Aromatherapy is one of the best ways to reduce your stress. You don’t need to take any medications that may have adverse effect to your overall health or spend more money for a vacation. All you need to do is creating a soothing atmosphere in your home with a few aromatherapy candles, oils or other tools. Let the pleasant smells fill your room, helping you to relax and calm your body and mind.
Aromatherapy is a therapeutic use of essential oils extracted from plants. The highly concentrated oils can be inhaled (directly or indirectly) or applied to the skin through massage, lotions or bath salts. It is believed that the oils can help rejuvenate the skin and improve blood flow. Aromatherapy also comes in other forms like candles or incenses, which will produce pleasant smells when they are burned. Aromatherapy is thought to work by stimulating smell receptors in the nose, which then send messages through the nervous system to the limbic system, the part of the brain that controls emotions. In turn, it will also trigger positive physical response such as relaxing the muscles.
Some studies have confirmed the health benefits of aromatherapy, especially on how it reduces anxiety and depression, and also improves the quality of life. For example, a study of depressed men showed that using citrus essential oils reduced their intake of antidepressants. Other studies found that marjoram essential oil increases production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood. A research also showed that ylang-ylang essential oil boosts the body’s production of endorphins (hormones that produce feelings of well-being and pain reduction).
Many essential oils are safe when used as directed. However, some people may experience side effects when the oils are applied to the skin, such as allergic reactions, skin irritation and sun sensitivity. Further research is needed to see how essential oils might affect children and pregnant women, as well as how the oils might interact with medications and other treatments. That’s why you may need to consult your doctor and a trained aromatherapist about the possible risks and benefits of aromatherapy.
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