What is Aromatherapy, and what are its benefits?
You might be experiencing some health or psychological issues that affect your mood or sleep, requiring chemical treatments or even certain exercises and activities to help address these problems. These solutions can demand significant time and effort with uncertain outcomes. However, scientists have now discovered quick and safe solutions from nature in what is known as Aromatherapy (the therapy of scents).
So, what exactly is Aromatherapy? What are its benefits, and has its effectiveness really been proven?
This is what we will explore in this article.
What is Aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is a science that involves the use of naturally extracted aromatic scents from the essence of certain plants, such as roots, petals, or bark, without altering their chemical composition or adding any other chemicals, then converting them into essential oils. It is one of the fastest-growing forms of alternative medicine, used to enhance mood, stimulate certain glands and systems in the body, and help evoke different feelings depending on the essential oil used, which can help alleviate some types of pain or negative emotions.
The history of aromatherapy is deeply intertwined with various ancient civilizations, particularly the Greeks, Egyptians, and Chinese. It was rediscovered by the French chemist René-Maurice Gattefossé, who discovered the healing properties of lavender oil after treating a burn. These discoveries were confirmed during World War II when the French surgeon Jean Valnet used essential oils to treat soldiers' wounds, proving the medical benefits of aromatherapy.
How does Aromatherapy impact human health?
Aromatherapy works through the inhalation of these scents or, in some cases, ingestion if necessary. Experts believe that these scents are inhaled through areas in the nose called olfactory receptors, which then send messages to the brain through the nervous system, activating the release of certain glands and systems that produce various emotions such as:
- The limbic system, responsible for memories.
- The hypothalamus, which is responsible for releasing the hormone of happiness.
- Relief of joint pain.
- Alleviation of symptoms of depression and anxiety.
- Improved sleep.
- Assistance in relaxation.
- Antimicrobial properties.
Some of the most important essential oils:
- Lavender Oil:** Greatly aids in relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety.
- Tea Tree Oil:** Helps treat acne, insect bites, and athlete's foot.
- Peppermint Oil:** Relieves headaches and helps alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
- Lemon Oil:** Enhances mood.
- Sandalwood Oil:** Enhances feelings of love and romance.
This is where Aroma Magic recognizes the importance and effectiveness of this science in psychological and physical therapy, aiming to bring it to everyone to enhance the meanings of confidence, beauty, and happiness in every woman.
Visit our website to explore our Aromatherapy products for a better, lasting life.
Sources:
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3921/11/12/2374
https://academic.oup.com/chemse/article/29/8/731/326080
https://www.webmd.com/balance/stress-management/aromatherapy-overview