Aromatherapy is a very misunderstood practice. The very name “aromatherapy” suggests that the oils work through inhalation. Whilst this is partly true it goes much deeper than that. The molecules in the oils are small enough to pass through the skin and into the blood stream, where they travel around the body and work where they are needed.
Aromatherapy is a very ancient art, although the name goes back only a couple of hundred years. We know that essential oils were used by the ancients - Egyptians, Greeks and Indians and probably others. Frankincense and Myrrh were mentioned in the bible and Frankincense was known as the King of Oils because it was beyond price. Egyptians used Frankincense to cure breast cancer and research is being done today on Boswellia – a component found in Frankincense – to uncover its effects on cancer cells.
The oils themselves have multiple benefits. Peppermint oil, for example, can treat muscle aches and pains, headache, stomach and digestive issues. It can be used to treat coughs and colds, reduce pain, improve mental function, depression and reduce stress. It can also be used for nausea, diarrhoea, menstrual cramps and flatulence. It is anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antibacterial. Mice and rats hate the smell of it and will stay away from where it is sprinkled.
Studies have also been done on the effects of massage –v- massage with essential oils on the elderly and those with dementia and it is deemed more effective than massage alone – reducing falls and agitation.
Although there are other ways of administering aromatherapy my preferred choice is to use massage. Whilst our sense of smell is arguably our most ancient sense there is no denying the benefits of physical contact. In fact, this is what was missed most during the Covid lockdowns.
When I offer a client a treatment the oils are specifically chosen to reflect the reason they have come to me. Often there is something underlying the initial approach and it becomes clear to me as I work. I work instinctively with my clients and choose to use a spiritual approach to my work. I introduce Reiki into the massage as this helps to induce a state of deep relaxation, allowing both the massage and the oils to work more effectively.
I hope this gives a clearer insight into the benefits of aromatherapy and how the oils work. I can only suggest that you try it for yourself.
Elaine Brown
Aromatherapy, Ayurvedic Head Massage, Gua Sha Facial and Remedial Pedicures
Workshops at Therapies.
Call Elaine on 07596 979455
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