Aromatherapy Overview

What smells sweet, has few side effects, and can lift a headache or change a gray  mood to a happy one? Aromatherapy, or the use of essential oils to uplift moods and help with simple ailments. Since the time of the ancient Egyptians, oils extracted from plants have been used to scent cosmetics, soothe and heal. Today, these simple oils can be used as part of your herbal medicine chest or included as part of your daily beauty and stress relief routine.

Unlike herbs, which are usually taken as capsules, tisanes (teas) or tinctures, aromatherapy oils are inhaled or included in carrier oils and rubbed onto the skin. Their power is in their fragrance, rather than in any particular action upon the body. Some do have antimicrobial powers when rubbed into the skin.

Let's explore a few simple aromatherapy oils and their properties.


Lavender

Lavender has a beautiful, old-fashioned scent that was greatly prized as a perfume for centuries. Today we know that lavender essential oil also has antimicrobial properties. The scent of lavender is also said to be relaxing and promotes rest, calm and peace.

As an antimicrobial agent, lavender added to water for a hot compress used to treat boils or infections of the skin is a good idea. A few drops of lavender oil along with tea tree oil speeds healing and is thought to kill bacteria. Lavender also promotes restful sleep. Many natural health stores sell lavender sachets and pillows. Slide them into your pillowcase for a gentle scent. You can also put a few drops of lavender oil on a cotton ball or piece of cloth and place it on a dish on your night table. The dish keeps the essential oils from harming the finish on your furniture; some may discolor it.


Peppermint

Peppermint is an herb with so many wonderful uses that volumes have been written about it. Peppermint teas and tisanes soothe digestive upsets, while the aroma of peppermint oil can chase away a mild headache. It's a stimulant too, and can wake you up with one whiff, increasing energy and awareness.

Another little known use of peppermint oil, however, is a natural pest deterrent. Specifically, rodents hate the smell of it. Like many people who become raw vegans, I cannot stomach the thought of killing any animal, let alone a mouse that just happens to wander into my home. If I can catch them alive (and we can; my husband is now an ace at it) we let them go in the woods. To keep them away, however, you can use peppermint oil. Place a few drops on a cotton ball and stuff any holes or cracks that you think the mice are using as entrance ramps into your house with the cotton balls The smell is said to keep them away.

These are just two essential oils for health, beauty and natural home care. There are many oils available and a whole world to explore. Just remember to use any essential oils sparingly at first until you're sure of how much to use. Keep them away from children and pets as some may be poisonous. And do a patch test on the inside of your elbow if you're applying any to your skin to make sure you're not allergic. If any rashes or side effects occur, seek medical attention.



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These statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration.  The preceding information and/or products are for educational purposes only and are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, or treat illness. Please consult your doctor before making any changes or before starting ANY exercise or nutritional supplement program or before using this information or any product during pregnancy or if you have a serious medical condition.


Written by:  Jeanne Grunert
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