The Idea Behind Aromatherapy

You may think that it is a fairly new trend, but aromatherapy has actually been around for thousands of years. Aromatherapy involves using oils from aromatic plants for health and beauty purposes. This is an important distinction to make, since synthetic oils will not serve the same function even if they may have a similar chemical composition.

The essential oils used in aromatherapy are extracted from flowers, herbs, and aromatic woods. These are typically extracted through distillation and sometimes with the use of solvents. If the latter process is used however, it is important to make sure that every trace of the solvent is removed prior to bottling.

The most common application of aromatherapy is by way of a massage. This is the most effective way to gain the benefits of the essential oils, and the combination of the therapeutic power of the massage makes it even more effective.

Contrary to what you may think, the essential oils used in aromatherapy aren't actually absorbed through the skin. Most of the oil simply stays on the surface of the skin, so there is very little risk of them being absorbed and making their way through the bloodstream. What a certain amount of the oils may find their way to the bloodstream, the amount is usually insufficient to cause any noticeable effects. What you have to realize is that skin is designed to prevent contaminants from working their way into the system. While there are certain patches that introduce substances into the body by way of the skin, these include synthetic ingredients that allow the compounds to be absorbed. In any case, the few oils that may be able to penetrate the skin are likely to cause irritation or an allergic reaction. The bottom line is that our aromatherapy is generally safe and free from side effects.

Some people will opt to include essential aromatic oils into their bath water and gain the benefits of aromatherapy in that manner. Combining these oils with the water may enhance their effectiveness. Where aromatherapy may be used on young children and even babies in this manner, you have to adjust the amount of oils that you use since children's skin may be more sensitive. Among the other methods by which you could incorporate essential oils into an aromatherapy program this by applying compresses, through inhalation, or by vaporization. Nevertheless, application and the skin remains the most effective way to gain the benefits of aromatherapy.