The art of healing our bodies via scent. Aromatherapy uses the burning or steaming of essential oils and herbs to create fragrances that medicinally improve the health of the body, mind, and spirit. A holistic style of treatment, aromatherapy is a practice that is known to help lift your mood (including depression) and relieve stress amongst many other remarkable health benefits. Here are some healing fragrances that can relieve a few of those troublesome issues in Aromatherapy: 5 Scents that Help Combat Everyday Ailments!
1. Lavender for Sleep
Picture a golden field with rolling purple hills. The image is one that is relaxing, therapeutic and perfectly portrays the role of this essential oil. In the past, lavender oil has been used as an antiseptic and when diffused into your room is said to relax the mind, relieve headaches and aid in a gentle sleep.
2. Frankincense for Anxiety
Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh. We have all heard the biblical story and if we go back, frankincense was actually used as an incense many moons ago. With an intense woody aroma, frankincense can boost the oxygen supply to your brain and stimulate the limbic system, helping to balance your emotions which can aid with anxiety.
3. Sage for Focus
Native Americans burned sage for centuries as part of a cleansing ritual to promote healing and wisdom. It has been used since the time of the ancient Egyptians and Romans to treat digestive issues, memory problems, and sore throats. Sage is still burnt today to release the earthy aroma that can aid with memory whilst calming the mind and aiding focus.
4. Vetiver Oil for Stress
A few small studies have proven vetiver oil to alleviate emotional stress, anxiety, depression, and panic attacks, the effects of which are more recently being looked into as a medicine to help aid those with ADHD. Popular in India and Sri Lanka, vetiver or khus oil is commonly referred to as the “oil of tranquillity”. It has a sharp yet smoky scent that imitates the aroma of men’s cologne.
5. Ylang Ylang for Romance
This bristling, bright yellow, star-shaped flower is well known in tropical climates. With a smell that is popular in luxury perfume, ylang ylang imitates the sweet smells of jasmine, banana and neroli. The heavy fragrance this plant emits is known to enhance libido, acting as a natural aphrodisiac for anyone that is looking to boost the mood at home.
