How does Aromatherapy Work

Aromatherapy is the practice of using plant oils that are often volatile and using essential oils to improve psychological and physical well-being of a person.

Essential oils are liquid extracts taken from the purest or the most essential part of the aromatic plant. Essential oils are highly concentrated and should never be used directly on the skin; they are most commonly used along with a base oil or with the help of a diluter.

Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, a French chemist, initiated the modern practice of aromatherapy.

How does Aromatherapy Work

Aromatherapy affects our sense of smell. The essential oil and aroma bath salts used in an aromatherapy are absorbed into the bloodstream.

When we inhale the air filled with aroma, it goes to the roof of the nose where olfactory receptors carry the smell to the limbic system, which is a part of our brain. The limbic system is connected with instinct, mood and emotions. This is known as the inhalation method.

In the topical method, aromatherapy oils are rubbed on the body. An aromatherapy massage with an essential oil helps increase the blood circulation and also eliminates toxins.

Taking a bath with aromatic bath salts is good for people suffering from sleep-related problems.

Benefits of Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy does not help in curing major illnesses. But, it is effective in relieving the discomforts associated with them. Some benefits of aromatherapy: improves skin tone, regulates hormones, relaxes muscles and improves sleep.

Aromatherapy helps in relieving menstrual cramps and improving blood circulation. Other benefits of aromatherapy are that it reduces headaches due to tension and relieves lung congestion.

To sum up, aromatherapy boosts the immune system and strengthens resistance to disease and infections.