Physicians Health

Aromatherapy is not simply about scented oil and candles, as many of us imagine when hearing this term. Rather, it’s a form of alternative medicine that uses essential oils for healing or preventing a disease.

And the oil used is essential, because it has a typical odor or essence of a plant that is beneficial for treating a specific health-related problem.

The history of aromatherapy dates back to the time of ancient Egyptians, who used aromatic substances for worshiping their gods. They were keen to believe that the smoke went directly to heaven carrying their wishes and prayers with it. Later they began to use various scented materials for mummification. This served as a foundation for later development of aromatherapy as a branch of alternative medicine.

Nowadays many doctors are taking a stand for aromatherapy. Some consider it to be a very effective way of treatment, because certain essential oils can have impact on both your physical and psychological condition.

However, there is no definite explanation as to how aromatherapy works. Humans are capable of smelling over ten thousand different scents, and scientists suppose that each of those scents can somehow influence our well-being and mood. Various smells pass through the limbic system, which is responsible for our mood condition and emotions as well as for our memory and learning abilities, causing our brain to respond to those odors.

The chemical components that the essential oils contain (aldehyde, alcohol, cetone, ester) can reduce inflammation, destroy bacteria, heal wounds, treat fungal inflections, bring relaxation, reduce anxiety, treat sleepiness and even help with slow breathing. Aromatherapy treatments are also highly helpful for relieving digestive problems, skin problems, headaches, depression and stress.

Today aromatherapy treatments are practiced in beauty salons, health clubs and sport centers, but you can opt for self treatment. Just make sure you have chosen the right oils and always follow the instructions on the product. There are various ways of using essential oils–they can be used by inhalation, massages, compresses and bathing.

Aromatherapy treatment is not limited by age or sex, but the general health condition and medical history of the patient matter greatly. Aromatherapy is not recommended if you have epilepsy, high blood pressure or are pregnant.

Aromatherapy health is not a myth, but as any treatment it also may have its side effects if not used sensibly. Essential oils can be toxic if their use exceeds the recommended amount. It could lead to sensitivity to sunlight and allergic reactions among other problems. So if you have any doubts about using an essential oil, don’t take the risk. Consult with a specialist before its usage.

Photo © pizzodisevo

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