What
is aromatherapy? As
an ancient healing art that has been around since the
pyramids, aromatherapy heals and revitalizes the body and
mind. It is a holistic approach to health and wellbeing by
means of aromas derived from the plant kingdom. It has long
been known that the power of fragrance can be used to
influence and alter our emotional moods. Aromas assist in
balancing, stimulating, relaxing, invigorating and
rejuvenating the body. Aromatherapy is the science and art of
using these volatile, non-oily essences of plants in healing.
Medicinal aromatherapy brings about healing on three planes:
the physical, mental and spiritual.
What
are essential oils? Essential
oils are therapeutic grade oils distilled from plants, shrubs,
flowers, trees, roots and seeds. They are oxygenated to help
transport nutrients to the cells of the body. Some essential
oils are among the strongest antimicrobial agents,
easily eliminating toxins in the body and fighting infection.
Essential oils are also used to open and heighten spiritual
awareness. They contain numerous therapeutic properties, and
often have the ability to donate or receive electrons. The
recognized healing effect is believed to be carried out mainly
through tissue stimulation. Essential oils have an analgesic
neutralizing effect on chemicals carried by the sensory nerve
endings.
How
are essential oils used?
There are many ways essential oils can be incorporated into
our daily lives. Bathing, massage therapy, compresses,
inhalation, steam inhalation and spray mist air treatments, as
well as pet, garden and houseplant care and housecleaning are
some of the most common well-known methods.
Try
It At Home!
Energize
Body Mind & Soul with
a therapeutic blend of rosemary, orange, melissa (lemon balm),
and jasmine. Combine 3 drops of each oil in a diffuser and
breathe the aroma as it fills the room. For a stimulating,
sensual bath, stir the same amount of oils in your bath and
soak for 20 minutes.
Sedating
scents of
geranium, jasmine, lemon balm, Roman chamomile and rose will
help sweep you off to dreamland. Combine 3 to 5 drops of each
(or use just one) in a diffuser in your bedroom. (If you use a
candle powered diffuser, diffuse in the air prior and blow out
the flame just before climbing in bed.)
Bathe
away the blues by
soaking in a tub of clove tea. To do it: simmer 1 ½ teaspoons
of whole clove and 3 quarts of water for 25 minutes in a
non-reactive pan (such as glass, enamel or stainless steel)
with a tight fitting lid to better retain the therapeutic
properties. Strain and add the decoction to your bath water
and soak for 20 minutes.
Bring
the healing, rejuvenating qualities of solar energy
into your home by using orange oil as an all-purpose household
cleaner. Not only will orange oil cut grease and grime on
surfaces, remove stains from carpets, fabric and clothing, its
bright and cheerful aroma will lift your spirits even on the
darkest day.
A
few essential oils and their uses:
Basil:
Eases mental fatigue
Bergamot:
Opens your heart to love and life
Cedar
wood: Enhance connection to Spirit
Clary
Sage: Brings tranquility and balance
Cypress:
Allows peace, comfort and strength
Geranium:
Balances body, mind and emotions
Juniper:
Promotes wellbeing and inner strength
Patchouli:
Aids one in feeling comfortable, safe and grounded
Rosewood:
Enhances meditation, eases anxiety, depression and moodiness
Sandalwood:
Known for opening and centering
Vetiver:
Promotes security and stability; known as “the oil of
tranquility”
