Aromatherapy Methods

Aroma means an agreeable odor or fragrance; therapy means treatment of an illness or disability. Aromatherapy means treatment of illness or disability by means of fragrances. More than 3500 years ago the effects caused by agreeable or disagreeable smells on mind and body had been understood, and in the ancient China, India, Egypt this knowledge was being put to use. A large body of knowledge in this direction exists today and is being used. Unfortunately the Western world has not fully recognized this but they are catching on as the new generations seek alternative healing treatments.

Aromatherapy concerns itself with the use of essential oils in combination with other similar ingredients being used in suitable ways to effect beneficial changes to the mind and body. Natural substances are more readily accepted and absorbed by the body and do not have some of the harmful or undesirable effects of synthetic preparations.

Taking this into account, aromatherapy methods exploit the sense of smell and feel. Essential oils are blended with other ingredients and even a drop or two of these blends when placed on a tissue in a room could spread the fragrance and generate the feeling of well-being, or counteract viruses. If these essential oils are added into candle wax in appropriate manner, the aromatic candles when burnt release the beneficial fragrances gradually to produce the desired effect. Home made aromatic candles in many unusual and attractive forms and colors are quite popular.

A few drops of these blended oils when used for massage can fight fungi and microbes or relieve pain by triggering thermal sensors in the skin. Many essential oils are used as very effective salves in case of severe burns. Glycerin soap with appropriate additives of these oils result in soap which not only cleanses the skin but also acts as a germicide; it also releases pleasant fragrances refreshing the mind as well as the body. Home made aromatic soaps are also available in many attractive shapes, colors and are quite popular.

Aromatherapy methods also include internal consumption. Various formulations of these essential oils and their other accompaniments are prescribed for internal consumption in specific illnesses. They trigger immunity systems in the body and effect cure in a more natural process. Aromatherapy methods are also used for making cosmetic preparations to improve skin condition and complexion or shampoos for healthy hair. Aromatherapy methods can also be used to produce potent blends of essential oils that repel mosquitoes, thus preventing diseases.