Many people believe aromatherapy is simply a soothing massage using lovely scents. Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of concentrated plant essences (essential oils) to relieve stress, enhance health and well-being, prevent problems and support the healing process.
Essential oils are highly fragrant, volatile (quickly evaporating) fluids that occur naturally in aromatic plants growing the world over. They can be distilled from flowers, leaves, seeds, roots, fruits, and woods, depending on the plant. Essential oils that are commonly used in aromatherapy include lavender, geranium, bergamot, frankincense and rose, although there are many more available and all can be used to treat specific conditions.
Each essential oil has distinct therapeutic properties that can improve the body’s natural functioning and so help to prevent disease. They have been shown through research to possess stimulant, anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory and relaxant properties, among others.
The ability of essential oils to have a psychologically calming or uplifting effect is directly linked to the influence of their wonderful aromas – one that depends on the close relationship between olfaction (smelling) and the brain.
During aromatherapy massage the aroma of the essential oils can calm the mind and relax the nervous system. Relaxed and refreshed, we are able to face life’s challenges with a renewed sense of balance and confidence.