 | ||||||
| ||||||
What is aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of aroma-producing oils (essential oils)
extracted from plants. Essential oils are extracted from a plant's flowers,
leaves, stalks, bark, rind, or roots. The oils are mixed with another
substance (such as oil, alcohol, or lotion) and then applied to the skin,
sprayed in the air, or inhaled. The oils can also be massaged into the skin
or poured into bath water. Aromatherapy originated in and has been practiced
in France and Europe since the 1920s.
The philosophy behind aromatherapy is that specific plant oils produce
fragrances that either stimulate or relax the body. Practitioners of
aromatherapy believe that the fragrances in the oils stimulate odor-sensing
nerves in the nose. Impulses are then sent to the part of the brain that
controls memory and emotion. Depending on the type of oil, the result on the
body may be calming or stimulating. The oils are thought to interact with the
body's hormones and enzymes to cause changes in blood pressure, pulse, and
other body functions. The fragrance of the oil plays a role in the specific
treatment. Another theory suggests that the odors of certain oils may
stimulate the body's glands to produce pain-fighting substances.
What is aromatherapy used for?
Practitioners of aromatherapy have used essential oils to treat a wide range
of physical and mental conditions, including burns, infections, depression,
insomnia, and high blood pressure.
Supporters of aromatherapy believe the oils may promote relaxation and help
relieve stress.
Is aromatherapy safe?
Practitioners of aromatherapy are not licensed in the United States. A wide
range of health professionals (such as massage therapists, nurses, and
counselors) may have experience and training in aromatherapy. It is important
to talk with your conventional health professional to see whether aromatherapy
may be helpful and safe for your specific health condition.
The oils used in aromatherapy are not meant to be swallowed. Many of the oils
are potent and can be dangerous if taken internally.
People with certain chronic illnesses or conditions should not use
aromatherapy without first consulting a health professional. These illnesses
and conditions include:
Asthma, respiratory allergies, or chronic lung disease. Volatile oils may
cause airway spasms.
Skin allergies. Some oils may cause skin irritation, especially in the
membranes of the eyes, nose, and mouth.
Pregnant women should not use aromatherapy. Some oils (such as juniper,
rosemary, and sage) may cause uterine contractions.
Aromatherapy should be avoided in children under the age of 5, since they can
be very sensitive to the oil.
Oils should not be used near the face, eyes, or mouth, since irritation of
the skin and membranes may occur.
Millions of spiritual creatures walk the earth Unseen, both when we wake and when we sleep.
~John Milton, Paradise Lost
FENUGREEK: Most recommended for lung problems such as bronchitis. Also good in the treatment of throat inflammation and as a poultice for external wounds.
Other Places To Visit
