The Facts About Aromatherapy

We’ve all seen those neat little brown bottles in the local health food store. Don’t they look mysterious and intriguing? You’ve probably even seen some of those bottles with outrageous claims like “clear your breathing,” or “disinfect wounds,” or how about “cures cancer?” But are these claims really outrageous? Isn’t it time you learned the facts about aromatherapy?

So what is aromatherapy? The process of extracting oils from aromatic plant materials has been around for at least a millennia however the term aromatherapy was only coined during the 1920’s.

As with everything there are always those that tend to exaggerate. You will find some that will claim that aromatherapy can cure AIDS, cancer, the common cold, or disinfect a wound. Now what’s the old saying if it sounds too good to be true it is.

That applies to aromatherapy too. Yes essential oils can disinfect a wound and treat infection, yes essential oils can make your cold or influenza feel better, yes there are essential oils that are natural bug repellents but the outrageous claims no aromatherapy is no more a magic bullet than anything else. It is simply another tool to add to our arsenal and it’s a good tool!

And as with any type of treatment or product what works for one may not work for another and what one person lies another person may not care for. So you need to be ready to invest some time to find what works for you.

Aromatherapy can be used to treat minor physical ailments and it can do great things for your emotional well being. Tea tree is an excellent antibacterial that is perfect for cuts, wounds, and minor burns but 1st degree burns need to always be treated by a doctor. Citronella will keep the bugs away naturally without exposing your family to dangerous chemicals like Deet. Lavender is excellent for headache and to relieve stress. Eucalyptus will help clear congestion for a cold. The list could on and on but aromatherapy is not going to cure a terminal illness. Use common sense.

Essential oils are the backbone of aromatherapy and they are a powerful force to reckon with. That means if they are not used properly they can be harmful so always follow the oil maker’s directions.

You should never use undiluted aromatherapy oils directly on your skin. They must always be diluted with a base oil such as almond oil. You should also do an allergy test the first time you try an oil. And remember these oils are flammable so use caution when using around an open flame in a burner.

Not all essential oils are suited for aromatherapy. For example wintergreen, camphor, or sassafras should be used only by a licensed practitioner. There are others so heed warnings.

When it comes to essential oils and aromatherapy less always means more. These oils are so pure that when you are mixing products you will only require drops. Follow the directions carefully.

If you are pregnant, suspect you might be pregnant avoid the use of essential oils associated with aromatherapy. If you have asthma, epilepsy, other respiratory ailments, other health issues consult your doctor before using any oils. Never swallow or ingest oils always apply only to the skin diluted and inhale through a diluted vapor.

Aromatherapy is a great way to take care of minor injuries and ailments and it’s an amazing way to relax and rid yourself of the stresses of the day. Don’t miss out!

Aromatherapy Main

Home
Contact Us
About Us

More information about Aromatherapy

Create Your Own Spa With Aromatherapy Soap

The Facts About Aromatherapy

Uses For Aromatherapy Essential Oil

Which Is Your Favorite Aromatherapy Product?

Why You Should Turn To An Aromatherapy Oil

You Should Use An Aromatherapy Diffuser?