Aromatherapy is the practice of using the natural oils to enhance psychological and physical well-being. Essential oils have been selling points in beauty and cleaning products and now research proves that when inhaled properly, they’re also good medicine. Their power to heal and cure is so effective that, under the supervision of a natural health expert and herbalist it could benefit your health – but only if done right. Here are the top essential oils/scents/fragrances that has the power to heal:
LEMON
Lemon is widely appreciated for its clean smell, but has numerous therapeutic qualities as well. It improves concentration, aids in digestion and eases symptoms of acne and arthritis. It is a natural immunity booster, Refreshes and uplifts, disinfects and improves concentration.
To Use: Lemon oil is a terrific fragrance for the house, given its lemony-fresh scent. Add a few drops of lemon oil to the vaporizer for enhanced energy
PEPPERMINT
Peppermint essential oil is best for stress relief and headache. Research shows that breathing in eau de peppermint can decrease the body’s levels of cortisol, a stress hormone. Bonus? Reduces both fatigue and (score!) chocolate cravings.
To use: Sprinkle few drops of peppermint oil on your handkerchief and inhale the scent.
LAVENDER
Lavender is one of the most popular essential oils on the market and is an effective stress-relieving oil. Sniffing lavender is best for relaxation and promotes sleep. This scent can trigger the body’s “rest and digest” response, promoting relaxation. Research shows that lavender increases deep slow-wave sleep, and helps people with mild insomnia.
To use: Place a potted lavender plant near your bed or night stand.
ORANGE
In a study, researchers wafted the smell of oranges before some participants and lavender before others. The two groups felt less anxious, more positive, and calmer, compared with participants who were exposed to no fragrance at all.
To use: Add a few drops of either oil to a room diffuser and use in your office on stressful days.
While cinnamon adds a warm, cozy smell to any setting, its sweet, warm and spicy scent might also be boosting your brain power.
To use: Dab on the inside of your wrist.
JASMINE
The powerful little flower’s scent is being used to control depressive thoughts and get people more energetic for their day. It calms nerves; promotes relaxation
To Use: Add some drops to your bathwater.
SOME SCENTS THAT CAN BE BLENDED FOR A HEALING AROMATHERAPHY:
- Fatigue: basil, angelica, cedarwood, clove, eucalyptus, jasmine, frankincense, lemon, neroli, peppermint, patchouli, and vanilla.
- Lung/sinus congestion: angelica, basil, cedarwood, clove, cypress, eucalyptus, fennel, ginger, hyssop, juniper, rosemary, tea tree, and marjoram.
- Anxiety: lavender, melissa, myrrh, bergamot, cardamom, chamomile, cypress, frankincense, rose, pine, vanilla, marjoram, neroli, nutmeg, patchouli, and orange/lime.
- Headaches: basil, chamomile, cinnamon, ginger, eucalyptus, lavender, lemon grass, melissa, marjoram, peppermint, thyme, ylang ylang, and clary sage.
HOW DO THEY HELP?
When inhaled, the oils activate your brain’s hypothalamus, which controls hormones, energy, and drive, different fragrances trigger different responses in the brain, which, in turn, directs your nervous system to, say, chill out or spring into action. You should ask your integrative practitioner on how to best put that scent into your healing regimen.
*Note*: The information in this article is intended for your educational use only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and before undertaking any aromatherapy practices or using any essential oils. Also, avoid essential oils during pregnancy.