| Making Your Way Through The Maze of Aromatherapy I
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Aromatherapy is a natural and effective way of healing the body and mind. Before you start your aromatherapy journey it’s important to have basic knowledge of aromatherapy so that you get the maximum benefit from it and also keep yourself safe. Information on aromatherapy can be easily found in books, on the internet or at a health store.
Aromatherapy is very popular for health, beauty and a feeling of well-being. Aromatherapy products form a part of many day to day use items like shampoos, conditioners, lotion, candles, and even some baby products such as baby wipes, lotions, soaps, diaper rash cream, and oils.
Aromatherapy information is as old as the practice of aromatherapy which means it dates back to prehistoric times when natural healing was all that was available. In ancient times, healers had to work hard and resort to hit and trial to figure out which oil or herb should be used for different conditions.
The term aromatherapy encompasses a lot of things today. It includes the aroma therapists, essential oils, candles, herbs, bath salts and what not. The range of products and information can easily confuse anybody. The original idea behind the practice of aromatherapy is the use of essential oils to try and treat disease. Aromatherapy is not a recognized form of medicine in most countries.
Definition of Aromatherapy
The word "Aromatherapy" is formed of two words “Aroma” and “Therapy” thus aromatherapy can be described as a treatment of using scents and essential oils derived from plants. Aromatherapy can also be defined as “the treatment which uses essential oils for therapeutic purposes."
However, because of its name most of the people believe that this practice is only about various smells. However it is much more than that!
Aroma therapy is often called an "alternative therapy". However now the view is changing and now it is being viewed as a "complementary therapy," one that can be used in conjunction with other therapies. It is actively being used with other forms of medicine to provide a holistic treatment or to reduce the harmful effects of some medicines and also the pains associated with many illnesses.
Aromatherapy Information is vast however a few basic things can help you for starters. They are:
Essential Oils Basics
Essential oils are volatile in nature. These are the aromatic compounds extracted from plants cell. The compound may be extracted from specific parts of the plants such as flowers, seeds, roots, leaves, wood, bark, or peel. Aromatherapy essential oils are generally stored in dark glass containers. When buying these oils, keep in mind that the oil should have preferably been stored in amber rather than cobalt blue colored bottles. Blended oils can be stored in cobalt blue bottles. Never purchase aromatherapy oils that are stored in plastic or transparent containers as essential oils degrade plastic materials.
Carrier Oils
Carrier oils are used to dilute essential oils as essential oils are highly concentrated and can cause allergies and skin irritation if used undiluted. Unlike essential oils carrier oils are not made from herbs or fruits but are made from vegetable oils. Carrier oils help the skin absorb essential oil. Carrier oils should be stored in a cool place or in the fridge. Carrier oils can last up to 9 months if stored properly.
Uses of Aromatherapy
- Aromatherapy baths are a very effective method for relaxing a stressed body and mind. A warm bath infused with essential oil is a natural way to unblock congested pores and ease the symptoms of fatigue and muscle tension and coat the entire body with a layer of the essential oil.
- Aromatherapy massage combines the therapeutic benefits of aromatherapy and the healing benefits of massage. Essential oils when brought together with the revitalizing effects of massage stimulate all of the organs in the body, plus the skin, muscles, nerves and glands. The increased circulation of the blood and lymph flow also assists with the clearing away of body toxins.
- Aromatherapy has a host of products which can be used in the household activities. Aromatherapy diffusers help in spreading essential oils in the house or office. Aromatherapy air fresheners offer a natural and healing effect and are a healthier option as compared to synthetic air fresheners. There are aromatherapy mosquito repellants which provide relief from the constant problem of mosquitoes. Candles can be used effectively to create the right kind of atmosphere (relaxing, passionate, rejuvenating or simply to improve mental alertness).
Some Precaution in Using Aromatherapy
- Aromatherapy should not be used as an alternative to medical treatment.
- Old people, people with chronic health problems and pregnant women should consult their doctor before using aromatherapy oils.
- Never use essential oils undiluted directly on the skin.
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