The Power of Aromatherapy
I have been using Aromatherapy for the past few years and I feel it is a valuable art and science to add to your bag of resiliency tools. It is a fun and creative way of improving your health and well being on all levels-Body-Mind-Spirit. Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of essential oils (EOs). EOs are distilled and expressed from the flowers, leaves, roots, and twigs of a plant. Distillation is the most common method of extracting essential oils, and is a long process whereby the final product is the pure essence of the plant. This pure essence is 100 times stronger than the plant from which it originated. The genus and species of a plant is an important consideration because of each plant’s unique chemical composition; the unique qualities of each plant dictate its therapeutic effects. Aromatherapy dates back to ancient times when EOs was used by the Egyptians, Romans, and throughout India. Renee Maurice Gottefosse, a chemist in 20th century France, is noted as being the Father of Aromatherapy. When applied to the skin, an EO is absorbed into the dermis and then directly into the blood system. When inhaled, the aromatic molecules are absorbed via the nose into the olfactory part of the brain and into the limbic system where memory, emotions and stress response are located. This explains why a memory can be triggered by a smell, and an emotional connection tied to that memory. Uses OF Essential Oils The following are some of the uses for Essential Oils:
Reduce stress/anxiety
Promotes sleep
Reduce depression
Increases circulation of the skin
Healing for burns and skin irritation
Alleviates sore throats
Reduce pain
Decrease scarring of skin
Improves environmental ambiance
Treatment of sinus and congestion symptoms
Cleans and deodorizes environment
Insect repellent
In my next newsletter I will discuss some common applications and ways to use Aromatherapy. Please contact me for any information or resources. Feel free to pass this newsletter on to any friends, colleagues or family members that may benefit from this information: Contact information: Fran@franmedinacoaching.com In Love and Aromatic delights, Fran
