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How does Aromatherapy work?

How does Aromatherapy work?

How Aromatherapy works

Essential oils can be delivered through the skin - the body’s largest organ – when used in baths and massages, as well as in creams, compresses, facial toners and perfumes. The minute molecules of essential oils penetrate the skin via the hair follicles and sweat glands and are absorbed into the body fluids, where they not only help to kill bacteria and viruses but also stimulate the body's immune system assisting it with its natural healing process. It is important to note that because they are highly concentrated, only a small quantity of essential oil is required to bring about results.

The other method of absorption is through inhalation. This form of absorption is most efficient when inhaling essential oils from a tissue, diffusing them in a burner or vaporizer, or adding them to bathwater. With every breath, the olfactory bulb receives minute pieces of information from the environment and carries the fragrance molecules of an essential oil to the Limbic System (the area of the brain connected with the body’s basic drives such as hunger, thirst, breathing, sleep patterns, sex, emotions, and memories). This is the reason why essential oils have such a powerful effect on our moods and general state of mind.

Massage remains one of the most beneficial methods to enjoy aromatherapy. Many different techniques have been developed throughout history. Some examples of alternative massage therapies available today are the Ayurvedic massage, or the special forms of massage therapy developed by Dr. Ita Wegman. Through the massage one not only receives the therapeutic properties of the essential oils, but also the wonderful benefits of the massage itself. The therapeutic action of the essential oils when brought together with the revitalizing effects of massage stimulate all of the organs in the body, plus the skin, muscles, nerves and glands. The increased circulation of the blood and lymph flow also assists with the clearing away of body toxins.

Aromatherapy is somewhat of a “trend” term and is often used incorrectly. Due to the popular demand for all things “natural”, there are now a lot of synthetic oils and oil blends on the market which are often sold as “natural essential oils” or “aromatherapy kits.” This is very misleading to the consumer. Using the finest quality essential oils is absolutely vital in aromatherapy. The purity of the essential oils will determine how successful the treatment or products will be. Essential oils that have been adulterated will simply not deliver the expected health benefits. At worst, there is the risk of serious skin irritation or sensitisation due to an adverse reaction to the synthetic chemicals that have been used to adulterate, extend or 'standardise' the essential oil.

Learn more: Find out how lavender is used in aromatherapy.

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