Benefits Of Aroma Therapy

Aroma therapy is a type of alternative medicine which uses essential oils and other aromatic plant compounds which are aimed at improving someone’s health and mood. Many people would consider Aroma therapy to some people is classed as unscientific and wishful thinking-however scientist evidence has in fact proved that the effectiveness is growing. It is said to make an individual feel good although there is no evidence that it can make someone well. The theory behind aroma therapy is that the inhalation of oils stimulates the part of the brain connected to smell (Olfactory system) a signal is then sent to the limbic system of the brain that controls ones emotions and retrieves learned memories. This causes chemicals to be released which can
The aim is to give the air a specific fragrance or to disinfect it. Direct inhalation is where the person breathes the evaporating oils straight in which is commonly used for respiratory disinfection, decongestion and psychological benefits. Topical applications are applied to the skin through massage, baths and therapeutic skin care. Aromatherapy is commonly used for; Anxiety, stress, insomnia, aches, circulation/digestive problems, depression and menstrual/menopausal problems. A study found that women who suffered with depression had their sense of smell affected. It added that women who received aromatherapy and suffer from depression benefitted from the treatment. Popular aromatherapy products include; Basil used to sharpen the concentration, bergamot said to be useful for urinary tract, black pepper for stimulating circulation, clove oil is a painkiller commonly used for toothache but can be used as a antiemetic, eucalyptus often used for relief of the airways, geranium oil commonly used as a diuretic, jasmine said to have aphrodisiac qualities, lavender as relaxation, lemon oil used to give a person a mood lift and thyme oil to help fatigue and nervousness. As an aroma therapist, you would need good communication skills for working with clients. You would also need the ability to understand the properties of a wide range of essential oils. To practise as an aroma therapist, you will need insurance and membership of a professional body. To join a professional body, you will usually need to complete a course which meets the National Occupational Standards (NOS) for Aromatherapy. The International Federation of Aroma therapists ensure all checks are completed and that an individual has met all requirements before becoming a therapist. An aroma therapist will have a holistic approach-the whole person is treated. However there are risks associated