The sun is about to set, and you have just gotten home after a long day at work. As you open the door and enter your home you smell the faint scent of lemons greeting you. As you approach your bedroom notice a bouquet of roses and stop to take in the sweet smell. You hop in the shower to unwind from the day and inhale the invigorating scent of peppermint that has enveloped you. You dry off and snuggle into your favorite pajamas freshly washed and dried and take in the clean scent of lavender….
Relax….Close your eyes and just imagine. Take your time…I'll wait.
Felt great didn't it? Did you know that scents have a very influential effect on our minds and bodies? It's a very subtle effect but still strong. (Don't just take my word for it. Feel free to revisit the scenario and see for yourself.)
The benefits of aromatherapy are outstanding! The use of scents has been used historical since the middle ages for their healing and therapeutic properties. The healing properties range from cognitive benefits (stress, anxiety, mental fatigue, depression, memory) and physical benefits (stomach discomfort/digestion issues, allergies, congestion, natural energizer, sleep regulation, strengthening immune system, encouraging healing, pain relief, PMS, and migraine relief).
Currently, 'aromatic medicine' (aromatherapy) is actively practiced across the globe in countries such as India France, England, and the United States. In aromatherapy, essential oils are absorbed into the bloodstream when inhaled aromatically. The blood vessels in the lungs then absorb the oils and circulate them throughout the body.
You can experience the benefits of essential oils at home yourself as well. Using a diffuser is quick and easy and can be purchased almost anywhere!
Each essential oil contains its own unique benefits, here are just a few to help you get started:
Bergamot-stress reducer, treats depression and anxiety, stimulates the liver and digestive system, natural energizer
Cedarwood- alleviates respiratory and skin issues, calming agent
Chamomile- antidepressant, mood elevator, calming agent
Eucalyptus- treats respiratory issues (bronchitis, sinusitis, allergies), fights migraines, fever reducer, decongestant, natural deodorizer
Frankincense- effective in supporting the brain to diminish fear and anxiety
Ginger- effective in improving digestion issues
Grapefruit- effective in boosting metabolism
Jasmine- treats respiratory issues, reduces tension and stress, increases libido, eases depression
Lavender- antidepressant, lifts mood, diminishes fear and anxiety, encourages relaxation, natural deodorizer
Lemon- stress reliever, aids in digestion and circulation issues, soothes nausea and vomiting, natural immunity booster, fever reducer, alleviates headaches, mood enhancer (also a terrific addition to homemade cleaning products)
Marjoram- alleviates anxiety and stress, antidepressant, treats respiratory and circulatory issues, natural energizer
Patchouli- relieves anxiety, curbs appetite, antidepressant, relieves stomach issues (bloating), natural energizer
Peppermint- supports digestion, improves focus, natural energizer, fever reducer, combats headache and muscle pain, elevates mood, decongestant, soothes nausea and vomiting
Rose- antidepressant, decongestant, aids in respiratory issues like asthma, relieves anxiety, aids in digestion, diminishes fear and anxiety
Rosemary- enhances brain performance (memory, focus, concentration), fights headaches and migraines, supports digestion
Sandalwood- helps the mucous membranes of the urinary tract and chest, relieves tension, increases libido, relieves tension, natural energizer
Tea tree oil- abundant healing properties, natural immune booster, treats respiratory issues, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, natural deodorizer
Ylang-ylang- fights headaches, reduces high blood pressure, soothe nausea and vomiting, alleviates intestinal issues