Aromatherapy oils

Rose, Ylang-ylang, Cinnamon, Lemon rose, Juniper and Ginger, what do they have in common besides being a plant? They all secrete essential oils used in aromatherapy – an alternative healing practice. Basil, Mint, Chives, Oregano, Sage, Marjoram and Tarragon are also used for their therapeutic effect. Aromatherapy has its roots from the idea that scent has the power to heal, since the sense of smell is the most lasting of our senses.

From Bronchitis to Headaches or relieving dry skin to just soothing tired muscles, aromatherapy can treat and prevent these ailments like magic. These aromatic oils are also said to help during pregnancy and childbirth. A research has found out that lemon aroma kills cancer cells while healthy cell are unharmed.

Steam distillation is the most widely used method in oil extraction. However, other techniques can also be used in extracting essential oils from fruits, flowers, leaves, barks and resins from trees. One method is Expression where the peelings of citrus fruits are pressed to collect the oils. Another one is Maceration where the fragrant plant is mixed with a base oil like sweet almond, peanut or jojoba, and is put under the sun or over fire.

Another is Solvent extraction where alcohol is used to extract the oils, here, vodka works well. Another is Enfleurage where flower petals are repeatedly pressed in lard that is spread in a flat glass until the lard captures the oil from the flower petals. The newest method in oil extraction is the use of carbon dioxide but this method is still under testing and development.

The essential oils can be used in a bath or massage, or can be mixed with the air through the use of oil burners or through incense. Many scents are now widely available from citrus scents to flowers and mints. Choose one that you feel suits you at the moment. Aromatherapy promises psychological and physical well-being, balance between body and spirit as it fosters relaxation and clarity of mind. It has an aphrodisiac effect as well and it does enhance the mood.

The pleasures of being among flowers or herbs are replicated through aromatherapy. Whether the claims for health benefits are true or not, the fact remains that aromatherapy does indeed bring peace and relaxation. And who knows, that whiff in the air might just cure you.