Aromatherapy is the practice of using essential oils for therapeutic benefit. Aromatherapy has been used for centuries. When inhaled, the scent molecules in essential oils travel from the olfactory nerves directly to the brain and especially impact the amygdala, the emotional center of the brain.It is offered as a complementary therapy or as a form of alternative medicine.

Aromatherapy is the science and art of utilising naturally extracted aromatic essences from plants, to promote and balance the health of body, mind and spirit.

aromatotherapy,essential-oils, distillation

The practice of aromatherapy uses natural plant extracts, such as essential oils, hydrosols and carrier oils, in a variety of ways. Aromatherapy is described as both an art and a science because it takes the knowledge of the scientific aspects of the plants and oils and combines it with the art of producing a beneficial blend. Aromatherapy can be used topically and via inhalation.

Aromatherapy may enhance wellbeing as part of a healthy lifestyle, by offering therapeutic benefits for a range of physical and physiological conditions. This includes those related to stress, muscles, bones, breathing and skin, among others. It can be used to target not only the symptoms, but also the cause. For example, the same blend of oils that is used for a tension headache (caused by stress or lack of sleep), may also promote relaxation and a better sleep, thereby addressing the cause of the issue in the first place.

Essential oils used in aromatherapy are typically extracted from various parts of plants and then distilled. The highly concentrated oils may be inhaled directly or indirectly or applied to the skin through massage, lotions or bath salts.

Essential oils can also be absorbed by the skin. A massage therapist might add a drop or two of wintergreen to oil to help relax tight muscles during a rubdown. A skincare company may add lavender to bath salts to create a soothing soak.

Aromatherapy is used in a wide range of settings, from health spas to hospitals, to treat a variety of conditions. In general, it seems to relieve pain, improve mood, and promote a sense of relaxation. In fact, several essential oils, including lavender, rose, orange, bergamot, lemon, sandalwood, and others, have been shown to relieve anxiety, stress, and depression.

Taraxaco flowers

In test tubes, chemical compounds from some essential oils have shown antibacterial and antifungal properties. Some evidence also suggests that citrus oils may strengthen the immune system and that peppermint oil may help with digestion. Fennel, aniseed, sage, and clary sage have estrogen-like compounds, which may help relieve symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menopause.