Aromatherapy Essences
Aromatherapy essences most commonly known as essential oils are obtained from the distillation of plants, flowers and herbs that have different therapeutic effects on the body. They also add a wonderful fragrant either to massage oils or to an oil burner or to a bath. The oils have many different properties ranging from effects on the mood, to physical effects such as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory.
Aromatherapy oils should always be used in a carrier oil (unless being used in a bath). The best carrier oils are Soya, almond or avocado I sometimes use Groundnut oil as well. Always mix a small amount as they can go off. Use one drop in 5mml of carrier oil and massage into your joints or for massage into the stomach area use clockwise circular motions. Put 3 to 4 drops of essential oil into a bath of warm water just lie back and soak. Or burn in an oil burner to fill the room with the wonderful scent.
Always check with a qualified Aromatherapist or your doctor or local pharmacist if you are taking other medication before you use essential oils as part of your massage.
There are many essential oils that can be combined or used singularly. I have listed some of the more common ones and their uses below.
Some Common Oils.
BERGAMOT Antiseptic, anti-depressant uplifting and refreshing.
Helps with depression, bronchitis, sore throat, digestive problems
CAMOMILE Sedative - calming, refreshing and relaxing.
Helps with aching muscles, headaches, menstrual pains, inflammations, stress, digestive problems.
CADAMOM Antiseptic - tonic, refreshing
Helps ease wind and digestive problems, painful joints, nausea headaches, general debility
EUCALYPTUS Antiseptic, head clearing, stimulating
Helps coughs, colds, bronchitis, aching muscles
FENNEL Diuretic, Laxative tonic
Helps ease wind and digestive problems, colic, constipation, bronchitis
LAVENDER Antidepressant, antiseptic, sedative, refreshing and relaxing
Helps depression, insomnia, flatulence, indigestion, asthma, bronchitis, menstrual pains, skin problems
MARJORAM Sedative, antiseptic, warming and strengthening
Helps muscular pains, digestive problems, painful joints, sinus congestion
MELISSA Antidepressant, uplifting and refreshing
Helps with headaches, migraine, menstrual pains, lowers high blood pressure
ROSEMARY Antiseptic, refreshing and stimulating
Helps with headaches, migraine, colds, bronchitis, muscular pains.