How does aromatherapy work?

Aromatherapy is 5,000-years-old.  It is the therapeutic use of essential oils that Egyptians invented as a remedy for many ailments and illnesses.  Ever since then, people have claimed that aromatherapy has worked for them even though there is no scientific proof of this. 

It works because the essential oils are concentrated oils that have been extracted from the bark, flower or stem of aromatic plants.  This is done via a steaming process.

Now you may be wondering how does aromatherapy work. 

Basically it works because the fragrances and scents trigger feelings within a person. 

This can be done in the privacy of your own home via candles or incense. 

Therefore, you do not have to be an aromatherapist in order to understand how it works.

The Expense Of Aromatherapy

Going to see an aromatherapist is costly and it is not covered by most health care insurances.  This expense is because of how much essential oil is needed and, of course, you also have to pay for the aromatherapist's time.  However, if you choose to use only a small amount of aromatherapy at home, it really is not all that expensive.

Getting Started

Before you start an aromatherapy program you should talk to your doctor.  If you cannot find an aromatherapist in your area, then you should consult the International Journal of Aromatherapy web site.  This site lists licensed aromatherapists in various areas.

As with anything else, there are some people who should not use aromatherapy.  If you are pregnant the vapors from the essential oils may cause you to vomit or hyperventilate.  If you have a serious heart condition, fever or swollen ankles from a heart or kidney condition you need to avoid essential oils because they can cause heart palpations or increase one's blood pressure.

If you have epilepsy, you cannot use essential peppermint oil because its vapors can trigger seizures.  If one has varicose veins, recent scar tissue, inflamed areas of skin, or skin infections you cannot massage essential oils over these areas because they may become infected.  

For those who can use aromatherapy, you will need to start slowly.  It is helpful to do a patch test on a small area of skin so that you are sure that you are not allergic to the essential oil.