Aromatherapy

What is Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is the use of aromatic plant oils, including essential oils for psychological and physical well-being. The different aromas and the chemical constituents of the oils can product different emotional and physiological reactions. Essential oils can be added in products to promote its therapeutic effects. Many research shows that aromatherapy can be an effective alternative treatment for wellness.

How does Aromatherapy work?

Aromatherapy works on our sense of smell and by absorption into the bloodstream. About 15% of the air we inhale goes to the roof of the nose, where olfactory receptors transport odors straight to a part of the brain called the limbic system. This area is connected with instinct, mood and emotion. It is thought that aromatherapy may stimulate the release of chemicals within the brain which in turn play a part in unlocking positive emotions.

Does Aromatherapy really work?

Aromatherapy seems to have the most beneficial effect on minor ailments, digestive problems, PMT, stress-related illness and some skin complaints.  Some essential oils such as tea-tree oil are widely used for their antiseptic properties.  Aromatherapy is extremely unlikely to cure major illness and BUPA does not recommend that it is used on its own in place of conventional medicine.  It can however, be used to help alleviate psychological stress experienced by sufferers of major disease or illness.  More and more trials are being carried out to try and establish the health and healing benefits of aromatherapy.  For example it is used with hypnosis in "post-hypnotic suggestion" where people are taught to associate a particular smell with relaxation.  This method was tested on a small sample of epilepsy sufferers, who, when they felt a seizure coming on, sniffed a particular oil and in many cases prevented the seizure developing. In February 1998, the UK Cancer Research Campaign began a 3-year controlled trial that studied the effectiveness of (complementary medicine) in reducing the anxiety and depression associated with cancer as well as physical symptoms such as pain.  More than 500 patients were randomly assigned aromatherapy, relaxation therapy or no additional treatment. The trials suggest aromatherapy helped patients cope with chronic pain, stress, nausea, and depression.

Are there any possible problems or complications with Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is generally safe.  However, essential oils usually should not be taken internally as many of them can be poisonous.  Some oils can cause an allergic reaction and some may cause irritation if applied undiluted to the skin.  Always perform a small area skin test to see if you would have any skin reaction with our products.

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Sage Nature Bath & Body: Handcrafted Soap

Sage Nature Bath & Body Lotion:  Specialty & Aromatherapy Lotion

Sage Nature Bath & Body Deodorant: All Natural Deodorant


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