Posts Tagged ‘Aromatherapy’

Newer Entries »

Aromatherapy Herbs and Benefits

Thursday, March 19th, 2009

Aromatherapy is one of the most valuable fields of alternative medicine today and its therapies for the treatment and prevention of various conditions remains very relevant. The practice of aromatherapy revolves largely around the use of herbal oils and essences, which is why aromatherapy herbs are so important. Herbs are the main ingredient in the preparation of essential oils and candles, and these herbs offer a lot of medical benefits. The benefits of these aromatherapy herbs are far reaching and enhance your physical and mental health. Aromatherapy is extremely valuable particularly in the treatment of respiratory diseases and stress related disorders.

The healing properties of herbs have been recognized over the ages by numerous civilizations and cultures and they are also believed to strengthen the immune system. The herbs that are used are selected after intense research with knowledge spanning far back into the past. Aromatherapy herbs contain natural scents, and these scents which are so vital to aromatherapy are derived from the roots, stems, leaves, and other parts of these plants.

Here are five of some of the most well known aromatherapy herbs:

Garlic : Garlic is one of the most widely used of all herbs, and is in fact a common cooking ingredient. This herb is renowned for its anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-septic and anti-inflammatory properties. It useful for treating insect bites, controlling respiratory problems, lowering blood pressure, treating colds and coughs, and for enhancing the digestive functions.

Basil : This herb is also an attractive plant that adds aesthetic value. It can be used for aromatherapy baths or inhalation to reduce migraines, headaches and improve concentration.

Lavender : Lavender is another valuable aromatherapy flower herb that acts as a natural remedy for stress related conditions and sleep disorders like insomnia and anxiety. It’s not just a great relaxant, but also soothes and heals skin damage whether from insect bites, sun poisoning or fungal infections.

Tea Tree : This herb is effective against bacterial and fungal infections. It’s also useful for blisters and rashes, and for treating a number of respiratory problems.

Rosemary : Rosemary is commonly used to treat circulatory problems, anxiety, arthritis, digestive disorders, muscle aches, and a variety of other ailment.

Some other aromatherapy herbs that are just as important and widely used include seaweed, dandelion, nettle and aloe vera. Thyme, spearmint, gardenia, sassafra sandalwood, neroli, myrrh, palmarosa, pine, and nutmeg are just a few of the many other herbs used in aromather

Tags: , ,
Posted in Aromatherapy | No Comments »

Essential oils used in aromatherapy

Tuesday, March 3rd, 2009

Aromatherapy has been practiced since ancient times. The Chinese, Romans, Persians, Greeks and Egyptians have been using essential oils to treat health problems for thousands of years. They used it for curative as well as cosmetic purposes, and in baths and massages.

Essential oils are derived from plants and herbs by the process of steam distillation. These oils from aromatic plants are infused with healing and medicinal properties, and used in the right quantities and in the right way, can offer a healing experience. Essential oils are used in candles, massage oils, baths, in shampoos, soaps, perfumes and lotions. When these products are used, they have a relaxing, uplifting and healing affect. Essential oils are also associated with emotions and emotional well being. If you are angry, stressed, anxious or troubled, you can use essential oils to soothe yourselves.

Here is how they help:

  • For anger, you can use Rose, Roman Chamomile, Petitgrain, Patchouli, Orange, Neroli, Jasmine and Bergamot.
  • For anxiety, you can use Dandalwood, Rose, Roman Chamomile, Patchouli, Neroli, Mandarin, Labender, Geranium, Frankincense, Cedar wood and Bergamot.
  • For inducing confidence, use Rosemary, Orange, Jasmine, Grapefruit, Cypress, Beramot and Bay Laurel.
  • For curing depression, use Ylang Ylang, Sandalwood, Rose, Orange, Neroli, Mandarin, Lemon, Lavender, Jasmine, Geranium, Clary Sage and Bergamot.
  • For combating fatigue and burnout, use Vetiver, Sandalwood, Rosemary, Peppermint, Patchouli, Lemon, Jasmine, Helichrysum, Ginger, Cypress, Black Pepper, Bergamot and Basil.
  • For dispelling fear, use Vetiver, Sandalwood, Chamomile, Orange, Neroli, Lemon, Jasmine, Grapefruit, Frankincense, Clary Sage, Cedar wood and Bergamot.
  • For grief, use Vetiver, Sandalwood, Rose, Neroli, Helichrysum, Frankincense and Cypress.
  • For happiness and peace, use Rose, Sandalwood, Orange, Geranium, Bergamot, Ylang Ylang.
  • Apart from these, there are essential oils for men, such as Vanilla, Vetiver, Black Pepper, Ginger, Cypress, Bay, Oak moss, Sandalwood and Patchouli. Men also benefit from the use of floral essential oils like lavender, jasmine and neroli.


Safety information: While essential oils are useful and healing, they can also be dangerous if not used properly. These oils are very strong and have powerful properties, so certain guidelines need to be followed while using essential oils.

Essential oils should always be diluted before applying them on the skin. Sometimes aromatherapy practitioners can use undiluted essential oils for treatment, but it would be unwise and dangerous for an inexperienced, untrained person to attempt this.
Some people have sensitive skin and the oils can cause an allergic reaction. So before you use the oils, we suggest that you do a patch test on a small area of your skin to see if the oil causes any allergy or not. Wait for 24 hours to check the reactions, if any.

If you are pregnant or have asthma or any other health condition, we suggest that you consult a doctor and therapist instead of trying out oils on your own. This is because some oils are not recommended in such con

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Treatments | No Comments »

Newer Entries »