What is Aromatherapy?

This word “Aromatherapy” comes from the fusion of two words- Aroma which means smell and therapy which means to cure. Basically aromatherapy uses the plants and their parts for curing and healing purpose. This is a holistic treatment which means that the treatment has a profound impact on the body, mind and spirit.

Aromatherapy Massage

Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of essential oils. An essential oil is an aromatic essence, distilled from a single botanical source. True essential oils have nothing added to them, and nothing taken away. Essential oils can have many different effects on the body, mind and spirit. They can be sedative or stimulating; some have an analgesic and antispasmodic effect, and most are antibacterial. Essential oils can aid in skin care and wound healing.

There are many different ways of using essential oils therapeutically - in baths, inhalations, compresses, creams or lotions, but perhaps one of the most pleasant, relaxing and therapeutic ways is through aromatherapy massage.

Effects of Aromatherapy Massage Therapy

Massage therapy has been shown to be highly beneficial. It can affect the autonomic nervous system, and calm the "fight or flight" response, reducing the level of harmful stress hormones in the body. Massage stimulates the blood circulation, increasing the supply of nutrients and oxygen to cells. Massage stimulates lymphatic flow, improving tissue drainage and improving the immune system. Long, flowing connective strokes, called effleurage, generally have these effects.

How does it Work?

Many aromatherapists and aromatherapy practitioners believe that essential oils are absorbed by the skin. There are however differing opinions as to how much of the components of essential oils can penetrate the skin, and indeed what their effect on the body might be, if they do penetrate.

Nevertheless, many beneficial effects can take place at the level of the skin. Many skin conditions can be improved by the anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties of the essential oils.