Aromatherapy

In aromatherapy, inhalation of essential oil is the most popular method of application compared to oral and topical. Because of the three methods of application, inhalation has the most rapid effect.

When we inhale through the nose, the chemical components within the essential oil bind to receptors in the olfactory bulb. The odor molecules affect our brain, particularly the limbic system where memory and smell are said to reside. Limbic system is also referred to as the emotional brain. Likewise, molecules inhaled through the nose or mouths are also carried to the lungs and interact with the respiratory system.

Oils can be diffused into the air in many ways. Many aromatherapy enthusiasts prefer the electric aromatherapy diffuser. This method puts the fragrance in the air using no heat, which is the best for the oil. You get the best smell and retain more of the properties.

If you’re not ready to invest in a diffuser, try a potpourri or simmer pot to start out in your experimentation with essential oils. To maximize dispersion of the aroma, put about ten drops of oil in the water. You can also buy brass or porcelain candle rings that you fill with oil and put on a light bulb. The heating of the bulb releases the scent.

You may also try dry evaporation. Use cotton ball or tissue, place several drops of essential oil then allow to evaporate. Another way is to spray the essential oil into the air as a deodorizer or freshener. In a spray bottle, add a few drops of essential oil in water and mix well.

Following are some essential uses for aromatherapy essential oils:

• Prepare an aqueous solution of peppermint oil to stimulate alertness. An aqueous solution of citrus oil may enhance immune function. • Do you have a big test or presentation looming? Put a few drops of rosemary or basil in your diffuser or lamp ring. These oils are good for focus, concentration and memory. • If you’re having guests, use the spice or culinary oils, which stimulate appetite and aid digestion. Lavender, cardamom, caraway and spearmint are good choices. • To prevent guests from getting too relaxed after dinner, rosemary and basil stimulate and provoke conversation. • Evergreen oils such as fir, pine and spruce, or citrus oils like orange and grape fruit are pleasing and uplifting. You can even throw in a bit of lavender to make them soothing. • Citrus oils, as well as lavender and marjoram, can calm crabby children or stressed-out adults. Just put a drop on a pillow or handkerchief and let the scents wash away the traumas of the day. • If you want to create a seductive atmosphere, the subtle scent of sandalwood can send the senses spinning. This erotic aroma wafting through the boudoir or bath conjures up images of “1000 Arabian Nights.” • Got a cold or sinus trouble? Eucalyptus penetrates the stuffiest of noses and creates a welcome airway. The scent of eucalyptus can also increase creativity. • Oils are perfect for preventing sickness and are great additions to your cleaning solutions. Oil of oregano is 28 times more disinfecting than phenol, which is a common ingredient in household cleaning products. • For pre-bedtime relaxing, mix lavender with ylang ylang, rose, marjoram or jasmine essential oils for a deeper relaxing sleep. • Geranium also balances very well with lavender, as does with chamomile, which is known for its tranquilizing properties.

But contrary to many people’s belief, aromatherapy does not just about smelling something. Aromatherapy is defined as the use of essential oils for therapeutic purposes. Physicians only choose the method of application according to its clinical appropriateness that is, inhalation for respiratory tract infections, or for psychological effect; ingestion for intestinal complaints; topical application for burns, skin, and muscular problems.