Aromatherapy - Use of Essential Oils to Enhance the Feeling of Well-being

Aromatherapy - Use of Essential Oils to Enhance Well-being
by Anna Wagner (Guest Author - FIT Major in Fragrance and Cosmetics) & Dr. Shamil 

  

The use of essential oils has been practiced throughout the world and in countless cultures. Some of the first recorded uses of them were by Egyptians around 4500 B.C. and 2600 B.C. in China. And while they didn’t fully understand the science behind it, they knew these essential oils were impacting their lives in a positive way. Beyond healing and health, they were used also for religious purposes and even magic.

In early Egypt rich fragrant materials were used in incense, perfumes, and ointments; often used to appease their gods. They were fond of exotic ingredients such as myrrh, frankincense, cinnamon, cedarwood and galbanum. In other parts of the world like China and India these fragrant materials were often important in healing practices. In India cedarwood and cinnamon were also popular, but also ingredients like ginger and camphor. In Qing Dynasty China, it was reported Empress Cixi was fond of fragrant oils such as orange blossom, rose, and jasmine.

And if you look at any other culture throughout the world you’ll see similar deep rooted traditions that surround the use of fragrant materials. It's no surprise that not only has the use has carried on to today, but has become a science and an art.

In 1937 French chemist and perfumer René-Maurice Gattefossé coined the term “aromatherapie”. In early experiments Gattefossé discovered the healing powers of lavender essential oil. Later he continued his studies in military hospitals where he used oils such as lavender, thyme, and clove for their antiseptic qualities. Many of the oils were great in treating wounds, but he also did studies involving essential oils in the curing of cancers and ulcers. Distinguishing the medicinal uses from their perfumery applications was essential to his research.

In today’s world essential oils are still used as alternative medicines for both physical and mental wellbeing. And while Gattefossé was ahead of his time with his research, modern science has been able to evaluate just what happens to our bodies when we come into contact with essential oils.

The sense of smell is the most sensitive of the five senses - 10,000 times more sensitive than any of our senses in fact. Smell is processed in the olfactory bulb where it sends messages to the most primitive parts of the brain that influence memories and emotions. The molecules of essential oils are easily inhaled due to their ability to quickly evaporate. When they enter the nose and are process by the olfactory bulb they trigger our emotions. This way they can be used to reduce stress, boost mood, and improve focus. Studies on aromatherapy even show its powerful use in treating depressive symptoms.

 For relaxing and reducing tension you could try inhaling or diffusing an essential oil of lavender or rose. Lavender also has many other great uses such as a sleep aid and reducing nausea symptoms. Peppermint and cinnamon oils are great for reducing food cravings and appetite. To spice up your love life try using sandalwood or neroli oils as potent aphrodisiacs.

Essential oils not only soothe your mind but have an abundance of uses in healing your body. Many essential oils have antifungal and antibacterial properties. Applied topically they can be used to treat skin conditions such as burns, cuts, and reduce inflammation. Medicinal grade oregano oil has been found to be a strong antibiotic and helps to reduce disease causing inflammation. Lavender and peppermint oils applied to your temples can help relieve migraines. Ginger oil has been shown to lessen pains associated with arthritis. Studies have even found that frankincense can kill cancer cells!

There is a myriad of different essential oils, each with their different uses. Play around with them on their own or mixed together to see which soothes and heals you the best. Aromatherapy is about finding your best self-guided by the powers of scent.

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