What is Aromatherapy?
Essential oils are extracted from flowers, herbs, plants, roots, stems-- leaving the purest form of the botanical it was extracted from. These oils are used in aromatherapy to benefit the human body both physically and mentally. When we think of essential oils most of us think of their soothing fragrance, but don’t know the science behind how it actually affects our brain and our bodies. When you inhale an aromatherapy blend the fragrance travels up through your nasal passages directly into the olfactory bulb of your brain. The olfactory bulb is a part of the limbic system, which helps control emotion, memory, attention, movement and some thought processes.
Aromatherapy: Topical Application vs. Inhalation
The most common method of aromatherapy is the inhalation of essential oils, sending sensory information straight to the brain. You may, however, also receive health benefits by topically applying essential oils onto your skin. When applied topically oils attach to your body’s fat cells carried throughout the body and into the brain.
How does it benefit our health?
Essential oils have been shown to help in treating conditions such as anxiety, depression, migraines, hypertension and even dementia. It is also beneficial to our skin, as it promotes blood flow and reduces inflammation. Aromatherapy benefits our body’s physical and mental health-- each essential oil holds its own healing properties. Essential oils also carry a much higher percentage of antioxidants than superfoods!
Our Favorite Essential Oils & Their Benefits
Grapefruit
Beauty: acne, blemishes, cellulite, dry skin
Health: aches & pains, menstrual cramps, reduces depression symptoms, disinfectant, metabolism
Orange
Beauty: UV damaged skin, cystic acne, dark circles, promotes collagen growth, dandruff, hair growth
Health: antibacterial, stress relief, aphrodisiac, immune system, digestive system, inflammation
Lavender
Beauty: acne, dry skin, complexion, wrinkles, dark circles, hair loss, dandruff, skin psoriasis
Health: stress relief, anxiety relief, sleep, headache, respiratory, bloating, blood circulation
Eucalyptus
Beauty: skin irritation
Health: sinus, respiratory, immune system, stress relief, sleep, inflammation, headaches, allergies, earaches, mental clarity, energy booster, fights infections
Peppermint
Beauty: dry scalp, brightens complexion, acne, toner, hair growth
Health: muscle pain, headaches, digestion, respiratory, energizing, teeth and gums
Lemongrass
Beauty: additive for facial cleanser, dry scalp
Health: sinuses, headaches, muscle relaxer, stomach aches, energizer
To celebrate Aromatherapy month we will be offering aromatherapy complementary to any massage or facial treatment!