Aromatherapy Basics

Thanks for the awesome information!

Here's an article on Aromatherapy Basics:

The basis of aromatherapy is the use of essential oils, the vital life essence of aromatic plants and flowers in a concentrated form.

 Many plants are needed to produce even an ounce of oil -for example, 6 pounds of lavender flowers are needed to make 1 oz of oil while 300 pounds of rose petals are required for 1 oz of rose oil.

Most essential oils are obtained through steam distillation. This process involves filling large vats with plant material which is then steamed at high pressure. The hot steam causes the essential oils to be released by the plant. The oils do not dissolve in water and will float to the top. They are then skimmed from the top.

They are highly concentrated and have a unique chemical composition consisting of botanical vitamins, hormones and antibiotics.

Some essential oils relax, sedate, balance, rejuvenate, invigorate, and even enhance memory. Other beneficial propertiescan include anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-bacterial and anti-spasmodic.

 
The action of an essential oil on the body is holistic, combining both physical and mental aspects. Essential oils work together with all aspects of the body, strengthening rather than weakening it so that it may aid in the healing and restorative process.

Pure essential oils have a unique place in natural homes and lifestyles, providing natural alternatives to the many synthetic chemical hosehold products.

 Some oils have up to 250 different components making them nearly impossible to duplicate synthetically.

 
The aromatic molecules of essential oils come in contact with the only part of our brain that is exposed outside our body -the olfactory bulb. This olfactory bulb, which is responsible for the sense of smell, is thousands of times more sensitive than any other sense. Scents are tied directly to the neo-cortex which is the part of the brain that processes memory and emotions and where basic drives are stimulated.

It is thought that by inhaling essential oils, we elicit responses which can promote a sense of health and well-being.

It is also believed that molecules of an essential oil also permeate the skin and are carried by the lymphatic and circulatory systems to the inner organs. Whether the oil is absorbed through the skin or inhaled, it may have therapeutic effects on the body and emotions.

 
Aromatherapy Safety

 Ther are roughly 30 or so essential oils that are widley available and considered relatively safe.

Others are skin irritants, or toxic, while still others are abortive, or not to be used during pregnancy or on children.

 
When using aromatherapy for small children, always dilute the normal/adult amount by half (or more.)

 
The following essential oils are contraindicated during pregnancy:

Aniseed, Armois, Cornmint, Fennel, Hyssop,  Cotton, Marjoram, Basil, Birch, Myrrh, Oregano, Pimenta, Racemosa, Plecanthrus, Star Anise, and Tarragon.

Because essential oils are highly concentrated, and some are known skin irritants, the safest way to use them is in diluted form.

 
Some are considered skin “friendly” such as lavender and tea tree oil.

Look Up Specific Essential Oils