For centuries Middle Eastern medicine has relied on alternative ways for treating some diseases and discovering new relaxation techniques. As such, acupuncture and aromatherapy were such a huge success that the Western world simply had to implement them in the frantic western way of life.
The main element of the success of these practices is the various types of essential oils used in the process of massage and acupuncture. Why? It seems like essential oils contain fragrances that stimulate some nerves in the nose which results in touching the part of the brain that controls memory and emotion.
Having in mind this astonishing fact, it is no wonder that aromatherapy is so addictive; once you try it, the state of relaxation you experience is just not something you’re willing to let go. But the best part of it all is that aromatherapy doesn’t necessarily have to be a scheduled appointment in a specialized saloon; you can simply get some aromatic candles to create an ambiance, or buy a set of various essential oils for an aromatherapy session at home. So, before you get too excited about this idea, let me introduce you to the mystical world of these gifts from Mother Nature:
Essential oils are liquids which are mainly distilled by steam or water from some plants and their parts such as leaves, stems, flowers, bark or roots. However, these aren’t exactly oils as they do not contain the fatty acids needed for a liquid to be considered an oil.
Types
- Essential oils for the home – you can use them for cleaning, home purification, healthy cooking and for the well-being of your pets;
- Oils for well-being – these are infused into capsules for daily nutrition. These capsules are mainly used for anti-ageing, multivitamin support, energy and stamina, joint mobility, weight management and liquid wellness;
- Oils for beauty – these oils can be found in bottles or can be infused in beauty creams and treatments;
- Essential oils for balance – they are widely popular for their benefits in emotional wellness, stress relief, mental and spiritual health.
Interesting facts
- Essential oils have a really long life-span of up to 10 years. This is due to the fact that they are extremely concentrated, so you need to use only a few drops or so. Only citrus oils do not act as these decade-old oils, because they tend to reduce after a year or two.
- Putting a drop or two of some essential oil underneath your nose before a major test or a meeting can definitely relax your brain. Studies have shown that rosemary and lavender oils work best in relaxing the brain and increasing its performance.
- Fragrances and essential oils are not the same thing, which is a golden rule that you have to keep in mind when choosing essential oils. If the label says fragrance oil, it is not natural but synthetic.
