Our sense of smell is extraordinary and amazing. One whiff of a delicate rose scent can soothe a person and transport them back in time to a summer day when the perfume of heady flowers in the sun warmed one to the core and etched a memory of happiness in the mind. For another person, it could possibly remind them of a less than pleasant experience and actually cause a physical reaction when inhaling the aroma that is not at all helpful or enjoyable.
It’s undeniable that scents can register with us in an intense way. Whether or not one believes in the healing power of aromatherapy, there is much to be said about the effect certain scents seem to have on us and how they impact our health and well being.
Aromatherapy has been used since Egyptian times and was prized by early European healers even though the name aromatherapy was not used until the early 20th century. More recently than that Dr. Alan Hirsch, neurologist and psychiatrist, had this to say on the subject:
“Smell acts directly on the brain, like a drug…We know from brain wave frequency studies that smelling lavender increases alpha waves in the back of the head, which are associated with relaxation. An odor such as jasmine increases beta waves in the front of the head, which are associated with a more alert state.”
The tool aromatherapy gives us to use is essential oils that are extracted from plants. Unlike oils such as mineral oil, essential oils penetrate the skin. They are not to be used without some knowledge as some essential oils are not made for direct contact with skin and must be used with a carrier oil. Every minute spent learning about essential oils pays you back tenfold and is a worthwhile investment of time and energy.
Essential oils can be used to clean, to heal, to comfort, to prevent conditions, to promote well being and much, much more. My personal experience using them goes back 20 years and I can say without a doubt one essential oil aided in me breaking an addiction with nicotine. I will be sharing all about that soon. *smiles*
The brand I have chosen to use with is Aura Cacia, one I have used for years and am delighted to recommend as they pride themselves on providing a full ingredient disclosure, are environmentally friendly and do not test on animals. I can tell you for a fact that I have never been disappointed in the slightest with any product from this company and they are the only company I currently purchase essential oils and carrier oils from.
For those not familiar with the benefits of essential oils I leave you with the following links. As for me, there is a bath with geranium oil and lavender that is calling my name.
Reading Material:
Thoughts to ponder: Have you tried adding essential oils to your life? Can you remember a scent that still affects you to this day? Are you open to alternative forms of healing?
