Aromatherapy and Essential Oils Ultimate Guide (Boxed Set): 3 Books In 1 Essential Oils and Aromatherapy Guide with Recipes, Uses and Benefits

Table of Contents

Is Aromatherapy Beneficial- How Aromatherapy Can Help Heal The Body

The Layman’s Guide to Aromatherapy

What Are Essential Oils and Aromatherapy?

Is Aromatherapy Beneficial- How Aromatherapy Can Help Heal The Body

An Inside Look At Aromatherapy

By: Alexander Brown

Chapter 1- An Introduction to Aromatherapy

As it pertains to alternative medicine, aromatherapy is one of those terms that many people have heard, but that few understand completely. Simply put, aromatherapy is the name given to using volatile plant oils, including essential oils, to boost a person’s physical, psychological and spiritual well being.

The term essential oil is come upon often in the discussion of aromatherapy, so it is important to understand just what an essential oil really is. Essential oils are the pure essence of the plant, and these oils have been determined to have benefits on both the psychological and the physical well being of patients who have tried them.It is also important to state that perfume oils, or fragrance oils, are not the same thing as essential oils.  Perfume oils and fragrance oils often contain synthetic chemicals, and they do not provide the same benefits as pure essential oils. Unfortunately, many manufacturers and retailers use the word aromatherapy when marketing products that contain chemicals and perfume oils, so it is important to read the list of ingredients when shopping for aromatherapy products.

Inhaling essential oils in the lungs is believed to provide both physical and psychological benefits. The aroma of the natural essential oils stimulates the brain, and the naturally occurring chemicals of the essential oil can provide a physical benefit as they are inhaled into the lungs.  It is important, however, to use essential oils properly and safely, as improper use can have very serious consequences.

In addition to inhalation, essential oils can also be directly applied to the skin to provide physical benefits. As these essential oils are absorbed into the bloodstream, their components are thought to provide help for a variety of beauty, hygiene and health issues. Since essential oils are so concentrated and pure, they should never be applied to the skin undiluted.  In order to apply essential oils to the skin, they should be mixed with carrier oils, which are essentially pure forms of vegetable oil used to dilute essential oils. Some oils commonly used as carrier oils include grapeseed oil, apricot kernel oil and sweet almond oil.

Essential oils can have other types of benefits in addition to those listed above. For example, some essential oils provide natural protections against insects and other pests. One example of an essential oil with this characteristic is citronella. Citronella oil is used in a variety of natural pest control products, and citronella candles are often burned at backyard get-togethers to keep mosquitoes and other flying pests at bay.

In addition to using essential oils on their own, different types of essential oils can be blended together to provide a particularly pleasant aroma and trigger a positive reaction in the body and the mind. There are a number of recipes available for such essential oil blends, and a number of readymade blends are available from health food stores and on the Internet.

When shopping for aromatherapy products, it is important to remember that not all products with the aromatherapy label are pure and beneficial.  It is important to read the list of ingredients carefully to ensure that no synthetic chemicals or fillers have been used, and that what you are buying are pure, unadulterated essential oils. It is also important to read the instructions for use carefully, and to use all aromatherapy products safely and in accordance with the directions of the manufacturer.

Chapter 2- A Guide to Essential Oils

Essential oils are generally extracted by distillation. The oil is derived from a single part of a plant, or in the case of some oils, from several parts of a plant. Because of their concentrated nature, essential oils should always be handled with care. As a general rule, they should not be applied directly to the skin, although there are a small number of oils that can be.

Before use, however, it’s always prudent to check your individual sensitivity to any oil by placing a smear on the underside of your forearm and if any reaction develops, wash it off immediately. There are many uses for oils, and they are most often blended with a carrier oil (also known as a base oil), such as olive or grapeseed when used on the skin. Anyone suffering from serious skin allergies or in the first months of pregnancy should also avoid using essential oils.

Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)

Bergamot has a delicate, clean, and slightly floral scent, and is reported to help relieve anxiety, stress, and loss of appetite. It is believed to have uplifting properties, and is used to create a relaxed feeling, dispelling anxiety and depression. Bergamot has antiseptic properties, and is recommended for the treatment of psoriasis, acne, and cold sores.

Cardamom (Elletaria cardamomum)

Cardamom’s fragrance is sweet and spicy. Its reported properties are stimulating and uplifting. Cardamom is believed to have aphrodisiac properties, and to help with digestion and combat nausea. Cardamom is recommended for sensitive skins, and in the treatment of eczema and psoriasis.

Clary sage (Salvia sclarea)

Clary sage has a musky, sweet, nutty scent with floral notes. It is reported to be a good relaxant, and to help with easing depression, and nervous exhaustion. It is also reported to be very beneficial to women in easing menstrual cramps, and helping with pre-menstrual syndrome. It is recommended for skin and hair treatments, as it is reported to have cell regenerating properties, as well as being a natural antiseptic and deodorizer.

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)

The scent of Eucalyptus is sharp and clear. It is believed to help strengthen the nervous system, and have cleansing qualities. It has strong antiseptic and antifungal properties, and is recommended for relief from catarrh, respiratory ailments, acne and facial blemishes.

Frankincense (Boswellia carterii)

Frankincense has a spicy, woody fragrance. It is reported to have a soothing and comforting effect on the mind, easing anxiety and nervous tension. With antiseptic and revitalizing qualities, it is good for