Aromatherapy is an alternative medicine method in which essential oils extracted from the flowers, leaves and roots of plants are used to reduce stress and provide mental comfort. Lavender oil, tea tree oil, peppermint oil and lemon oil are some of the most preferred oils for such a therapy.

This alternative medicine method is known to have a history of at least 6000 years according to historical findings and today it is still used to reduce stress, relax, increase mental clarity and help treat some health problems. Many people who have tried it report a reduction in anxiety levels or improved sleep quality. However, it is important to note that aromatherapy is not an approved medical treatment in the strict sense of the word, may cause side effects for some people, and it is best to consult a specialist before treatment.

 

How does aromatherapy affect the body?

When theessential oils are inhaled, the nervous system (brain, spinal cord and nerves) is stimulated. This means that aromatherapy initiates a chain reaction of signals to the brain and chemical reactions in the body. This happens when you start to smell an essential oil.

Essential oils created from plant extracts are released into the air in small molecules. When these molecules are inhaled, odor receptors in the nose recognize the molecules. The odor sends messages to the brain via nerves. The messages stimulate the limbic system of the brain located in the hypothalamus. The limbic system is responsible for controlling emotions and memories. With this activation, the brain releases the hormones serotonin, endorphins and dopamine, which give happiness.

Thus, the oils applied with aromatherapy, together with the movement of hormones, regulate the mood and digestive system. This helps to reduce anxiety and relieve pain.

What is aromatherapy good for?
Aromatherapy is claimed to be good for stress, sleep disorders, menstrual cramps, mood and physical health of the person. Although not conclusively proven, aromatherapy can help alleviate symptoms of dementia, which affects behavior and thinking. It is effective in managing anxiety as it can affect emotions by activating hormones.
People with the following problems may want to try aromatherapy treatments:

• Anxiety
• Brain fog
• Depression
• Nausea
• Insomnia
• ADHD
• Lack of appetite
• Dry mouth
• Anxiety

How is Aromatherapy Applied?

The application method differs according to the area where aromatherapy is desired to benefit. Among the most common areas of use, it is known to be through massage or inhalation. After the selection of essential oil for the need, the application areas of aromatherapy are listed as follows:

– Massage: After opening the essential oils with carrier oil, this mixture can be applied by massaging the skin. Massage both relaxes the body and helps to reduce tension in the body.

– Steam bath: Steam bath is one of the methods of applying aromatherapy. After adding a few drops of essential oil to a container of hot water, the head is covered with a towel and the steam is inhaled. This method can be particularly effective against respiratory problems.

– Use of an aromatic diffuser: An aromatherapy diffuser can be used to distribute essential oils throughout the room. The right amount of oil is added to the diffuser and the device is turned on. This is used to change the room air and improve the environment.

– Shower steamer: After filling the bathtub with warm water, add a few drops of one of the essential oils into the water. After standing in the water for 10-15 minutes, the body is allowed to relax and the muscles are allowed to relax.