Why aromatherapy works

Edzard Ernst, former chair of complementary medicine at the University of Exeter in the U. Ernst has published two review studies— one in and another in —that closely examine the health effects of aromatherapy. Other complementary medicine experts voice similar misgivings. Recent research efforts have found that lavender oil improves pain tolerance and ginger oil lowers levels of nausea following surgery. Another study found that lotion containing lemon balm eased agitation among severe dementia sufferers.

But even the authors of these pro-aromatherapy studies say the benefits they uncovered could be attributable to a lot of different factors. Or incorporate them into liquid soap, toothpaste, or mouthwash. You can also diffuse or spritz the oils throughout a room or pour them into a bath. You can find an aromatherapist by using an online directory.

Or ask at a spa or yoga studio. Together, you can come up with an individual treatment plan to meet your goals and manage your symptoms. You may have a few sessions with your aromatherapist, or you could decide to have ongoing sessions for a longer period of time.

Since aromatherapy is a complementary therapy, you should talk to your doctor before starting your sessions.

There are also courses you can take to learn more about aromatherapy. Consultations with an aromatherapist will vary depending on several factors, including where you live.

Most essential oils are safe to use. But there are some precautions you should take when using them, as well as side effects you should be aware of, especially if you take any prescription medications. Always use a carrier oil to dilute the oils. Remember to do a skin patch test before using essential oils. Children and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should use essential oils with caution and under the supervision of a doctor.

You should avoid some oils and never swallow essential oils. As you explore the uses of essential oils, pay attention to how the different oils and methods of use affect you. Always talk to your doctor before starting any aromatherapy treatment. Remember that aromatherapy is meant to be a complementary therapy. If your asthma treatment regimen is no longer working, you may consider using an alternative. As the molecules reach the brain, they affect limbic system, which is linked to the emotions, the heart rate, blood pressure , breathing, memory, stress , and hormone balance.

In this way, essential oils can have a subtle, yet holistic effect on the body. Topical applications : massage oils, and bath and skin care products are absorbed through the skin. Massaging the area where the oil is to be applied can boost circulation and increase absorption. Some argue that areas that are richer in sweat glands and hair follicles, such as the head or the palms of the hand, may absorb the oils more effectively. Essential oils are never applied directly to the skin.

They must always be diluted with a carrier oil. Usually, a few drops of essential oil to an ounce of carrier oil is the concentration. Most common carrier oils are sweet almond oil or olive oil. If there is no allergic response within 24 to 48 hours , it should be safe to use.

Some people report developing allergies to essential oils after using them many times before. If a new allergic response appears, the individual should stop using it immediately and avoid its smell. To achieve a 0. For a 5 percent dilution, add 30 drops to one ounce of carrier.

A maximum concentration of 5 percent is generally considered safe for adults. Ingesting, or swallowing, essential oils is not recommended. Taken by mouth, the oils can damage the liver or kidneys. They can also lead to interactions with other drugs, and they can undergo unexpected changes while in the gut. Aromatherapy is a complementary therapy. It does not provide a cure for diseases, rashes or illnesses, but it can support conventional treatment of various conditions.

Some types of psoriasis may find relief with aromatherapy, but a healthcare professional should advise about use and application. Tooth ache and mouth sores can be relieved by clove oil, but this, too, should only be applied topically and not swallowed.

Supporters claim that these and a wide range of other complaints respond well to aromatherapy, but not all of the uses are supported by scientific evidence. One exception is the estrogen-like effects noted for lavender and tea tree oils which have been linked to breast enlargement in pre-pubescent boys when applied over long periods of time.

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