PRINCIPLES OF AROMATHERAPY

Yoga & Cure

Principles of Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy revolves around the effective use of essential oil. In fact, the therapy depends on the synergistic effect of the different ingredients which are present in the essential oil blend. If one of the ingredients in an essential oil has a side effect, the presence of another usually negates it. The end result is the creation of an end product which has minimal side effect and maximum therapeutic value.

Principle of action

Aromatherapy basically works on the principle of enjoying a fragrance. In fact, the therapy will be ineffective if the fragrance is not liked by a person. So, the feel good factor is important here along with the therapeutic purpose. Thus, apart from the therapeutic effect on the body, the oils can improve the psychological and spiritual aspect of a person’s life as well. This is why it is considered as a holistic form of treatment.

Method of use

There are different ways through which the therapy is infused in the body. In many cases the oils are massaged in. In such cases, the person receiving it not only gets the benefits of the essential oils, but of the massage as well. In fact, researches have found out that touch can be a very important factor to calm down the nerve and soothe the muscles. However, in this process, 31% of the essential oil is blended with the base oil.

Another way of application is bathing. It relaxes the person and at the same time, helps the skin to absorb the essential oil better. Normally, the blended oils are added immediately after the bath is run. This is because the heat increases the evaporation. Except for few oils like German chamomile and lavender, other oils are blended with base oil before application.

Burners and vaporizers can be another means of using the therapy. In fact, apart from fumigation, the method can be used to create a beautiful ambience and deodorize the surroundings. Nevertheless, inhaling the vapor has therapeutic benefits. For that, one has to pour a little bit of water on the top of the burner and then add 7-10 drops of essential oil.

Again, steam inhalation can be a very effective means to heal colds, coughs, sore throats as well as for cleansing the skin. In this process 3 to 4 drops of EOs are added in very hot water and the vapor is inhaled. Spitz bath can also be an effective method to treat haemorrhoids and other diseases. Hot or cold compression can be very effective as well. For that a towel should be squeezed out of the water containing the essential oil and placed immediately on the affected area.