Aromatherapy, also known as essential oils therapy, refers to the therapeutic use of essential oils that are absorbed by the skin or olfactory system. Essential oils are plant-based and help enhance the overall physical and psychological well-being. Though the history of the use of distilled plant materials dates back to over two thousand years ago, the term “aromatherapy” was first used by Rene Maurice Gattefosse in the early 20th century in his book “Aromatherapie”.
Different essential oils render different results, thus you must use the right essential oils for desired effects. While some essential oils can help you experience relaxation and a sense of calm, some essential oils can help keep you alert and more focused. You can choose aromatherapy for a variety of purposes, such as lower stress, boost energy, lift a depression, enjoy a good night’s sleep, and more.
Is Aromatherapy Effective? Does Aromatherapy Work?
While patients have claimed to report diverse benefits of aromatherapy, most research regarding aromatherapy has been focused on its use to manage depression, anxiety, muscle tension, sleep problems, nausea, and pain.
Many studies suggest that aromatherapy can result in quick pain reduction and improving pulse, blood pressure, skin temperature, and brain activity.
While there are various areas where aromatherapy can do wonders, aromatherapy is scientifically proven effective in treating anxiety and improving emotional and spiritual conditions even when suffering from a disease, such as ESRD.
Due to the low cost and minimal side-effects associated with aromatherapy, nowadays, many patients are attracted to aromatherapy, and even many healthcare providers are recommending the use of aromatherapy in combination with conventional treatments. What’s more, essential oils used in aromatherapy are recognized as safe by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
How are essential oils used during aromatherapy?
Most commonly, an essential oil is applied topically after adding it to carrier oil and then used for massage therapy. However, essentials oils can also be absorbed through inhalation. Till now, more than 40 plant derivatives have been identified to be beneficial for therapeutic use. However, lavender, eucalyptus, rosemary, chamomile, and peppermint are the most frequently used essential oils.
Some people might be allergic to particular essential oil or aroma. Thus, it is advised to apply essential oil on the small area of skin first and test if your skin is compatible with that type of oil or not.
What are the benefits of using essential oils therapy?
Most essential oils are known to have antiseptic properties and help fight infection. Many of them can help reduce aches and pain, reduce spasm and inflammation, stimulate the immune system, promote hormone production, impact blood circulation, open nasal passages, and more.
Various essential oils perform more than one function. So with the use of the right essential oil or the right combination of two essential oils, you can treat a wide range of common physical ailments and emotional problems. What’s best about aromatherapy is that your massage therapist can apply a blend of oils that will offer the benefit of both or more oils (used in the blend) in one aromatherapy treatment.
To make aromatherapy work for you, it is critical that the right essential oils are used, and they are applied and massaged the right way. Thus, when you look for aromatherapy treatment near you, make sure that your massage therapist is properly qualified to offer aromatherapy.
Are you looking for a licensed massage therapist in Philadelphia for aromatherapy? If yes, book an appointment with Justin Shelley – Licensed Massage Therapist, or contact us at +1-267-252-7658 if you have any queries related to aromatherapy.