Essential oils are the distilled essences of plants, many of which are used to successfully treat a variety of health ailments. These aromatic essences can do for humans what they do for the plants: they act as antibacterials, antivirals, and anti-fungals, as well as antioxidants. The distillation process, first described in the thirteenth century, involves passing steam though plant material, cooling the steam, and separating the resulting water and oil.
Medicinal use of these aromatherapy oils can be done in a number of ways. Breathing them in goes beyond just noting them with our olfactory sense. When inhaled, small droplets of oil are absorbed through the lungs and into the bloodstream. When topically applied, they easily pass through the skin and are also absorbed into the body. In rare instances, under the care of a professional therapist, individuals may even eat a few drops per day of certain oils, when called for in a carefully controlled protocol.
One chooses the method of application using their condition and the selected oil or oils as a guide. Aromatics used for their calming action are generally dispersed in the air and inhaled. Many aromatic oils have potent antiseptic properties, and can be applied at the site of an injury to prevent infection. Another popular use is for pain and inflammation relief, where blended formulas are massaged into aching muscles and joints.
Carrier oils are seed and nut oils into which the essential oils are diluted. These have a variety of therapeutic properties unto themselves. It is in skin care that proper selection is most crucial. Some carriers have astringent aspects, making them useful in acne care. Some are very hydrating, excellent for dry skin. Others include their own antibacterial actions, and can be included in antiseptic formulas. It's smart when creating your own recipes to investigate the properties of the carrier oils, not just the aromatic "active ingredients".
Essential oil safety guidelines are important to consider. Many aromatics are quite hot, such as cinnamon and oregano. Care must be taken that these are used according to long-standing protocols, so that the skin is not burned. Other oils can be toxic if used in large quantities over long periods of time, and should only be employed as long as necessary to treat the condition being addressed.
In the case that one is unsure about the safety of a particular aromatic, a simple check on the internet can provide you with the information required for its safe use. In general, women who are pregnant, young children, and those with long-standing health issues are most susceptible to the effects of the more hazardous oils.
Through proper selection of oils given one's personal condition, safety and efficacy can be best assured. Aromatherapy offers an incredible range of possibilities for improving one's health, and is really worth looking into. The practice can open up a whole new world of self-treatment, and can help one feel better than they ever thought possible.
The author the owner of Ananda Aromatherapy in Boulder, Colorado, found at www.anandaapothecary.com. Find more resources are available on aromatherapy and essential oils through the website.
