is the study of plant oils
(essential oils) and its therapeutic /clinical
and beauty uses. (Their psychological
activities and broad spectrum medicinal activities)
Aromatherapy
has been used by humans ever since they discovered certain flowers, gums, herbs
and spices
have
pleasing smells.
Historically some early human graves had flower wreaths deposited in the burial
pit. Initially plants may have been used to deter bed bugs, and lice who
were living in bedding. Thru a series of trial and error the discovery of
what worked and what did not was passed down over the generations until the oral
tradition was
removed from certain plants and trees to become known as essential oils. Now when someone died not
only were flowers strewn at the burial but the more wealthy citizens were washed and perfumed with
essential oils to help preserve the body. The gums of some trees specifically myrrh, frankincense and
sandalwood started being used in temples as offerings to the Gods. Spices were found to help preserve
meat so the diner was not infected with parasites. The same is true today, when we eat sushi (raw fish)
a condiment called wasabi is also served. The wasabi is Japanese root similar to horseradish which inhibits microbe
growth. As wonderful as wasabi is - it is not prevent food poisoning. Spices and herbs also make a meal more
appetizing, the smell of good food stimulates digestion and reminds us of our
hunger.
Herbs
have been used medicinally in oils and wine to help cure whatever ails us.
Aromatherapy works in two ways: through olfactory (smell) and skin. The sense of smell is part of the Limbic system, and is a very old and primitive structure. For most animals, it is the primary mode of communication and influences many important functions, including reproduction and taste. This system can distinguish thousands of odors. Tiny molecules of aroma are inhaled by the nose. These aroma molecules are trapped in the nose by hairlike nerve endings that pass the aroma on to receptors that then carry the molecules to the Olfactory Bulb. From the Olfactory Bulb, the aroma molecules are transported to the Limbic system. (olfactory cortex, the amygdala, and the hippocampus).
And
in all actuality, the Olfactory is just as efficient. In 1989, it was discovered
that the Amygdala plays a very important role in storing emotional trauma. AND
that odor triggers a profound effect from the gland. The theory (Dr.
Joseph Ledoux, New York Medical University) being that odor can help release
stored emotional trauma. The Olfactory nerves react as other nerves in the
body do, responding to electrical signals and impulses and dispatching
information to the rest of the
body. This is how and why some oils can produce increased antibody production,
as well as endorphins.
(Sources:
www.infinitevitalheart.com/Olfactory_System.html;
www.sfn.org/
www.thalamus.wustl.edu/course/limbic.html_)
This can help explain why some aromatherapy clients have emotional issues surface that are quite powerful. This is also why when selling your home a real estate agent may suggest baking a loaf of bread or lighting a cinnamon candle, these smells trigger a welcome and comforting - hence feelings of home . (Almost like going to Grandma's house)
As for the skin, it is the largest organ of the body with thousands of nerve endings. Psychologically, we all thrive on being appropriately touched. Science has determined that our senior and infant populations have the highest demand for being touched. Research continues to show the enormous benefits of touch—which range from treating chronic diseases, neurological disorders, and injuries, to alleviating the tensions of modern lifestyles. A loving touch of the hand can stimulate the immune system and let us know that someone cares, we are not alone.
For you the consumer what does all this mean?< What are the benefits?
Therapeutic Aromatherapy uses the antibacterial, antiseptic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of essential oils to bring the body back into harmony with itself.
For instance:
Client #1 indicates that they are going through grief, anxiety and loss of appetite the following oils might be used in a massage.
Rose: helps to relieve stress related conditions, strong influence on mind and emotions.
Patchouli: balancer; may aid in lifting depressive states and anxiety or mild mental stimulant.
Ylang-Ylang: relieve stress induced ailments; hyper-ventilation, depression, anxiety, hyper-activity.
Client #2 indicates PMS issues.
Geranium: helps relieve nervous tension, post natal depression, stress related ailments, regulating female hormonal system.
Jasmin: relaxant, anti-depressant effects, painful, spasmodic menstrual pain, spasmodic cough.
Lavender: alleviating stress-related problems: insomnia, mild headaches, mild depression, anxiety, PMS., post natal depression. Very good for muscular cramps. Can be used on damaged skin.
Client #3 indicates muscle aches/pains.
Juniper berry: ideal for insomnia, anxiety and general stress, but mostly used for muscular aches and pains and non-inflammatory arthritis.
Bay: may help muscular aches and pains, uplifting for nervous conditions, good for hair conditions.
Pine: rheumatism, general aches and pains, fibrositis, poor peripheral circulation.
Clients are asked to arrive early for session as personal history needs to be recorded. Duration of session is 15 minutes for intake and 60 minutes for therapy. Total time: 75 minutes.
Disclaimer:
The remedies and therapies suggested in this website are not intended to replace existing medical treatment, or to provide a diagnosis. Please consult with your Health Care Provider before using any complementary therapy.
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