Mind Body Soul Spirit

You've seen the little bottles lined up on Chemists’ shop counters, and may have noticed them standing demurely on supermarket shelves. They're added to our shampoos, hand creams, washing detergents and more. Essential Oils (Aromatherapy oils) are very present in our daily lives even though they often go unnoticed, but what exactly is Aromatherapy and what does it have to offer?

Aromatherapy is a complementary therapy using essential oils derived from plants and herbs. The Essential Oils are extracted from the petals, roots, rind, seed, stalk, sap, nuts, bark or the leaves of plants. They were discovered by the Egyptians thousands of years ago and, despite the fact that there is limited scientific evidence to support Aromatherapy’s therapeutic benefits, it is believed to help with many psychological and physiological conditions if applied correctly.

Essentially it is the Aroma of these oils that bring about natural healing. When we breathe in a scent, the part of our brain that rules smell is stimulated and subsequently sends a message to the part that governs emotions, which is why we very often link a smell to a memory. Aromatherapy uses this very basic principle in its therapy bringing about harmony to mind, body and soul.

Here are a few of the conditions Aromatherapy is helpful with:

Anxiety – Sandalwood Oil

Insomnia – Lavender Oil

Muscle Pains – Lavender, Thyme, Clary Sage Oils

Headaches – Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Lemongrass Oils
 
Nausea – Ginger, Lemon, Peppermint Oils

Digestive Problems – Peppermint Oil

Menopausal Symptoms – Chamomile, Rose Oils

If you chose to visit an Aromatherapist you can expect to gain a deeper insight into this complementary practice. Your consultant will ask details about your health and lifestyle and follow this with a massage. An Aromatherapist will treat you holistically (as a whole) using essential oils diluted in carrier oils to meet your specific needs.

If you use Essential Oils in your home be sure to get advice from a Professional Aromatherapist. You can buy books and DVDs for further study. Follow guidelines carefully. Store in original air-tight, dark bottles and out of the reach of children.

Aromatherapy is a complementary therapy and should not be used in place of medical treatment.

Aromatherapy Course (online or postal)