Wednesday, December 31, 2014

What is Aromatherapy?

~ Yvette Ladd, author

Essential oils have been used for thousands of years for physical and emotional health, in medical, ritual and spiritual activities. Loosely defined, aromatherapy is the use of scent for therapeutic purpose (VGC). However, as the word therapy suggests, knowledge and skill are a vital aspect of safely and successfully using aromatherapy and essential oils as a tool in preventative self-care and healing.  

Essential oils are derived from plants. They may be taken from the roots, stems, leaves or flowers and a given plant part will determine the essence or unique attributes of a given oil. Chemical constituents determine the therapeutic properties of a given oil. Most oils contain a variety of constituents making them useful for a wide array of health concerns. Lavender, for example, is best known as a calming agent but also has properties that may offer relief of pain, inflammation, insomnia, depression, anxiety, hay fever, infection and numerous other symptoms and health imbalances.(ME) 

The method of delivery will influence the effect of an essential oil. Inhaled essential oils can be used to access our mental and emotional stores. The olfactory system connects our sense of smell to the limbic system of the brain. We have all experienced déjà-vu when a particular smell has triggered a memory or emotion. Oils can also be applied to the body (some must be diluted first). Oils applied to the skin may have a localized or a systemic effect depending on their absorption and a few can penetrate the blood/brain barrier. Some aromatherapy practitioners advise against ingesting oils while others believe that some oils can safely be taken by mouth. 

Oils can have both medicinal and harmful effects. Some oils are not safe for human use.  
In general, one should take time to educate themselves or work with a knowledgeable practitioner prior to using essential oils. Additional caution is advised for oils used for children, those who are pregnant, seriously ill or with compromised immunity (as in multiple allergies). Some oils can interact with medications. 

When using essential oils, quality is essential. Growth environment, harvesting practices, plant parts and method of extraction will all influence oil quality. Plants are best grown in their indigenous countries and regions and in a method that is sustainable to the plant and the environment. Like other plant substances such as food and medicine, the energetics of plant handling get transferred to an oil and to the cells throughout your body. It is important to use pure, therapeutic grade oils from a company that respects these variables and is willing to share their methods of bringing their oils to market. 

Essential oils and aromatherapy can be a complimentary and alternative approach to matters of health if approached respectfully and with appreciation and knowledge of their properties. 

The following resources were consulted in creating this post and are suggested for further exploration of this topic: 

  • Aromatherapy: A lifetime guide to healing with essential oils ~ Valerie Gennari Cooksley 

  • Modern Essentials: A Contemporary Guide to the Therapeutic Use of Essential Oils, 6th Ed. ~ AromaTools, Inc. 

  • 50 Best Essential Oils Recipes: Discover the Power of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy for Natural Remedies ~ Jessie Huff   (ebook) 


And so it begins...

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- The Staff of MAMAW