So What is Aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy could probably be more accurately called “essential oil therapy” as it is really the use of the essential oils of aromatic plants for physical and emotional well-being.
Because Aromatherapy is experiencing a lot of interest recently many people are posting their own personal recipes online, and it seems that every cosmetic and bath product company is producing its own line of “aromatherapy” products. So we can perhaps be forgiven for dismissing Aromatherapy as something frivolous or merely for making our homes and selves smell good.
However, more medical researchers are checking out the aromatic plants, and the essential oils extracted from them, than ever before. Yes, science is beginning to take notice!
Studies have found many essential oils and their specific chemical compounds to be anti inflammatory, antibacterial/viral/fungal, analgesic and skin healing (cicatrisant if you’d like to be fancy). Scent can also act upon the chemistry of the brain to relax and calm us or to invigorate us. As a result, other essential oils have been found to have antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects when inhaled.
Essential oils can be inhaled or used topically in a variety of ways, and a blend can be tailored to the individual needs of the client. They can be incorporated into the following for your personal use:
Lotions. Scrubs. Bath salts. Powders. Sprays. Diffuser blends. Inhalers. Body butters. Lip balms…just to name a few!
Why should you come to a certified Aromatherapist for a blend? And is it worth the extra dollar or two to have someone blend something for you instead of running to the healthfood store to throw a few oils you find there together yourself (I used to do this myself, so I’m not picking on anyone).
I’ll talk about why I won’t wing it anymore next time:)
Steam distillation is still the most common way we extract essential oils.
Memberships
Beth's Aromatherapy Studio 