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The basic principle ofaromatherapy is to ridto give well-being to the person through the sense of smell. Aromatherapy, pertaining to phytotherapy, belongs to the set of alternative medicines. It is part of holistic practices, or methods that deal with the person as a whole.
The term holism, of Greek derivation, in fact means “totality”. From this point of view, holistic practitioners do not consider the treatment of the body or the physical symptom to be primary, but they believe that care should be taken of the individual in every aspect: body, mind, emotions and soul.
This type of treatment exploits the essodorous substances that are extracted from flowers, leaves, medicinal plants and fruits. There is a dual channel: the impact of aroma on the limbic system, and the pharmacological aspect of essential oils.
How aromatherapy works
Aromatherapy manages to involve both the emotional and physical spheres. The aromatic substances, spread into the environment and then inhaled by the person, affect the pituitary; this gland of the endocrine system, controlled by the hypothalamus, regulates the activity of almost all other glands.
The sense of smell therefore it acts directly on the brain. It is the only one of the five senses to be in direct connection with the Libyan cerebral system which regulates the emotional life and emotions, such as anxiety, fear, joy, anger.
This is why perceiving a pleasant scent helps relax and relieve tensions, both in the body and in the mind. But aromatherapy is much more: scents and smells, used wisely, help to deal with seasonal or chronic ailments, giving general relief.
Aromatherapy methodology
The oldest method of diffusing perfumes in the environment is to burn incense. Today there are fragrance sticks, which perfume without producing excessive smoke. There are also mixtures of dried herbs or shrubs, the so-called pout leeks, for drawers or cabinets.
These remedies are create a relaxing environment, but to take full advantage of the principles of aromatherapy, it is the use of essential oils is recommended.
These are oily substances obtained by extraction from plant-type material; the most common are medicinal and aromatic plants. They are very concentrated, and a few drops are enough to enjoy the benefits.
The properties of essential oils
Essential oils have the ability to affect the body, relieving or resolving various kinds of ailments. Not only does each gradation have a different impact on the body, but it also does so according to the amount used. For this it is good know its type, dosage and properties before their use.
These are the main ailments for which aromatherapy can help.
- Headaches, migraines and general nervous disorders: ideal the essential oil of basil
- Cuts and burns: lavender essential oil has antiseptic and antibacterial properties
- Colds and seasonal illnesses: eucalyptus essential oil has extraordinary decongestant properties
- Digestive Difficulty: Helpful the essence of bergamot, which also positively affects the urinary tract
- Stress and mild depression: use is valid lemon essential oil
- Sleep disorders: lavender essential oil it is also advantageous in these cases
- Disorders of the menstrual cycle: the chamomile helps for pains, the calendula if the cycle is not regular, while for a too abundant flow it can help cypress essential oil.
Products that guarantee properties
Essential oils ensure all the benefits offered by the basic plant material only if they are high quality products. Then contact a certified seller, such as Aromatherapy.it. The products of this company are suitable for both professional use and by amateurs of the sector.
These compounds are all certified for Aromatherapy, since the biochemical parameters of each batch are controlled, guaranteeing the highest quality.
How to use essential oils
Oils usually should not be ingested; the main way is to exploit, of course, the scent they give off. Here’s how to use them
Basically, these are small basins, in terracotta or metal, which are filled with water. A few drops of the chosen essential oil are added to the water. The aroma is released when the water is heated.
Most common diffusers work with the heat of the fire: under the bowl, there is an opening to insert a small candle. Other models, on the other hand, are electric: they last longer, but always need a power outlet.
One of the classic grandmother’s remedies is to carry out fumigations. Boil the water and put it in a suitable container, dissolve the drops of suitable essential oil in it, and then inhale the steam. It is possible to put a towel over the head, so that the effect does not dissipate. IS’ a “shock” treatment that has great benefits in the case of respiratory tract congestion.
Essential oils can be also added in candles. It is possible to buy ready-made candles, or add a few drops to a normal candle when it is lit. The same goes for i soaps. You can find some on the market already enriched with essential oils, or create them yourself. Start with soap residues; dissolve them in water, add the essences you want and a vegetable oil. Put them in molds, preferably wooden ones, and wait 6 weeks before use.
