Aromatherapy has been used for centuries from the ancient Egyptians and Greeks, to some modern-day hospitals including those in France, Australia and England. Essentials oils are being widely researched and tested for their effectiveness in treating many physical problems such as inflammation, infection, heart problems, menstrual cycle imbalances, and skin conditions. These oils are also being proven to be effective for concerns regarding the nervous system and emotional well-being such as anxiety, insomnia, stress management, depression, exhaustion and grief.
How the Essential Oils work on the Body Essential oils can be absorbed into the body and into the bloodstream through several methods. This has been clinically proven by taking a blood test twenty minutes after exposure to an essential and seeing the active chemical components within the blood.
The most common form of absorption is through inhalation, whereby the molecules pass into the bloodstream in the lungs (much the way asthma medication diffuses into the bloodstream, as well as nicotine from cigarettes when inhaled.) These molecules go into the blood stream and act upon specific target organs or organ systems. Some have very healthy benefits for the systems that they support, but at the same time some oils can be dangerous depending on a persons overall health.
Oils are also absorbed via the olfactory bulb (the part in the nose that we recognize smell with) and this information travels to the limbic system in the brain. The neat thing about this is, this is where we store our memories and emotions, so essential oils can have a powerful effect on our frame of mind and mental well-being.
The third way essential oils are absorbed is through the skin. Massages with essential oils blended in nutritious carrier oils can be used for therapeutic reasons. These blends are tailored to an individuals' personal health history and their needs. I have been working with people with heart conditions, anxiety, PMS, chronic pain, as well as immune support.
There is enormous potential for the utilization of essential oils and treatment. I will continue to develop and add to this site with my clinical experiences and suggestions for home-use.
