Aromatherapy: Beneficial for Mind and Body
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Aromatherapy is a type of alternative medicine that has been used for ages especially for relaxation. However, this type of therapy can also be used to treat various other conditions. As a supplemental medicine, it mainly changes the cognitive state and improves the mood. Aromatherapy is highly practiced in India, the United States, England and France. Now let’s see how this therapy using scenting essential oils can help you.
Stress Relief
This is the best known use of aromatherapy. The aromatic compounds in the essential oils are extremely relaxant and they eliminate anxiety and soothe the mind. The most efficient essential oils for stress relief are ylang ylang, lemon, vetiver, lavender, peppermint and bergamot oils. You can mix them and use them in your own home to benefit from their miraculous properties. The lemon essential oil in particular can reduce the anger outbursts.
Improves Memory
Memory loss is a disease that affects numerous old people. Even though Alzheimer’s is an incurable disease, there are various remedies that can prevent or reduce its progression. Aromatherapy is one of these remedies. This supplemental treatment enhances the memory capacity for a few hours after you’ve stopped using it. Aromatherapy is refreshment for the brain and sage oil in particular is a memory booster.
Treats Headaches
Headaches are a common condition that can be caused by a wide array of factors. You can use over-the-counter medicines to get rid of an annoying headache or you can call on aromatherapy. Besides reducing the migraines, aromatherapy will also reduce your anxiety and stress levels. The most effective essential oils in combating the headaches are rosemary, peppermint, sandalwood and eucalyptus oils. At the same time, you can mix some or all of these oils and then apply the solution on your temples, neck, scalp and forehead. Other essential oils efficient in fighting against headaches are sesame, almond, coconut and avocado oils.
Combats Depression
The alternative medicine uses aromatherapy to treat depression. Keep in mind that this is only a complementary treatment, but it is useful in relaxing your mind and bringing on positive thoughts. You can reduce depression with jasmine, peppermint, lavender and chamomile essential oils.
Healing Properties
The essential oils used in aromatherapy are stimulants and they can speed up the healing process in the organism. Following an illness or a surgery, you can use aromatherapy to increase the blood flow and oxygen to wounds and promote external and internal healing. Some essential oils also have anti-microbial properties and they can protect the body during the various healing stages. The oils that you can use during a healing process are buckthorn, rosehip, calendula and lavender. Some of them also heal wounds and skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
Promotes Sleep
Aromatherapy is highly used by people suffering from insomnia and lacking energy. For a good night sleep you can use the following essential oils: ylang ylang, lavender, sweet marjoram, chamomile, rose, neroli, jasmine and chamomile oils.
Other uses of the aromatherapy are: boosting the immune system, aiding digestion, offering pain relief and enhancing the energy levels.