Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils from plants to enhance health and appearance. The term was coined by its originator, the French chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse.

Aromatherapy is used for a wide variety of problems, ranging from anxiety and insomnia to acne, cellulite, and aging skin.

Each essential oil has its own characteristic aroma and profile of therapeutic properties. Some oils are soothing and relaxing, others are stimulating and invigorating. Certain fragrances have an effect on a user's mental state: jasmine and neroli may lift depression, marjoram soothes anxiety, and peppermint can enhance mental concentration. But an even greater number of essential oils are physically therapeutic and possess antibacterial, antiseptic, or anti-inflammatory properties. These can be highly effective in relieving the symptoms of such common infections as colds and influenza.

There are several ways to use essential oils to reap the full benefits of aromatherapy. Choose those oils with the properties that are most suited to the effect desired, and use them either singly or in combinations of no more than two or three at a time.

On the skin essential oils are highly concentrated: always mix an essential oil with a carrier oil before applying it to the skin. Add one to three drops of essential oil to a teaspoonful of vegetable oil such as almond, soybean, grape seed, avocado, or wheat germ oil. Store larger quantities of unused oil in a bottle made of tinted glass and keep in a cool place. Apply the mixture directly onto the skin, rubbling it in gently.

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