Aromatherapy

Generally there are two basic mechanisms to explain the reported beneficial effects of aromatherapy. The first is the influence of aroma on the brain, in particular the limbic system through smell. The second is a direct pharmacological impact of essential oil.

While precise knowledge of the synergy between the body and aromatic oils may be claimed by aromatherapists, the efficacy of aromatherapy has yet to be scientifically demonstrated. Some research studies undertaken to date have indicated that it may be effective at treating some complaints and conditions.

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Aromatherapy has been around for thousands of years. The Egyptians, Romans and Greek all reputedly used aromatherapy oils. Hippocrates often bathed in aromatherapy water and received scented massages. However, as defined today, aromatherapy is related to the use of distilled plant volatiles, which was an invention of the last century. A French chemist Gattefosse initially coined the word "aromatherapy", in the 1920's, who extensively researched the healing properties of essential oils after an accident in his perfume laboratory. He accidentally put his arm on fire and thrust it into the nearest cool liquid, which was a vat of lavender oil. Instantly he observed pain relief, and instead of requiring the extended healing process he had experienced during recovery from previous burns, this burn healed quickly, with negligible discomfort and limited scarring.

Aromatherapists use essential oils (always diluted in a carrier oil) to influence the emotions of a person and also to relieve physical ailments. Essential oils are claimed to relieve stress, ease pain, improve sluggish circulation and reduce amongst other claimed benefits. They believe that some essential oils may help relieve bacterial or viral infections, burns, respiratory conditions, depression and many other illnesses. However, it is strongly recommended that you consult your doctor for a diagnosis before using aromatherapy, and also to let your doctor know about any complementary therapies that you may be using.

Storing of oils.
Essential oils are best stored in a cool, dark environments to best ensure that they remain effective and any spoilage is minimised. A dark glass bottle is generally considered to be the best vessel to store as plastic bottles may deteriorate over time. Similarly a glass bottle with a dropper in it can also deteriorate, so it is advised to store the dropper separately. If properly stored, aromatherapists suggest that essential oils may last for up to a year.

Guidelines for use of Aromatherapy Essential Oils
The following are basic guidelines when using essential oils. If in doubt, always contact a trained aromatherapist/health care professional.

• Never take essential internally unless under the guidance of a trained aromatherapist.
• Before using any essential oil, test a small area with diluted oil to see if there is any reaction.
• Do not use undiluted oils on the skin
• Do not use the same oils for constantly without a break as frequent use may lead to irritation.
• Some oils are claimed to trigger menstruation and uterine contractions and should not be used by pregnant women. Any pregnant woman should check with a qualified aromatherapist before considering using essential oils.
• People with high blood pressure, asthma or epilepsy should consult a qualified aromatherapist before use.
• Some oils can affect the effectiveness of certain medications and should not be used if undergoing chemotherapy. Always check with a trained aromatherapist/health care professional.
• Phototoxic reactions may occur with citrus peel oils such as lemon or lime.
• Some oils can be toxic to some domestic animals, with cats being particularly prone.
• Two common oils, lavender and tea tree, have been implicated in causing gynaecomastia, an abnormal breast tissue growth, in prepubescent boys.

Please Note: Inner West Mobile Massage therapists are not trained aromatherapists and does not provide aromatherapy services for the Inner West or Sydney. This article is provided for information purposes only. Sydney aromatherapy practitioners can be found through naturaltherapypages.com.au.

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