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Aromatherapy is a way to treat medical conditions naturally and holistically without introducing chemicals and drugs into the body. It involves using essential oils and aromatic essences of plants via the air to treat a person’s symptoms. When a person senses or smells certain things it evokes a specific reaction from excitement to relaxation, depending on the odor.
The idea of aromatherapy was first thought of by a French perfumer and chemist named René-Maurice Gattefossé who wrote a book about it called “Gattefossé’s Aromatherapy,” in which he discusses the clinical findings of using smells to treat medical conditions in a natural and non-invasive way. Research has shown the effectiveness of aromatherapy for many conditions, even new hair growth.
Other than the potential for allergic reactions in some individuals, using aromatherapy is both effective and safe. Be aware of some types of aromatherapy that involve putting oils directly on the skin, as this might be more likely to cause bad reactions due to the strong oils. Real aromatherapy involves using the smells in the air and not directly on the skin.
Different aromas are purported to treat different conditions:
- Sweet Basil – A sweet, spicy floral smell that is used to help treat fatigue and make you feel more energetic. If you’re often tired in the morning, try using a sweet basil-infused shampoo or soap.
- White Camphor – A smell that is often used in disinfectants due to the fresh odor can be used as a refreshing smell to help bring clear thoughts.
- Red Cedarwood – The smell is woody and warm which can help a person calm down and feel stronger. This is often used to treat anxiety and fear.
- Wild Chamomile – A very fresh, balsamic, sweet fragrance that makes a person feel calm and can help treat insomnia.
- Cinnamon – Everyone is familiar with the smell of cinnamon, but did you know that it can help wake you up and make you feel more invigorated?
- Eucalyptus – This aroma is often used to treat common cold sinus symptoms and also freshen the air. The smell is unique and recognizable immediately.
- Ginger – One of the spiciest and woody odors that you can use to help warm your body and treat a sinus headache. You can use ginger in a tea and actually ingest in small amounts.
- Lavender – Often used to calm anxiety and make people feel more relaxed. You’ll see this scent used a lot in night-time bath, lotion, and baby preparations.
- Lemon – If you are tired a lot and depressed, try using lemon oil to brighten up your day.
- Peppermint – This scent can be used to wake you up and give you more energy.
- Rosemary – This scent is strong and fresh and often thought to improve memory.
- Ylang Ylang – From flowers of the Cananga tree, this smells a lot like jasmine, and is often used to treat sexual dysfunction.
The aromas you use will depend on the issue you want to treat. The best way to be sure if you’re using the right combinations is to seek out a certified aromatherapy specialist who has been trained to provide the right guidance. Usually, these professionals are chiropractors, nurses, massage therapists or other caring professionals in addition to aromatherapy professionals.