Topics: Therapies
Aromatherapy
(2 votes)
Oils for troubled minds - indulge in the ancient Chinese art of aromatherapy… Thought to have originated in ancient China, aromatherapy is based on the healing properties of plants, from which concentrated aromatic oils are extracted. The vapours of these ‘essential oils’ are then inhaled and carried via the bloodstream both to the nervous system and to the parts of the brain that control the release of hormones and emotions.
Essential oils are used to treat stress-induced ailments, respiratory problems, digestive disorders and allergies. Aromatherapy is also just a good, quick way to unwind.
Essential oils are usually massaged into the skin, but there are other ways to use them:
* Place a few drops on a handkerchief or pillow, or in a bowl of hot water,
and breathe in.
* Drizzle a little onto a cotton ball placed on a hot radiator, or buy a
vaporising ring to place on a lightbulb.
* A few drops in a hot bath can relax muscles and ease aches, insomnia and arthritis.
Relaxing and calming oils include: bergamot, chamomile, clary sage, cypress, frankincense, geranium, juniper, lavender, melissa and sandalwood. Take advice before using essential oils at home if you are pregnant or have a medical condition.
www.naha.org (National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy)
www.nhr.kz
www.holisticmed.com
Caroline Law is a health writer and regular contributor to The Sunday Times, The Times and Marie Claire magazine.
