Aromatherapy, What Five Things Do You Need to Know?
Aromatherapy sounds simple when broken into two main parts: Aroma and Therapy. But the world of aromatherapy is a bit more challenging than it seems. When it comes to aromatherapy, there are various methods, including essential oils, plants, flowers, and combinations of the two, that can directly affect the body’s chemistry. Suppose you want to learn more about aromatherapy. In that case, there are plenty of places to start, but let’s take a look at five surprising things about aromatherapy you probably didn’t know that should be common knowledge.
Aromatherapy is Time Tested.
Like acupuncture and other Eastern medicine, aromatherapy dates back thousands of years. The use of essential oils, most commonly combined with massage, can be traced as far back as the Egyptians, who were known to practice aromatherapy for well-being and beauty.
Aromatherapy Works on Multiple Levels
Aromatherapy works by acting on the olfactory sense or what we usually refer to as our sense of smell. When essential oils are placed near us or directly on our skin, the odor of the vital oils triggers our nerves, influences our mood, and can alter our state of being. While we may notice the smell of essential oils more, essential oils are also absorbed through our skin and work in the same fashion. And they have a bonus. Many essential oils have antibacterial and antiviral properties, so while these oils can alter our moods, they can also enhance our immune system.
Aromatherapy is Unique to You
Many people are quick to offer remedies for different illnesses, symptoms, and concerns, but the truth is, aromatherapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Results can vary from person to person due to aromatherapy’s ability to affect the body’s neurochemicals and endorphins. This is what can lead to varying results. These include stimulation, sedation, the production of gratifying sensations, restoring emotional equilibrium, and euphoric feelings. When seeking aromatherapy treatment, it is essential to find a therapy explicitly catered to you based on memory, emotions, hormones, sexuality, and heart rate factors. Aromatherapy is not a practice that is learned overnight; instead, it is a practice that requires much time, education, and expertise. In the course, I make specific recommendations based on my clinical judgment to get you the best results.
Apply With Caution
Essential oils, in their base form, are very potent and concentrated. Therefore, they should never be applied to your skin at full strength. On the other hand, essential oils that have been diluted and mixed into personal-care products are safe and effective.
Your Body Can Be Your Coach or Not
This is the same for aromatherapy. If you find the aroma of an essential oil unpleasant, chances are, your body does not need that specific essential oil, or your body will not benefit from it. A good rule of thumb is if you do not find the essential oil enjoyable, don’t use it. However, many times the inverse is true. Sometimes, essential oils can be unpleasant and clinically warranted. So what to do? Get some sound suggestions. Our clinic uses essential oils as a highly effective and powerful adjunctive therapy to acupuncture, herbs, and functional medicine. With thousands of different combinations at hand, we customize the right blend just for you.