The History of Aromatherapy
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Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of essential oils from herbs, flowers, and other plants. Oils can either be absorbed through diffusion or by massaging them into the skin.
Though the term "aromatherapy" did not appear until the early 1900s, the concept has been around for thousands of years. Egyptians used odors to treat diseases, and the Greek physician Dioscorides even wrote books on essential oils and their healing properties.
Nowadays, aromatherapy is used to improve health and well-being. Oils such as Rose, Lavender, Bergamot, Orange, and Lemon are examples of essential aromatic oils that are commonly used to relieve anxiety, stress, and depression.
A study published by the Medical Sciences Journal of Islamic Azad University showed how inhalation of lavender and rose oils reduced levels of anxiety and depression in students. Further, lavender has been linked with improved sleep.
Just don't expect essential oils to be magical elixirs. They shouldn't replace standard medical care.
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The influence of aromatherapy on the brain
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Oils send signals to the limbic system in your brain. The limbic system controls emotions, stress levels, heart rate, and emotional functions.
Through the inhalation of oils, the oil factory bulb filters the signal given by the oil. Mitral cells then carry the output signals from the olfactory bulb to the olfactory cortex, which allows you to perceive and recognize the scent of the oil. Interestingly, the mitral cells do not only lead to the olfactory cortex, but they also carry the signals to other areas in the brain's limbic system. When you inhale rose, you inhale molecules, which travel up your nose leading to the olfactory membrane.
The olfactory membrane has nerves (olfactory receptors). Once these nerves take in a sense, they send signals to the olfactory bulb, which in turn sends signals to the limbic system and cortex. This releases hormones. The hormones are hence influenced for the better. This then affects your emotions and healing responses positively.
Aromatherapy may not have been proven to cure diseases but at the very least, it can improve your mood.
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Essential oils and their effect on you
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There are dozens of essential oils, all with different fragrances and chemical makeups. Which essential oils are best depends on what symptoms you're looking to ease or fragrances you prefer. Some of the oils most preferred and used in our Yang Boxes are the following:
Lavender.
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Lavender is undeniably the most popular essential oil for all age groups. Lavender is excellent for skin care as its anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties help soothe irritated and sensitive skin.
Of course, it is widely known as the best essential oil for relaxation as it helps calm stress and anxiety, eases headaches, and promotes restful sleep. Together with its unmistakable aroma and unique applications, lavender is used to promote calm and relaxed feelings.
Lavender blends well with most oils, but especially Cedarwood, Clary Sage, Pine Needle, Geranium, Vetiver, Patchouli, Citruses, and floral oils.
SLEEP & RELAX
Lemon.
Lemon (Citrus limon) has a light, fresh citrus scent that's mood-lifting, energizing, and promotes optimism. It has been found that lemon oils activate dompamine production decreasing anxiety. It helps support healthy immune, respiratory, circulatory, and digestive systems.
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Lemon blends well with Lavender, Lavandin, Sandalwood, Frankincense, Chamomile, Fennel, Eucalyptus, Juniper Berry, other citruses, and floral oils like Neroli, Ylang Ylang, Rose, and Geranium.
MOOD-LIFT & OPTIMISM
ENERGY & FOCUS BOOST
Peppermint.
Peppermint (Mentha piperita) has a penetrating grassy, mint scent that's mentally stimulating and energy-boosting. It helps increase focus, mental clarity, memory, alertness, and concentration while soothing nervous stress.
Peppermint is believed to help relieve headache symptoms and provide relief from nasal and respiratory congestion caused by allergies or the common cold.
Peppermint blends well with Rosemary, Lavender, Marjoram, Lemon, Eucalyptus, and other mints.