Benefits of Aromatherapy and Essential Oils to Try
Mother Nature is constantly giving and loving, providing us with a wide range of benefits, including essential oils. For centuries, people have recognized the healing effects of essential oils. Have you tried aromatherapy or used essential oils before? Do you have a favorite?
If you are uncertain about trying this out, did you know that aromatherapy, often known as essential oil treatment, is a billion-dollar industry?
We will look at how aromatherapy works, the advantages of essential oils, how to use them to achieve the greatest results, and some precautions to consider.
How Does Aromatherapy Work?
Aromatherapy is a natural way to heal your body, calm your mind, and keep your emotions healthy. This practice uses essential oils, which are concentrated extracts made from plant leaves, fruits, and flowers. When you inhale essential oils, they stimulate the nerves, causing them to transmit messages to the brain’s limbic system, which is responsible for emotions. Essential oils have therapeutic and healing properties that help treat diseases and illnesses.
Essential Oil Benefits
- Improve your mood
- Reduce your anxiety and tension
- Kill viruses and keep your immune system healthy
- Hormone balancing
- Mood stability
- Acne and dry skin treatment
- Digestive problems, constipation, and upset stomach
How to Use Them
1. Direct inhalation
The most basic and often used way is to sniff the essential oils. Simply inhale the essential oil straight from the container. You may also inhale it by putting some drops on a piece of cloth and taking a deep breath.
2. Adding drops to your bath
Another option to get the advantages of essential oils is to add them to water while having a bath and relax for a few minutes to allow your body to absorb them.
3. Diffuser
The diffuser is another popular and effective way to use essential oils. Simply combine the essential oils with water and then turning the diffuser on. It will spread the essence throughout the air. Since each diffuser has a distinct oil-to-water ratio, follow the instructions carefully.
4. Steam
Steam inhalation is an age-old remedy for a variety of health problems. Add a few drops of essential oil to hot water and inhale the steam.
5. Ingestion
Some people who use essential oils choose to take them orally. However, this is not as healthy or safe as it sounds. Essential oils are plant extracts, which means they are not refined and may include toxic compounds that could damage your health. To learn about consuming essential oils for specific health issues, consult a qualified herbalist.
6. Applying to skin
This is another good approach to reap the advantages of essential oils. However, you must take precautions when using some oils in this way. Some may cause irritation when applied directly to your skin. But, some carrier oils, such as Jojoba oil and coconut oil, can be used directly. Carrier oils are seed and nut extracts. Before using essential oils on your skin, combine them with a carrier oil. But, make sure you thoroughly read the label for instructions, and the best practice is to get professional help.
7. Candles and jewelry
When burning scented candles, add a couple drops and the aroma will spread. Also, some pieces of jewelry specifically designed for aromatherapy are an amazing method to inhale the aroma of essential oils.
The Best Essential Oils
1. Lavender
Lavender is one of the most popular and effective essential oils. It provides calm and relaxation. Lavender oil can be applied directly on the skin by combining it with a carrier oil.
If you have insomnia or are anxious, you can use lavender oil to help you sleep or ease your nerves. Simply rub it on your feet or put a few drops on your pillow.
2. Chamomile
Chamomile essential oil is another popular option and comes in two varieties: Roman chamomile and German chamomile. Their appearance and active ingredient properties vary slightly.
Chamomile oil is helpful to relieve stress, treat digestion problems, certain skin disorders, and anti-inflammation.
For instant effects, inhale it. If you want to apply it to your skin, combine it with a carrier oil.
3. Eucalyptus oil
Are you concerned about a cough and chest congestion? For relief, inhale steam with eucalyptus oil. The results are better than VIX VapoRub. It is also an insect and mosquito repellant.
Some Precautions
Aromatherapy has been around for centuries, but while it offers many advantages, using essential oils can carry some risks. Here are some tips:
1. Read the label
Before applying any essential oil straight to your skin, check the label to confirm if it is safe to do so or if there are any precautions you should take. Some oils, such as grapefruit, lime, and green mandarin, may be harmful when exposed to sunlight. Always check the label of your essential oil for any risks or specific instructions.
2. Consult a naturopath or qualified herbalist
Get a professional opinion before ingesting any essential oils, as some oils are toxic.
3. Choose natural, organic oils
Be sure that your essential oil is entirely natural with no artificial aroma or ingredients added. Buying organic may be a little more expensive, but the advantages are worthwhile.
Essential oils and aromatherapy have a long history of healing, and we are discovering more of their benefits every day. At Green Schools Green Future, we think nature has therapeutic capabilities and we only need to unlock them.
