Aromatherapy utilizes the essential oils from plants and other aromatic compounds to revitalize and relax the human mind. Aromatherapy essential oils are the pure essence of plants, known to cure certain forms of illnesses. One should know that these essential oils which have a pleasant and calming odor are not the same as perfume oils or fragrances. Perfume oils contain artificial compounds, as against the natural essential oils, which have therapeutic and curative benefits. From the pretty picture of Sameera Reddy, a Bollywood actress, you may understand that she believes in aromatherapy and the glow of aromatherapy is visible in her face
Aromatherapy seeks to find the effects of various aromas on human behavior. It can be taken through inhalation. Aromatherapy essential oils also can be absorbed by the skin through massages, compresses and baths. It can be absorbed through the mucous membrane through gargles and oral rinses. Ingestion is also another form of aromatherapy.
Using the essential oils in its pure state is just one facet of aromatherapy. In addition, it can also be blended with infusion, hydrosols, carrier oils and phytoncides. Infusions are the aqueous solutions of plants. Hydrosols are like rose water, aqueous derivative of the product after distillation. Phytoncides are natural volatile organic compounds extracted from plants. Carrier oils are often used to dilute essential oils. A case in the point would be the almond oil.
One cannot talk enough about the therapeutic benefits of aromatherapy essential oils. It is quite useful for metabolism and the nervous system. One has found a positive impact of aromatherapy in reducing depression, curing insomnia (lack of sleep), and healing acne, joint pains, stress, common cold and other type of diseases. The essential oils of aromatherapy are quite beneficial for dry skin also. It helps make your skin glow and prevents the onset of wrinkles.
Aromatherapy essential oils comprise of avocado, grape seed, jojoba, olive, sesame, sunflower, rose hip, peanut, sweet almond, cocoa butter etc. These are commonly used in aromatherapy. One can make aromatherapy at home by blending eucalyptus, lavender, rosemary, nutmeg and peppermints in the base oils and adding a few drops of basil in the mixture. You can imagine the comfortable and the soothing aura that envelopes you when you add aromatherapy essential oils like lavender and rose drops to the water before you immerse yourself in a pleasurable bath .Here is a detailed aromatherapy guide that can work wonders for you.
Aromatherapy essential oils have antibacterial and antiviral properties ingrained in them. In fact, the basic elements of aromatherapy are essential oils. These oils are highly concentrated and should always be diluted before you apply them on your skin. Certain oils can cause allergic reactions. You can always consult a professional aromatherapist in case of doubt. Not all essential oils should be used in aromatherapy. Onion, garlic, wormseed, wormwood, camphor, wintergreen are some oils that should either be avoided or used only after consulting an aromatherapy practitioner.