Aromatherapy has been a staple of holistic medicine for thousands of years. Ancient cultures were early to recognize the value of the natural substances around them and take advantage of plant components for therapeutic benefits. More recently, aromatherapy has also been recognized by more and more experts in modern science and medicine.
While there is still research to be done, this complementary therapy continues to help individuals manage and find relief from various symptoms and ailments.
Let’s better understand how aromatherapy works and the potential benefits so you can decide if this alternative treatment might be right for you!
What Is Aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is a form of holistic therapy that uses natural plant and flower extracts to promote physical and mental well-being. These extracts are called essential oils, and the practice is sometimes referred to as essential oil therapy. The primary goal of aromatherapy is to enhance an individual’s overall health and promote healing.
How Does Aromatherapy Work?
The scent of various essential oils stimulates the olfactory receptors in your nose, which then sends a message to your limbic system (in the brain) that causes your body to react. Aromatherapy also works through skin absorption of essential oils, most often via aromatherapy massage. There are many products on the market that help you use essential oils for aromatherapy, such as diffusers, spritzers, bath salts, topicals (lotions, balms), oil droplets, and even jewelry that absorbs oil and diffuses it while you wear it.
What Are the Benefits of Aromatherapy?
Different essential oils have different health benefits that can help treat various conditions. Some of those benefits include:
- Physical Essential Oil Benefits: reduce nausea, relieve pain & muscle aches, improve sleep quality, alleviate headache, boost energy, increase circulation, improve digestion, stimulate the immune system, reduce inflammation
- Mental Essential Oil Benefits: improve mood, promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, lower stress levels, reduce agitation
Dande-Lion Herb Shop carries an extensive selection of essential oils from multiple reputable brands to help you discover which scents and products work best for you. The experts at our shop in Glen Burnie, MD, can provide more information about the benefits of essential oils, help you choose the right ones for your needs, and show you how to use them for the greatest effect.
Call us at (410)768-8144 or stop by in-store to have your holistic medicine questions answered today!