It’s no secret your sense of smell enables you to experience your surroundings deeply. Aromatherapy is thought to work by stimulating smell receptors in the nose, sending messages through the nervous system to the limbic system, the part of the brain that controls emotions. Aromatherapy is the practice that’s been around for centuries of using essential oils for therapeutic benefit. When inhaled, the scent molecules travel from the olfactory nerves directly to the brain and significantly impact the amygdala, the brain’s emotional center.
Tap Into Their Power
Essential oils are basically plant extracts. They’re produced by steaming, distilling, or pressing various parts of a plant, including flowers, bark, seeds, leaves, or fruit, to capture the compounds that produce fragrance. With roughly 400 different essential oils extracted from plants worldwide, there is no lack of options. The University of Minnesota acknowledges there have been clinical studies in Europe, Australia, Japan, India, the United States, and Canada that describe various oils’ remarkable healing properties. One recent poll found that a third of Americans believe in the health benefits of essential oils and aromatherapy.
To fully enjoy the experience of aromatherapy, you may want to use an essential oil diffuser. Used with water, diffusers release and disperse essential oil into the air as a fine mist or vapor. When using essential oils for aromatherapy, follow the instructions provided with your diffuser since diffuser sizes vary. Typically, the ratio will be 3 to 5 drops of essential oil to 100 milliliters of water.
Other options for some people include necklaces, bracelets, and keychains made with absorbent materials you apply essential oils to and enjoy throughout the day. Body oil is another option that can be a mixture of essential oils with a carrier oil such as olive, jojoba, or coconut oil that can be massaged into the skin. Aroma sticks or essential oil inhalers are portable plastic sticks with an absorbent wick that soaks up the essential oil.
Popular Scents
While each person must choose what oil is the best fit for them personally, a few oils hold clout. Some people associate Patchouli’s scent with the Woodstock era, while others enjoy its spicy and woodsy notes. Chamomile’s comforting scent of chamomile has coaxed many people into slumber over the centuries. Ylang ylang has a light, floral aroma and is used in aromatherapy to reduce tension and stress. Eucalyptus refreshing scent aids with numerous respiratory issues can be used in humidifiers and help eliminate mildew odors.
Ensure Proper Use
Essential oils are safe but potent, so start slow and do your research. Always use according to label directions. Healthline advises for adults, 15 drops of essential oil to 6 or 7 teaspoons of carrier oil is a good ratio. For children, use less essential oil, around 3 to 5 drops to 6 teaspoons of carrier oil. Always consult your child’s pediatrician before use.
Before using an essential oil on your skin, it’s vital to do a patch test. This test allows you to see how your skin will react to a particular substance before using it more widely. Never ingest any essential oil. Essential oils can sometimes help calm down pets but always check with your pet’s veterinarian before using them. To retain your oil’s freshness, store it in a cool, dark place. It isn’t necessary to refrigerate essential oils, although the cold temperature will not hurt them. If you wish to refrigerate the oil, enclose the bottle in an airtight bag so that the oil scent doesn’t affect your food.
Purity Matters
Do your research on selecting a trusted manufacturer that’s transparent about oil extraction methods and plant sources. Look for organic oils when possible and make sure oils are pure in origin, choosing manufactures that are transparent about countries of origin. As with any new product, make sure you consult a trained professional.
Essential oils genuinely have so many benefits at any age. With a bit of education, time, and exploration, you’ll be able to use nature to your advantage. It’s incredible to use products from nature as a way to heal, grow, and learn. Essential oils can provide a delightful scent or calming ambiance to your home. Enjoy your new essential oil adventure; your body will thank you for it.
