Aromatherapy Oil
Aromatherapy is a form of treatment, utilizing the medical effect of essential oils. Essential oils represent aromatic substances that are produced by plants. They are different in chemical compounds compared to other herbs because the unique distillation process used to extract them recovers only the lighter phytomolecules.
They are rich in sesquiterpenes, monoterpenes, esters, non-terpene hydrocarbons, organic sulphides, aldehydes, ketones, phenols, etc. In nature, there are no 2 oils that have the same compound as each essential oil contains some 200 to 800 unique and different components.
The origin of aromatherapy is related to the times of ancient Egypt, Rome, Greece and China. Even primitive men noticed the effect of different scents produced by burning certain plants. Various writings had been discovered, dated back to ancient India, mentioning perfumers or incense sellers.
The term ‘aromatherapy’ was first introduced during the 1920s when a French chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, accidentally set his arm on fire and thrust it into the nearest cold tank, which happened to be filled with lavender oil. He was surprised by the instant pain relief.
The wound healed with minimal discomfort and no scarring. Other scientists continued their work and more therapeutic effects of essential oils were being discovered.
The physiological mechanism of how these odours react on the human organism is a complex one.
Odours could trigger immediate emotional reactions. Aroma influences the brain (limbic system) through the olfactory nerves. The direct pharmacological benefits of essential oils had also been discovered. In France, essential oils had been used due to their antiseptic, antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties.
Aromatherapy can be applied through different modes. It could be directly inhaled, used in respiratory disinfection, expectoration, decongestion and for its psychological effects. Essential oils could also be applied topically (during a massage, compresses, baths, etc.) or by aerial diffusion (for environmental fragrance, etc.).
Some of the famous essential oils and their effect:
- Basil oil – It could be used for sharpening concentration, helping in fighting depression, relieve migraines and headaches. However, basil oil should be avoided during pregnancy.
- Eucalyptus oil – It could be used together with peppermint to relieve airways in cases of flu.
- Yarrow oil – It could be used to reduce joint inflammation and relieve cold.
- Tea tree oil – Used in mouth wash for its topical antibacterial and antiseptics properties.
- Lemon oil – Research shows that it enhances mood and relaxation.
- Rose, Sandalwood oil and Jasmine oil – used in the belief of its ability to increase sexual desire.
Even though there are many claims for the effects of aromatherapy but there is still currently a lack of scientific proof for all of its effects. Doctors and scientists acknowledge that it has limited scientific proof. However, for a modern stressful lifestyle, aromatherapy serves as an easy and inexpensive way of relaxation and mild therapy.
Also See: Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
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