.

Aromatherapy practitioners believe that fragrances from the oils help to stimulate the nerves present in the nose. Those nerves then pass impulses to that part of the brain that manages emotion and memory. Depending on oil type, the effect on the body might be stimulating or calming.

The oils are believed to interact with the enzymes and hormones of the body to result in changes in pulse, blood pressure and other functions. A different theory proposes that the aroma of certain oils might stimulate the body to manufacture substances that fight pain.

Aromatherapy - What is it used for?

Aromatherapy could aid in stress relief and encourage relaxation. This therapy has also been used to assist in treating various mental and physical conditions that includes burns, depression, infections, high blood pressure and insomnia. However, till now there has been inadequate scientific evidence to sustain the claim that aromatherapy is effective to prevent and cure illness.

Aromatherapy – Is it safe?

Aromatherapy practitioners do not have special licenses in the United States. Various licensed health professionals, for instance, nurses, counselors and massage therapists may be experienced and trained in aromatherapy. It is essential to discuss with your doctor to find out if aromatherapy could be helpful as well as safe for your particular health condition.

The oils used in aromatherapy should not be swallowed. A lot of such oils are potent and may be hazardous if swallowed.

Children below the age of 5 must not use aromatherapy, as they could be extremely sensitive to the essential oils used. Also, these oils should not be applied near the mouth or eyes as it could cause skin and membrane.

People suffering from certain chronic conditions or illnesses should not undertake aromatherapy without prior consent of their doctor. These conditions or illnesses could be:

* Lung problems, for instance, chronic lung diseases, respiratory allergies, or asthma. Using oils might lead to airway spasms.
* Skin allergies as some of the oils used could result in skin irritation, particularly in the membranes of the mouth, nose and eyes.
* Pregnancy: Aromatherapy should not be used by pregnant women. Oils such as rosemary, sage and juniper could result in uterine contractions.

Always inform your doctor in case you are taking any other therapy or if you pal to combine any other therapy with your conventional treatment. It could be unsafe to give up your conventional medical treatment and only depend on an alternative therapy.