Aromatherapy is a treatment modality that uses essential oils extracted from plants to promote relaxation, improve mood and mental clarity, treat chronic pain and inflammation, and aid in the treatment of other health conditions. Aromatherapy benefits can be observed in as little as 15 minutes, although the effects may last for up to 24 hours after use. The exact mechanisms of action are not fully understood, but there are many proposed explanations. The most commonly cited explanation is that essential oils contain bioactive compounds that can be absorbed into the skin when they are applied topically. These compounds travel to the olfactory cortex of the brain where they activate the areas responsible for mood, stress management, and relaxation. This process then triggers a cascade of biological reactions that lead to a relaxed state and improved mood.In addition to direct effects on the brain and body, the use of essential oils has been shown to positively impact many other areas of health. These include: - Sleep - Anxiety - Depression - Stress management - Mood - Chronic pain - Menopause - Pregnancy - Infant development - Hair and skin care

What are essential oils?

Essential oils are volatile liquids found in plants that can be extracted via a variety of methods. Although the composition of essential oils varies widely depending on the type of plant and method of extraction, they are typically made up of about 80 percent volatile compounds and 20 percent non-volatile compounds. When exposed to air and heat, these compounds evaporate, leaving behind the essential oil.There are thousands of essential oils, each with unique properties that can be used for a variety of purposes. The majority of essential oils can be used for both aromatherapy and culinary purposes. However, not all essential oils are suitable for both uses.To ensure the quality and purity of an essential oil, it should be tested to ensure that it meets the standards outlined by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). This ensures that the oil is free of contaminants and meets the quality standards outlined by the governing body.

How are essential oils produced?

The process of extracting essential oils from plants is known as hydro-distillation. This method uses water, pressure, and heat to extract the oil. Depending on the type of plant and the desired end product, there are a number of different methods used to extract the essential oils.When extracting essential oils from plants, two types of alcohol are used. These are either ethyl alcohol or propylene glycol. The former is used to extract oils from flowers and leaves, while the latter is used to extract oils from roots and bark. Alcohol serves both as a solvent and preservative, so essential oils are usually diluted with alcohol before being added to other products such as skin care or massage oils.

Benefits of essential oils

There are many benefits associated with the use of essential oils. The following are just a few examples: - Stress relief - Increased mood and energy - Improved sleep - Improved digestion - Improved mental clarity - Improved immunity - Improved circulationThese benefits are related to the way in which essential oils act in the body. They are bioactive compounds that can be absorbed into the skin when they are applied topically. These compounds travel to the olfactory cortex of the brain where they activate the areas responsible for mood, stress management, and relaxation.

Bottom line

Aromatherapy has been used for thousands of years to promote relaxation, improve mood, and treat a variety of health conditions. When applied topically, essential oils are absorbed into the skin where they can directly affect the body and brain. These compounds travel to the olfactory cortex of the brain where they activate the areas responsible for mood, stress management, and relaxation. Aromatherapy can be used as a standalone modality or as part of a multi-pronged treatment plan to promote health and wellness.