Holiday Ease with Aromatherapy
by Lisa Schofield
Remedies Magazine, December 2006
The holiday season is fraught with all types of stress. Often we
consider this a "merry" time of year, but gift shopping, the logistics
of gathering friends and family, meal planning, and worrying about work
deadlines may leave us frazzled.
Sure, you can light candles scented with holiday fragrances and
enjoy the pleasing "scent-sation." But don't confuse this with
aromatherapy, which can actually help ease the stress and anxiety--and even
promote a restful night's sleep.
Scent Sense
Aromatherapy uses plant-derived essential oils to impact mood or
health. Essential oils affect us primarily through inhalation. Extremely
sensitive, our sense of smell is linked directly to the limbic system, a primal
area in the brain responsible for emotions and memory, which may explain why
aromatherapy is so effective.
Throughout time, certain plant oils have been noted for their
calming effects. A twelfth-century Arabian doctor reported that inhaling the
scents of rose and sandalwood would "quiet the heat of the brain." In
this region, people used frankincense and myrrh to promote sleep. During
the 1600s, herbalist Nicholas Culpeper wrote in his book Herbal that
chamomile oil "comforts both the head and brain."
Modern Science
Today, aromatherapy is used worldwide for managing depression,
chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, and stress. While essential oils have been used
for centuries, science is just beginning to confirm their benefits, particularly
for stress.
Researchers find ylang ylang oil significantly decreases blood
pressure and pulse rate. Inhaling this essential oil also increases alertness,
say researchers.
In one animal study, essential oil of angelica exhibited
antianxiety effects comparable to the pharmaceutical tranquilizer diazepam (aka
Valium). Many researchers agree that scent may be a complementary therapy for a
range of psychiatric disorders, but, unlike many conventional drugs, without the
accompanying adverse effects.
Enjoy Essential Oils
Pure essential oils can be used in a diffuser or aromalamp. You
can even place a few drops in a handkerchief and inhale. Bergamot is said to be
regenerative and balancing, and it may help dispel melancholia and mild
depression. Lavender has been found effective for decreasing stress, anxiety,
and depression. Mandarin is believed to help relieve insomnia and stress.
Remember, many mass-market products contain synthetic scents
rather than true essential oils. High-quality essential oils can be found at
your local natural products store. Besides helping you enjoy your holiday
season, they make thoughtful gifts!
Aromatherapy Uses
Whether you plan to unwind in an aromatherapeutic bath or spritz
a relaxing scent before company arrives, use the guidelines below.
MASSAGE OIL: 10 to 12 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
BATH: 3 to 15 drops per tub, depending on the essential
oil.
INHALANT: 3 to 5 drops in a bowl of hot water.
FOOT BATH: 5 to 10 drops per quart of water.
ROOM SPRAY: 20 drops per four ounces of water.
Natural Health Hut
