Aromatherapy, often known as essential oil therapy, includes a variety of traditional, alternative, and complementary therapies that make use of essential oils and other aromatic chemicals found in plants. Essential oils have been applied for more than 6,000 years to improve the quality of life.

The NAHA describes aromatherapy as “the therapeutic or medicinal use of aromatic substances (essential oils) for complete health.
In 1997, the International Standards Organization (ISO) described an essential oil as the product obtained from vegetable raw material, either by distillation with water or steam, or from the epicarp of citrus fruits by a mechanical process, or through dry distillation.”
A variety of essential oils have been shown to exhibit varying degrees of antibacterial activity, as well as antiviral, nematocidal, antifungal, insecticidal, and antioxidant characteristics. Massage, topical treatments and inhaling are all forms of aroma.

However, people should be mindful that “natural” products are still chemicals and can be dangerous if used incorrectly. When utilizing essential oils, you must follow the advice of a skilled practitioner.

 WHY Aroma Therapy?

Aromatherapy is the practice of employing essential oils for therapeutic purposes. Aromatherapy has been practised for ages. When inhaled, fragrance molecules in essential oils move directly from the olfactory nerves to the brain, focusing on the amygdala, the brain’s emotional center.

Essential oils can be absorbed through the skin. A massage therapist may add a few drops of wintergreen to the mixture to assist relax stiff muscles during a rubdown. A skincare business may combine lavender with bath salts to create a calming soaking.

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Why Aroma oils are necessary?

Aroma oils, also known as essential oils, are thought to be essential for a variety of reasons, including their possible medicinal advantages and flexibility. Many people believe that fragrance oils must be used for several reasons:

Therapeutic qualities: Essential oils have a wide range of therapeutic characteristics, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antifungal, and relaxing effects. These characteristics make them useful in promoting overall wellness.

Stress Relief and Relaxation: Aroma oils are frequently employed in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Inhaling the pleasant scents of essential oils can relax the brain and body, lowering anxiety and stress.

Enhanced Mood and Emotional Well-Being: Aromatherapy is said to have an advantageous effect on emotions and moods. Aroma oils such as citrus fruits are frequently associated with boosting and stimulating benefits, but others, such as ylang-ylang, can generate sensations of happiness and relaxation.

Natural Air Fresheners: Aroma oils are widely utilized as natural alternatives to synthetic air fresheners. They add an appealing smell to rooms without the use of harsh chemicals, promoting a healthier living environment.

Skin Care: Some essential oils provide skin-nourishing impacts and are used in skincare products. Tea tree oil, for example, is well-known for its antibacterial characteristics, making it a popular therapy choice for skin-related conditions.

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Caution when using essential oils

Because essential oils elicit bodily reactions, not all of them are beneficial to everyone. When essential oils are mixed with medications, the chemical components in them can have negative effects. They may impair the effectiveness of conventional medications or worsen the person’s medical issues.

A person with high blood pressure, for instance, should avoid stimulants like rosemary. Some chemicals, such as fennel, aniseed, and sage, function similarly to estrogenic, thus anyone with estrogen-dependent breast or ovarian cancer should avoid using them Concentrated products may be toxic before diluting and should be handled with caution. A maximum concentration of just 5% has been recommended.

Side Effects Due To Overuse Of Essential Oils

Essential oils can induce sensitization of the skin and allergic contact dermatitis when used excessively or undiluted. Dealing with skin sensitivity can be difficult because your skin may continue to react to items containing oil extracts, even when diluted. It might also react with essential oils that contain similar bio compounds.

Apart from allergic reactions, excessive usage of essential oils can cause nausea, sleepiness, eye irritations, seizures, and respiratory issues.

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    Dos and Don’ts Of Essential Oils

     A. Dos

• Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil.
• Always do a patch test before using a new essential oil. Wait 24 to 48 hours to check for any allergic reactions.
• You can also add essential oils to your skincare products such as your moisturizer.
• For sensitive skin, use essential oils that are considered hypoallergenic.
• Do stop using the oil if your skin begins to react to it.

        B. Don’ts

• Never use undiluted essential oils on skin.
• Avoid using on children without prior doctor approval.
• Don’t use it on broken skin or wounds without consulting your doctor.
• Don’t use old or expired essential oils.
• Avoid using on sensitive areas like near the eyes or the genitals.
• Avoid overuse of essential oils

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In conclusion as the entire world adopts more holistic approaches to health, aromatherapy stands out as a versatile and natural way to promote general well-being. Whether you’re looking for stress reduction, improved sleep, or a mood boost, the olfactory journey of essential oils can lead you to a happier, more balanced existence.

By Glana Nikitha Rodrigues