Aromatherapy: 7 Essential Oils to Soothe Your Mind and Uplift Your Mood

Aromatherapy is an ancient healing art which uses the natural perfumes of plants - essential oils - to help prevent and treat health problems. It can help you relax, lift your mood and even sharpen concentration.

This practice of using fragrances to relax and heal the body has been around for thousands of years and dates back to ancient Chinese civilizations. Aromatic oils are used for a variety of medicinal purposes by both professionals and for self-help.

How does it work?
Aromatherapy can be used to treat conditions like insomnia, headache and migraine, depression, digestive problems, skin complaints, poor circulation, rheumatism, sinusitis, anxiety and stress. It is also used in conventional medicine to treat diseases like cancer, mental illness and muscular problems.

How to use the oils?
One of the simplest and most common ways of using essential oils is by diluting them in a carrier oil such as coconut or almond oil and then massaging them into the skin. This is thought to make the most of the fragrant oils because they are absorbed through the skin and seep into the bloodstream. At the same time, the scent reaches our nervous system through the sense of smell. The oils can also be added to bath water, used in inhalations, compresses and as room fragrances.

4 Ways To Play It Safe

1. Aromatherapists sometimes recommend taking pure oils internally. This is not recommended. You must not ingest oils without the advice of a qualified practitioner.


2. Pregnant women must be cautious about using aromatherapy, as some oils could be harmful to mother and baby. Ask a therapist for advice.


3. Never apply undiluted oils to the skin as they are likely to cause irritation. If you have sensitive skin, apply a diluted oild and leave overnight to determine if it's safe to use.


4. Essential oils should always be kept out of the reach of children.

7 most suitable essential oils for home treatment

1. Clary Sage
   Known in the Middle Ages for its ability to heal eye problems, it's used as a relaxant to reduce anxiety.


2. Lavender
   One of the most versatile oils, lavender is a classic remedy for aiding relaxation and trating insomnia.


3. Lemon
   Oil from the rind of lemons has antiseptic properties and is refreshing and invigorating.


4. Marjoram
   It has a delicate fragrance and is wonderfully calming and fortifying.


5. Neroli Oil
   
   Neroli oil, which has an orangy scent, helps calm the emotions and works as a sedative.


6. Rose
   Rose works as a powerful anti-depressant and of course roses have many meanings.


7. Ylang Ylang
   A sensuous, exotic oil, ylang ylang is reputed as a powerful aphrodisiac. It also has a sedative effect on the nervous system.

Reference:

Wikipedia - Aromatherapy
Aromaweb
Aromatherapy
Holistic Online - Aromatherapy