Enhance Your Wellness with Aromatherapy
Our sense of smell is one of our most vital senses for helping us navigate the world. Not only does it influence our sense of taste, our sense of smell can also help us discover optimal health and wellness through the holistic practice of aromatherapy, which is the practice of using essential oils to treat both psychological and physical ailments.
Aromatherapy is a popular healing modality that harnesses the therapeutic benefits of plant compounds. The essential oils used in aromatherapy are extracted from different types of plants and flowers. Unlike perfume and other fragrances, essential oils are all natural and not from laboratory chemicals. In fact, essential oils are so powerful they need to be diluted with water or lotion before being applied to the skin in order to avoid a reaction.
Popular Essential Oils & Their Uses
Lavender
One of the most common and widely used essential oils, lavender is known for promoting peace and calm. This can help you overcome anxiety and other imbalances caused by stress. Additionally, lavender may soothe minor burns and scrapes, as well as repel pests.
Peppermint
Peppermints became a popular after-dinner treat for all the same reasons that it is a popular essential oil. It’s not only one of the oldest essential oils, but it is widely regarded as being a digestive aid that can improve the taste and smell of food. Peppermint can also help boost concentration and may prove useful when treating a migraine headache.
Ylan Ylang
Originating in the wilds of Indonesia, Ylang Ylang is known for being an essential oil that enhances romance and relaxation. While it is most well-known for its romantic uses, it can also help lessen feelings of anger and tension in order to promote calm.
Sandalwood
Known for being uplifting and inspirational qualities, it’s no wonder that sandalwood has long been used to aid meditation and in other religious ceremonies. Sandalwood comes from India and is very common in traditional Chinese and Indian medicinal treatments. Not only is it used to treat depression and anxiety, it is also used to great effect for healing a variety of skin conditions.
Rosemary
This powerful essential oil is a disinfectant that has antimicrobial and antiseptic qualities. Rosemary essential oils are used for a variety of hair skin care applications, as well as oral hygiene to treat or prevent serious dental conditions. Additionally, it can boost concentration and mental efficiency while decreasing cortisol, the stress hormone.
Patchouli
Often associated with the hippies of the 1960s, patchouli is an incredibly useful essential oil. Not only does it help release pleasure hormones to fight the crippling effects of depression, it also soothes inflammation and fights infections.
Vanilla
Vanilla is not just for use in baked goods! When distilled to its essential oil, vanilla is an anti-oxidant that may have the power to fight free radicals that may contribute to chronic diseases. It may also help reduce fevers, fight infection and strengthen the body’s entire immune system.
From ancient healers to modern medicine, aromatherapy and the use of essential oils have long been used to improve our health and wellness. Whether you are looking to boost your mental wellness or boost your immune system, there is an essential oil that can help you heal.
