Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils with the intention of improving one's physical and mental well-being. An essential oil is essentially a liquid that is distilled from a certain plant. Since the oil is obtained from the roots, stems, and leaves of the plant, it basically contains the essence of the plant. By inhaling and/or applying the essential the oils of aromatic plants, one can help enhance physical and mental functions.

What are the different types of Aromatherapy?

Olfactory aromatherapy is the most widely known form of aromatherapy. In this aromatherapy form, you release the essential oils involved into your environment, for the purpose of inhaling their particles. You can either spray the oils into the air, or you can use specialized aromatherapy equipment to diffuse its components.

In massage aromatherapy, you combine the benefits of essential oils with the inherent goodness of a massage. In this form of aromatherapy, the essential oils is diluted with a carrier oil and applied directly to a person's skin. The nutrients of the oil are then absorbed into the body.

In cosmetic aromatherapy, essential oils are used as skin, body, and hair care products.

Why You Want an Aroma

The reason why you want to get into aromatherapy is because of the health benefits it offers. Essential oils, because of their concentrated forms, contain a large portion of a plant's health benefits. The aroma produced by the use of the oil is believed to relax both body and mind, triggering a whole host of beneficial processes. A basic principle of aromatherapy is that it stimulates the immune system.

Here are some of the uses of aromatherapy:

As an antiseptic. Antiseptics are substances that prevent microorganisms like bacteria and viruses from growing and reproducing. Some essential oils are capable of killing bacteria; others simply impede their growth.

As anesthesia. Anesthetics are substances that block the perception of pain and other sensation. Anesthetics, as you probably know, are often necessary in major medical procedures ? it allows people to undergo surgery without undue stress. Be aware, however, that many anesthetics are so strong that they can knock you unconscious. Since some essential oils can be that powerful, you should definitely careful about the amount of oils that you use.

As an immunostimulator. Immunostimulators are substances that enhance and increase the activity of our immune system. Some essential oils can actually improve the capacity of the body to defend itself against various illnesses.

As a stimulant. In much the same way that music can stimulate our brain through the faculty of hearing, so can aromatherapy stimulate our minds through the olfactory sense. Aromatherapy relaxes the brain, allowing for a better flow of ideas and clarity of thought.