Benefits of Aromatherapy

carolina17 (56)in #naturalmedicine • 6 years ago

When we explore the world, we can get carried away by different types of sensations. One of the most powerful are the smells, that magical sense that leads us to evoke the power of memories. Through odors and aromatherapy, we can travel to different places and even find peace.

The use of aromatherapy began approximately in the year 4500 a. C., in the East. This is an alternative therapy in which it is possible to achieve a greater well-being through the inhalation of aromas and oils. In the West, this discipline began to popularize recently.

Through aromatherapy it is possible to find a great universe of aromas that promote a feeling of fullness, both physical and mental. Let's go deeper.

"Be like the sandalwood tree, which perfumes the ax that sometimes hurts."
-Anonymous-

What is aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is a discipline in which essential oils extracted from aromatic plants are used to improve well-being. She accompanies traditional medicine, promoting relaxation and health.

The aromas act in our mind on an unconscious level, transmitting different sensations. Therefore, in aromatherapy every aroma has a meaning and helps to balance a part of the body and mind.

The olfactory receptors receive the aromas, and these travel to our brain, where they are processed. On the one hand, this occurs in the limbic system, where we associate the different types of emotions with certain aromas; in the other, in the hippocampus, where the smells are related to memories. This part of our mind is responsible for memory. Thus, some oils have the power to transform what we think and feel.

In addition, odor is not the only effect associated with aromatherapy: touch also plays an important role. This happens because this therapy is carried out through essences that can also be applied to the body through massages.

Structure of a session

Aromatherapy sessions usually last 30 minutes. During each of them, the person must concentrate on himself, taking advantage of the present moment. In addition, aromatherapy can be done:

For inhalation. It consists of having different aromas for the person, in accordance with what is intended to be improved. You should inhale them directly or through diffusers.
Through the bathrooms. The aim is to get the person into a bathtub with hot water in which a few drops of aromatic oils are applied.
With massages. Several aromatic essences diluted in oils are used, and are applied through a massage on the person. It is mainly used to relieve muscle aches or for relaxation.

The three combined methods can also be used. The aromatherapy session is carried out by a specialist, who initially investigated the patient's physical and psychological health

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Who can use aromatherapy?

We can all use aromatherapy. Thus, whoever wants to get rid of tensions can experience this legendary technique. Now, in the field of health, it is especially indicated for people who have the following problems:

Chronic stress
The anxiety.
Insomnia.
Pain in the joints.
Respiratory diseases.
Skin problems.
Fatigue.
Muscle pains.
Digestive problems.
Cancer.
The Depression.

Although aromatherapy is useful in these conditions, we should not believe that it is the solution to all our problems. This therapy works best in combination with other methods of traditional medicine. That is, if you already use another type of treatment, you should not leave it. This discipline is not a substitute, but an accompaniment.

Aromatherapy essences

The world of aromas is infinite. Here we show some of the essences most used in aromatherapy:

*Jasmine. It helps fight stress and insomnia.

Almonds It promotes an improvement in the mood.
Geranium. Help with menstrual pains. It also brings tranquility.
Pepper. It helps reduce anxiety.
Rosemary. Relieves circulatory and rheumatic problems.
Ginger. It facilitates breathing and improves circulation.
Grapefruit. Fight against rabies
Cypress It is a revitalizing, relieves stress, fights allergies and reduces the symptoms of menopause.
Cinnamon . It is relaxing, reduces fatigue and relieves stress.
Roses It fights insomnia and improves depression.
Citrus Potentiate the feeling of calm.
Lavender. Improves skin problems, relaxes and relieves muscle problems.
Mint Helps fight congestion and relieve digestive problems.

In addition to these, there are many other essences in aromatherapy. Everything will depend on what the person needs and the decision of the specialist involved.

However, using any of these essences in the home can bring well-being. Now, for the use of essences effectively and prolonged well-being, it is convenient to work with a specialist. This can guide us in the magical world of aromas.

Benefits of aromatherapy

Aromatherapy has several benefits. Below we will show you some of them and explain how they work.

Promotes relaxation This occurs because it decreases the activation of our parasympathetic nervous system, which is what is activated in situations of stress. This is the effect of the aromas such as chamomile and lavender.
It reduces stress. By activating relaxation, aromatherapy facilitates the release of our problems.
It improves the quality of life, since it improves the physical and psychological well-being.
Help treat serious diseases. Aromatherapy is not synonymous with healing, but it helps the person release tension. This usually means a better prognosis in the treatment.
Improves libido. Activates and increases the energy through the blood flow.
Increase physical well-being. This happens because it helps improve digestion, circulation and muscle pain. In addition, it facilitates breathing.
Increase psychological well-being. This is done by helping to improve the symptoms of depression, anger, stress and anxiety.

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As we can see, aromatherapy is a wonderful universe in which each aroma offers something beneficial for our health. Let yourself get infected by the magic of the smells and encourages to experience this type of treatment. Each aroma will take you to a different place to enhance the best of you.