Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the practice of using the natural oils extracted from flowers, bark, stems, leaves, roots or other parts of a plant to enhance psychological and physical well-being. The inhaled aroma from these “essential” oils is widely believed to stimulate brain function. Essential oils can also be absorbed through the skin, where they travel through the bloodstream and can promote whole-body healing. It is used for a variety of applications, including pain relief, mood enhancement and increased cognitive function. Aromatherapy has a variety of effects that are very unique to each individual. Mentally it will clear your brain and give you more focus. Physically it reduces cortisol levels, oxygenates the blood and relieves headaches and body aches. Emotionally it will balance you by either a calming sensation or uplifting sensation. Spiritually the oils will lift you to a higher cellular vibration. Create a proper mood, state of mind, or improve your physical well-being and begin to feel the release of negative emotions; the soothing of undue muscle tension, or experience the cleansing effect of the oils as your body eliminates toxins. Essential oils have been used for therapeutic purposes for nearly 6,000 years. The ancient Chinese, Egyptians and Greeks all used scented oils to heal emotional distress, treat physical afflictions, and increase spiritual awareness.
Physical, Mental, Emotional Stress & Imbalance
We are all faced with some level of stress in our lives. No matter how much we’d like to eliminate stress completely, that is nearly impossible. Stress can come in many forms including physical, mental or emotional. The prolonged reaction to stress created an imbalance in the body’s natural equilibrium. When the body is out of balance it is more vulnerable to disease, clouded clarity and illness. Aromatherapy is a great, natural compliment or alternative to other health treatments and practices.
Aromatherapy:
· Heal wounds
· Energize
· Improve skin tone
· Relax muscles
· Regulate hormones
· Reduce inflammation
· Relieve menstrual cramps
· Improve sleep
· Stimulate the immune system
· Kill fungal & bacterial infections
· Decrease sinus & lung congestion
· Aid digestion
· Relieve tension headaches
· Aid blood circulation
Aromatherapy Benefits:
Relaxation and stress relief
Mood enhancement, balance and well being
Relief of minor discomforts
Boosting the immune, respiratory and circulatory systems
Examples of Known Stressors & Essential Oils That Aid In Relief:
Depression & Guilt- Lavender, Bergamot, Geranium, Jasmine, Ylang Ylang, Rose, Vetiver, Sandalwood, Nutmeg and Grapefruit
Helplessness- Lavender, Rosemary, Neroli, and Grapefruit
General Anxiety- Lavender, Bergamot, Chamomile, Basil, Geranium, Frankincense, Melissa, Jasmine, Juniper, and Cypress
Insomnia- Lemon, Vetiver, Valerian, Chamomile, Neroli, Ylang Ylang, and Marjoram
Exhaustion- Peppermint, Jasmine, Lavender, Sage, Nutmeg, Sandalwood, Lemon, Cinnamon, Rose, and Basil
Nervous/Tense- Frankincense, Palma Rosa, Sage, Lavender, Bergamot, Sandalwood. Cedarwood, Cinnamon, Jasmine, and Vetiver
A Few Essential Oils & Therapeutic Qualities:
Bergamot is refreshing and uplifting with a sweet and spicy scent. It is used in treating acne, boils, chicken pox, colds, cold sores, cystitis, loss of appetite, mouth infections and sore throat.
Jasmine is used for treating anxiety, cough, depression, headache, mental tension and sensitive or dry skin. It has relaxing and soothing effects with a warm, floral scent.
Rose has a warm and floral scent and is an effective all-purpose oil. It can be used to fight depression, grief, and fear. It is also good for the heart, digestive system, and for treating PMS symptoms. In addition, Rose is one of the best oils to use on dry and sensitive skin.
Tea tree is one of the most used essentials oils because of its ability to stimulate the immune system. It fights infections of all kinds, including viruses, bacteria and fungi. It can also help clear the skin. Tea tree has a spicy and pungent smell.
Rosemary has a pronounced effect on the brain and central nervous system. It used for stimulating the brain, improving memory and increasing mental awareness. It has a refreshing, woody, herbal scent.
Lavender is a calming and relaxing oil and is effective in times of stress and crisis. It relieves tension, depression and nervous exhaustion. Lavender has a floral, sweet, woody and herbal scent.
Aromatherapy is Not Recommended for Individuals with Following Health Issues:
Allergies
Asthma
Sensitive skin
Epilepsy
Kidney or liver problems
Note:
Aromatherapy is not intended to cure major illnesses but it is effective at alleviating many of the discomforts associated with them.
Certain oils should not be used during pregnancy; chamomile, geranium, jasmine, lavender, neroli, patchouli, sandalwood, ylang ylang.
Intuitive Integrative Healing Art 