The Theory Behind Aromatherapy

There are a number of theories in place which support the use of aromatherapy in the treatment of a number of things. Most ailments are proven to be the result of the heavy stress loads placed on our system during our everyday lives. Therefore, one theory states that if we can simply achieve a state of relaxed consciousness - this stress should melt itself away, and we will have a calmer outlook on life.

This is certainly an interesting perspective - and not one which is unique to aromatherapy. However, where this technique comes in is at the point of attempting to reach a relaxed state. All too often, people try to do this alone, in a room, with no difference in the environment within which they function 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. By providing aromatherapy, and changing this environment substantially through stimulation of the senses - a reasonable contrast can be reached allowing for better relaxation.

Neuroscience & Brain Development.

In our modern society, we are constantly being exposed to a changing environment. This includes a variety of different smells from a number of sources. If you visit a theme park, the smell of candy floss is most common. At the cinema - that smell is popcorn. At the rubbish dump, the smell is certainly not as appealing. These obvious differences actually affect the brain, and hence lead to the triggering of happy and sad emotions.

On top of this, it is a known fact that we are able to trick the brain. Take optical illusions for example. We know that what is drawn is completely impossible - however when we look at it, our brain has a very difficult time deciphering what is going on - because it literally doesn't make sense. If we can do this trickery via sight, theorists claim that there is no reason we can't do it through smell.

They say that by triggering particular areas of the brain with different fragrances, we can alter the mood in an instant, and hence change the way people are thinking and feeling about particular issues.

Many More Approaches.

The two different theories above state different reasons as to why aromatherapy works - yet they both come to the conclusion that it indeed is a valid treatment option for some condition. Don't forget, however, that there are many more opinions and theories out there.