Benefits of Aromatherapy Massage

Aromatherapy has been used for several thousand years for spiritual, mental and physical health. In this, essential oils are extracted from leaves, flowers, roots and bark, and mixed with oil or lotion before massaging it into the skin. Aromatherapy is also administered by using the essential oils in candles, incenses, and bath salts.

History of aromatherapy: The ancient Egyptians were known to extract essential oils by soaking plants and then filtering the oil through a linen bag. However, the term ‘aromatherapy’ was coined in the 1920s by a French chemist, who used essential oils to treat the wounds of soldiers during the World War I. He continued experimenting with the oils and found out that essential oils of plants are stimulating, antiseptic and calming.

How does Aromatherapy Work: It is believed that essential oils activate the nerve cells in the nose, which further send certain impulses to the limbic system of the brain. It can relieve stress, calm the mind, and stimulate the immune system. An aromatherapy practitioner can prescribe the right combination of oils depending upon the health problem that you are suffering from. Tiny amounts of oil are mixed with massage oil and rubbed into the skin.

Types of Aromatherapy: Aromatherapy can be enjoyed in three main ways.

• Massage: This popular method can be experienced by getting essential oils mixed in massage lotions applied directly to the skin through a massage. The application of oil on the skin improves the functioning of the immune system, and kills bacteria. The massage can create a feeling of relaxation and reduce depression by calming frayed nerves.

• Olfactory: The healing fragrances of the essential oils are released by burning scented candles or by mixing bath salts in warm water. The fragrance of the essential oils can release chemicals like Serotonin, Endorphins, and Enkephalin, which induce relaxation.

• Cosmetic: In this, the essential oils are applied on the body, skin and hair. The oils are often mixed with cosmetic products like bath soaps and face creams.

Health Benefits of Aromatherapy: Aromatherapy massage can heal several health problems. These include -

• Dermatitis

• Panic attacks

• Earaches and headaches

• Vertigo

• Urinary tract infections

• Depressions

• Anxiety

• Irritability

• Fatigue

• Menstrual cramps

Aromatherapy can also be used as a complementary therapy to heal:

• Laryngitis

• Flatulence

• Cancer

• Stress

• Arthritis

• Herpes

• Allergies

• Chickenpox

More Health Benefits:

• Research has proved that aromatherapy can increase the satisfaction of birthing mothers and enhance the experience of labor.

• Aromatherapy can also improve the symptoms of shingles outbreak.