Effects of Aromatherapy

There are several ways that you can reap the benefits of the effects of aromatherapy. You can add essential aromatherapy oils to your bath, mix them with a carrier oil and massage them into your skin (or have someone do it for you), or simply inhale the aroma provided by a diffuser, candle, oil burner, or scented pillow.

Although there are at more than 40 essential oils, there are certain ones that are more commonly used and generally well tolerated. Use the guide below to find the scent that is best suited to your needs/situation.

• Oils that produce the relaxing effects of aromatherapy
  Lavendar, Bergamot, Jasmine, Ylang Ylang, Neroli, Basil


• Oils that produce anxiety reducing effects
  Lemon Balm (Melissa), Cedarwood, Rose, Sweet Marjoram


• Oils that promote sound sleep
  Lavendar, Chamomile, Marjoram, Neroli, Sandalwood, Clary Sage

If you're using an aromatherapy essential oil (or a blend of several) applied to the skin , the oil needs to be mixed with a "carrier oil," such as almond, sunflower or grape-seed oil, because the majority of essential oils are too powerful to come in direct contact with your skin.

As a general rule, add 5 drops of essential oil to 10 milliliters of carrier oil and blend blend.

In addition to helping you to relax and sleep well, there are other effects that aromatherapy essential oils can have on your mind/body.

• Breathing or chest problems
  Jasmine, Rosemary, Cypress, Peppermint, Eucalyptus
• To rejuvenate or uplift
  Lemon, Lemongrass, Spearmint, Rosemary, Sweet Orange, Bergamont, Cedarwood
• Healing and anti-bacterial
  Tea tree, Sandalwood, Frankincense, Sweet Marjoram, Peppermint, Patchouli
• Aphrodisiac/romance
  Jasmine, Rose

So if you want to wind down after a busy day at work, reduce anxiety, or get a good night's sleep, the effects of aromatherapy may help you. For more information on using aromatherapy, click here.

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