How Aromatherapy Works

Aromatherapy works by stimulating the olfactory system, which is the part of the brain responsible for processing smell. When you inhale an essential oil, the scent molecules travel up the nasal passage and bind to olfactory receptors. These receptors send signals to the brain, which can have a variety of effects, including:

• Reducing stress and anxiety
• Improving mood and cognitive function
• Promoting relaxation and sleep
• Relieving pain and inflammation
• Boosting the immune system

How to Use Aromatherapy for Healing

There are many different ways to use aromatherapy for healing. Here are a few popular methods:

• Inhalation: This is the simplest way to use aromatherapy. You can inhale essential oils directly from the bottle, or you can use a diffuser to disperse them into the air.  I use diffusers at home and work... (I have multiple diffusers scattered across the entire office) and I have been known to sniff lavender oil like it's a drug when things are crazy stressful.
• Massage: Diluting essential oils with a carrier oil, such as jojoba oil or almond oil, and massaging them into the skin is a great way to relieve pain, inflammation, and stress.
• Bath: Adding essential oils to your bathwater is a wonderful way to relax and rejuvenate.  Be careful using mint essential oils in the bath; make sure to add a carrier oil as well! (IT BURNS LIKE FIRE aske me how I know lol).
• Compresses: Applying a compress soaked in essential oil-infused water to the skin can help to reduce pain and inflammation.

Popular Essential Oils for Healing

Here are a few popular essential oils for healing:

• Lavender: Lavender is one of the most versatile essential oils. It is known for its calming and relaxing properties, making it ideal for treating stress, anxiety, and insomnia. Lavender can also be used to relieve pain and inflammation and to boost the immune system.
• Chamomile: Chamomile is another calming and relaxing essential oil. It is often used to promote sleep and to relieve anxiety. Chamomile can also be used to soothe digestive problems and reduce inflammation.
• Vetiver: Vetiver is a grounding and centering essential oil. It is often used to reduce stress and anxiety and to improve sleep quality. Vetiver can also be used to relieve pain and inflammation.  I love using this in a blend with eucalyptus because the scent blend reminds me of fresh, spring rain!
• Sandalwood: Sandalwood is a calming and relaxing essential oil. It is often used to promote meditation and to relieve anxiety. Sandalwood can also be used to heal skin conditions and reduce inflammation.

Safety Tips

Aromatherapy is thought to be generally safe for most people. However, it is important to follow some basic safety tips:

• Never ingest essential oils. They are highly concentrated and can be toxic if swallowed.
• Dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying them to the skin. This will help to prevent irritation.
• Avoid using essential oils on children and pregnant women.
• Do a patch test before using a new essential oil to make sure you are not allergic.
• Be cautious diffusing oils around pets!  I haven't had issues using any high-quality essential oils diffused around my home with my cats and dogs, but I have never used oils around birds or rodents before.

What aromatherapy are you going to try this week?