Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is one of oldest treatment that has been around for over 6000 years, even started during the very ancient times. For instance in Egypt aromatic essences were not only used in religious rituals but also in medication. In China the use of aromatic herbs and essential oils is a deeply-rooted tradition. Aromatherapy mainly uses volatile plants, herbs and essential oils to release aromatic scents for physical well-being. The word was first used in the year 1920s by a French chemist, Rene Maurice Gattefosse, when a perfume laboratory exploded and proved the healing effects of these aromatic blends of essences. During the Second World War, essential oils and aromatic herbs were also used to treat soldiers’ wounds and gangrenes.

Today aromatherapy is also popular among large population of health-conscious individuals and those seeking inner relaxation. How does aromatherapy affect the body system and how does it benefit the human health? Aromatic molecules that enter through the respiratory tract create many reactions to happen through the nerves, register them to the brain that eventually restore vitality, stimulate the senses, and promote a balanced state of the mind and spirit.

Essential oils at the same time are the main components of aromatherapy. These oils are extracted from plants and herbs that do not only give off aromatic scents but also possess medicinal effects to the human body. Scientific studies show that each aroma of a particular herb or oil has a corresponding effect to the human senses. The scents from essential oils produce therapeutic results and can also serve as disinfectants, air sterilisers, or anti-fungal agents when absorbed by the skin.

Types of Aromatherapy Applications
Aromatherapy can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. The most common way is an aerial diffusion. This is usually done to disinfect the environment, whether in a particular room or just within the proximity of the applied area. Like in the spas, the air inside is filled with an aroma that promotes a relaxing feeling. For a more therapeutic approach, direct inhalation is another way of enjoying the essence of aromatherapy. By directly inhaling the aromatic fragrance of essential oils or herbs, cleanses the respiratory system and disinfects the lungs whilst certain aroma can act as expectorants and decongestants. For most women, nothing can be more relaxing than enjoying aromatic fragrances with baths and massages. Topical application refers to the mixing of certain aromatic fragrances to massage oils or applying fragrant herbs to baths. (i.e. soaking in a tub full of rose petals; See more in ‘Baths and Meditation Category”)