In recent years, alternative medical therapies are becoming more and more popular in Western health care. One such alternative therapy is called aromatherapy. This medical technique uses fragrances in oils, lotions, and other substances to heal and prevent health problems.
Aromatherapy starts with essential oils, which can be used alone for a single scent or combined with others. There are a number of application methods available, which can be performed at home or by a professional. Most specialty stores and aromatherapy professionals offer more than one of the following options:
- Massage
- Lotions and Creams
- Baths
- Inhalants
- Compresses
Essential oils are highly concentrated oils from various plants. The simple inhalation of essential oils brings both physical and mental benefits. Those suffering from serious medical conditions should only use aromatherapy under the care of a trained professional, as combining the wrong essential oils can produce adverse side effects or medical problems.
Aromatherapists are knowledgeable in aromatherapy techniques and can be a valuable resource. They begin the process by mixing an essential oil with a carrier oil. Remember that essential oils are extremely concentrated, thus applying them directly to the skin or using too much for inhaled therapy can be harmful. There are a number of carrier oils to consider, which act as a neutral base that dilutes essential oils. These include almond oil, grape seed oil, and peanut oil. An aromatherapy therapist can help select the right carrier oil according to other oils being used and possible allergies.
Essential oils can be used one at a time, but many therapists will combine oils using specific recipes. Essential oils must be mixed in appropriate concentrations and with the right oils to create a beneficial reaction.
There are seven basic types of essential oils, with dozens of varieties within each group. These groups are:
- Alcohols: used for healing and uplifting the spirit
- Aldehydes: used for sedation
- Esters: used for sedation and fighting viruses (these are usually the most pleasant smells, which are found in many bath products)
- Ketones: used to help with congestion problems
- Monoterpenes: used to prevent viruses and bacterial problems
- Oxides: used to prevent bacterial problems
- Phenols: used for stimulation
There are hundreds of essential oils available to promote health and cure current medical problems. Essential oils may be made from plants, but not all essential oils are safe. It is important for the following essential oils to be used sparingly and by a licensed practitioner:
- Bitter Almond
- Sweet Birch
- Calamus
- Camphor
- Garlic
- Horseradish
- Wormwood
- Wintergreen
- Sassafras
- Onion
- Rue
- Mustard
- Spanish Broom
- Melilotus
Aromatherapy appeals to the human sense of smell, which is strongly linked to emotional centers in the brain. Aromatherapists have studied not only conventional scents known to achieve a certain state of mind (such as lavender as a calming agent), but have also studied unconventional scents and scent combinations that can produce alertness, aggression, happiness, and so forth.
Patients coping with various serious diseases can use aromatherapy to help address the illness itself, as well as aid in relaxation. For example, a massage with essential oils can help the oils travel directly to the affected organs or area of pain. Throughout treatment, the aromas help patients become more relaxed, alert, and mentally able to fight any disease.
Aromatherapy was arguably once a lost art, known only to a select few who studied alternative medicine. Today, many doctors are acknowledging the benefits of aromatherapy and some are even becoming licensed professionals to extend the benefits to their patients.
Of course, this treatment is not for everyone. Alternative medicines are still highly criticized by those who solely believe in conventional medical treatments. It is important for patients to be aware of all available treatment options. Though researchers are still studying the effects of essential oils on the body, promising results in small-scale studies have been recorded. Essential oils should not be injested since many of them can be poisonous. Certian oils may cause sensitization (allergy caused by the oil), and may cause irritation if applied undiluted. Some oils have reportedly caused headaches, nausea, and allergic reactions.
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