8 Scientifically Proven Health Benefits of Aromatherapy

Holistic healing has many types but the one thing in common in all of those types is the healing of mind, body, and spirit to promote the overall well-being of a person. Aromatherapy is one type of holistic healing that uses plant extracts to heal a person’s health – mental and physical.

But do you know what is aromatherapy, exactly?

What is Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is also known as essential oil therapy as it uses aromatic essential oils to medically improve a person’s overall mental, physical, and holistic health. Aromatherapy has been used to treat various ailments for decades. Ancient India, China, and Egypt have always had a healthy source of balms and oils. These natural products have been used for medicinal and psychological purposes.

“Aromatherapy” was first recognized by a French physician and perfumer René-Maurice Gattefossé in 1937. His book Gattefosse’s Aromatherapy discusses the uses of essential oils in the treatment of medical illnesses.

How Does Aromatherapy work?

Aromatherapy works by using the sense of smell and skin absorption using:

• Diffusers
• Inhalers
• Body oils or lotion
• Steamers
• Compresses
• Face Masks

These days, essential oils are available everywhere – in the market or online. Each essential oil has its own properties and benefits in the healing process.

Scientific Benefits Of Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy benefits are many. Some of the healing benefits of aromatherapy include:

1. Stress Relief

There is no going around stress. All of us are stressed in one way or another. Among the many stress management techniques, aromatherapy is one of them. It is scientifically proven that aromatherapy can help reduce blood pressure, lowers heart rate, and induce calm.

Lemongrass, lavender, jasmine, chamomile, and geranium can help in stress reduction.

2. Reduces Anxiety

Anxiety disorders are one of the most common disorders people struggle with, globally. Many people don’t believe in taking prescribed medications as some meds can have side effects. Aromatherapy is a natural solution that can help people reduce the symptoms of anxiety and calm down.

Essential oils such as lavender, chamomile, and rose can help reduce anxiety and its after-effects.

3. Increases Energy

Feeling fatigued and lethargic? Don’t fret! Aromatherapy can help. Natural energy booster, aromatherapy can have energizing effects on our minds and body. Specifically, lemon and peppermint essential oils help increase performance and mobility.

4. Improves Focus

Aromatherapy essential oils can also help improve cognitive functions, focus, and concentration. Essential oils have anti-oxidants that can help with cognitive impairments. It is also said that aromatherapy can help people with Alzheimer’s and Dementia, however, there is much research needed in that regard.

Essential oils such as rosemary and sage can do wonders for your focus and memory.

5. Reduces Physical Aches

Aromatherapy combined with massage can help soothe physical aches and pains. It can specifically help reduce gynecological pain, post-surgery pain, and pain after childbirth. Essential oils such as eucalyptus, ginger, chamomile, and turmeric can help.

6. Better Sleep

Essential oils are natural sedatives when it comes to sleep problems. One of the most popular essential oils when it comes to sleep is lavender. In a research study, it was found that people who used lavender essential oil slept better than those who didn’t.

Other essential oils such as chamomile, ylang-ylang can also help improve sleep.

7. Improves Digestion

Have a stomach ache? Essential oils can help! These oils help stimulate the digestive enzymes which can help with breaking down the nutrients. Aromatherapy essential oils can also help reduce abdominal pain, provide relief from cramps during PMS, and also relieve gas.

Essential oils such as ginger and peppermint can help in this regard.

8. Boosts Immunity

Because of many modern medicines, people have developed a resistance to antibiotics. And many people prefer holistic treatment for their problems than seek modern medicine. Essential oils have anti-inflammatory properties that can help fight infections and better immunity.

Essential oils such as ginger, frankincense, oregano, and eucalyptus can be beneficial for boosting immunity.

Aromatherapy Can Help Treat

There are some conditions that aromatherapy can help treat such as:

• Insomnia
• Fatigue
• Depression
• Inflammation
• Menstrual conditions
• Arthritis
• Menopause

The most popular essential oils used by therapists and people all over the world are:

• Clary sage oil
• Cypress oil
• Eucalyptus oil
• Ginger oil
• Lavender oil
• Lemon and lemongrass oil
• Mandarin oil
• Peppermint oil
• Chamomile oil
• Rosemary oil
• Tea tree oil
• Ylang Ylang oil

These oils can be used in numerous ways such as in lotions, shampoo, soap, moisturizer, diffusers, etc.

While most essential oils are safe to use, they might be harmful if you have any skin allergies. There are some side affects you need to keep in mind before using essential oils:

• Rashes
• Breathing problems
• Headaches
• Allergic reactions
• Irritation on skin
• Nausea

Tip: If you have conditions such as hay allergies, asthma, high blood pressure, eczema, or psoriasis, consult with a doctor first before using these oils.

Final Words

Aromatherapy is a type of herbal medicine and can be used to treat mental and physical ailments. Essential oil therapy can be effective in treating infections, sleep disorders, and provide muscle and joint relaxation. Essential oils can also help in improving mood, anxiety, stress, and depression.

Connect Now with Betterhelp

Disclaimer: As BetterHelp Affiliate, We may receive compensation from BetterHelp or other sources if you purchase products or services through the links provided on this page.

However small benefits, aromatherapy is effective. Explore the different oils and their effect on your overall health. Aromatherapy shouldn’t be used as a replacement for your ongoing treatment if any. It is used to assist you with your treatment, that’s all.

Always consult your doctor before going for aromatherapy.

Nature has been providing treatment for many ailments and illnesses for thousands of years. All we need to do is to keep looking for the best one for us.

Stay happy, stay healthy!

You May Like These Also:

A Guide to Medicinal Plants And Their Benefits

How To Make Time For Self-Care? 7 Tips When Running Low On Time

Surprising benefits of Epsom Salt on Your Physical and Mental Health| Try it NOW