Aromatherapy

 Aromatherapy is a holistic therapy that uses essential oils derived from plants to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being through inhalation or topical application.

Aromatherapy is a form of complementary and alternative medicine. It uses essential oils to manage symptoms or boost well-being. It’s a holistic therapy, meaning it supports the whole self, mind, body, and spirit. Aromatherapy involves inhaling essential oils or applying them (diluted) to your skin.
People around the world have used aromatherapy for centuries. In the U.S., aromatherapy often complements other treatments for people with conditions like anxiety. People also use aromatherapy to maintain wellness and feel better in general.
Healthcare providers who specialise in CAM or integrative medicine provide aromatherapy services in their offices or clinics. You can also use aromatherapy on your own, but it’s important to learn proper techniques for doing so. Talk to a healthcare provider before starting aromatherapy to learn how to do it right and make sure it’s safe for you.
When inhaled, aromatherapy stimulates your nervous system (brain, spinal cord, and nerves). This means aromatherapy starts a chain reaction of signals to your brain and chemical responses throughout your body. This activity begins once you start smelling an essential oil.
Essential oils (like all substances that smell) release tiny molecules into the air. When you inhale an essential oil, those molecules move into your nose. Special cells in your nose called olfactory receptors notice the molecules are there. In response, they send messages to your brain through your olfactory nerve.
These messages stimulate activity in your hypothalamus and your brain’s limbic system. Your limbic system is a group of structures (including the amygdala) that help control your emotions and store your memories. Your brain then releases hormones like
Serotonin.
Endorphins.
Dopamine.
These hormones help regulate many body functions like mood, sleep, and digestion. The release of these hormones can help you in various ways, like lowering anxiety and reducing your perception of pain.
Aromatherapy oils, or essential oils, are highly concentrated plant extracts. They come from various parts of plants, including flowers, stems, and leaves. Manufacturers use different processes to remove these oils, like distillation and cold pressing. Many pounds of plant materials go into one small bottle of essential oil.
Aromatherapy may help you manage stress, anxiety, and other health issues that affect your daily life. Many people choose aromatherapy because it:
Uses natural, plant-based products.
Can be tailored to your preferences (for example, the specific scents you enjoy).
It can be used along with other treatment methods, like psychotherapy.