Aromatherapy
is derived from the ancient practice of using pure essential oils obtained from
plants. The appropriate aromatherapy oils can have powerful results, both on the
body and the spirit.
Essential oils are used for many different reasons
and in a number of different ways. They have a profound effect on the central
nervous system, relieving depression and anxiety, reducing stress, and relaxing.
They can also be used for more physical problems such as muscle aches and pains,
headaches, depression, colds and flu. Many of the oils have powerful antibacterial
and antiviral qualities which, unlike pharmaceutical drugs, do not leave behind
dangerous toxins.
Aromatherapy oils are often used in baths,
compresses, massage, and for spy
therapy. Oils can be added to soaps,
lotions
and creams for skin care and hygiene. However, artificially made substitutes for
pure essential oils can not produce these amazing results. |
There
is a range of detailed information on aromatherapy oils usage:
| | Bergamot
The oil is a light greenish yellow liquid with an uplifting citrus aroma and balsamic
overtones. It was originally used for the treatment of fever and intestinal worms.
The antiseptic qualities of bergamot make it ideal for the treatments of all infections
of the skin. In helping with mental states the oil is valuable for its uplifting
effects. For tension anxiety or depression bergamot should be used in a massage
oil or in a bath or as a local wash at a 1% dilution. Remember! Bergamot oil should
never be used undiluted on the skin. Severe burning may result!
Eucalyptus
A colorless liquid with a camphoraceous odor and woody-sweet undertone. The oil
can help ease a wide assortment of ailments: muscular aches and pains, bronchitis,
throat infections, cystitis, neuralgia, asthma, herpes. Moreover, eucalyptus oil
is used as a fragrance component in soaps, detergents and toiletries.
Geranium
It was used by the ancients as a remedy for wounds and tumors. Geranium essential
oil is a mild analgesic and sedative, and may be used for neuralgia. Geranium
is often used in the treatment of inflammation, with its mild, soothing effect.
The oil also has great value in skin care and can be used on almost any type of
skin.
Lavender
The
oil is good for relaxing and balancing for mind and body. Aids sleep, soothes
tired muscles, benefits the immune system encourages stillness and tranquility.
Has some antiseptic qualities and is useful for the skin.
Mandarin
The essential oil has a delicate odor true to the scent of the fruit and is golden
yellow in color. A major application of Mandarin is in treating digestive problems
as it has a tonic and stimulating effect on both the stomach and the liver. Mandarin
is also useful for treating oily skin, common acne and spots.
Orange
The oil has a very comforting and warming effect. Dispels tension and stress and
revives when feeling bored and lacking energy. It has a beneficial effect on colds,
bronchitis and fever. It is also helpful with muscular pains, anxiety and insomnia.
The oil is also an excellent skin tonic. Remember! Do not expose your skin to
the sun for about 2 hours after its application.
Sandalwood
The oil is a powerful urinary anti-septic. It is a pulmonary anti-septic useful
in the treatment of dry, persistent coughs. The soothing of sore throats is an
effective application for the oil. It also has a strong effect on other throat
conditions such as laryngitis. Other uses include dry eczema, relief of itching
and inflammations, sensitive skin, tension, stress, nausea and vomiting and sunstroke.
Tea Tree
As a powerful anti-viral agent, Tea Tree is effective in fighting many common
infectious diseases such as measles, chicken pox, flu, cold and shingles. It has
immuno-stimulant properties, and its possible application to AIDS is also currently
being researched.
| |
|
|
