Have you come across Aromatherapy as an alternative to mainstream therapeutic methods?

That’s because it's not something new and has been around since 3500 years BC. Ancient Egypt has been known worldwide for developing it by employing aromatic plants and used it for medicinal purposes, religious and as cosmetics. It’s not only Egypt that promoted aromatherapy though but other civilizations like India,Iraq and China too reaped the benefits of it.

Hippocrates, father of medicine, believed that aromatic baths and scented massages can improve health. The aroma is considered beneficial for enhancing physical and mental health. It helps in managing pain, boosts relaxation and improves mood. 

The Indian Connection 

India is one of the oldest civilizations and Aromatherapy has been mentioned in Rigveda about 4500 BC. It has its roots in Ayurveda, Charak Samhita and Sushruta Samhita and has made reappearance a couple of times. 

It’s still very common to use incense sticks and flowers for worship as part of our daily religious ritual. We practise aromatherapy without knowing it and Indian rituals have been designed more logically than we think.

One of the first recorded incidents from ancient texts is from Ramayana, Wherein the aroma of Mrithasanjeevani was used to revive Lakshmana from near death along with other herbs to heal his wounds. The knowledge of Aromatherapy is an ancient knowledge and wealth.

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The What and Where of Aromatherapy 

There are certain instruments which are used to help aroma work its magic.

It could be in the form of -

Essential oils are most commonly used. They are extracted from flowers and herbs and they consist of an essence or a “fragrant part”.  

Some of the popular oils are -

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How Does it Work?

Do you have a favourite perfume or a cologne? Does a certain smell take you to some place else or make you nostalgic?

If the answer is yes, you have already experienced the powerful impact of smell receptors on our brains.

The aroma activates certain parts of our brains, like the limbic system that is a “memory” region and plays a role in our emotions. 

It also stimulates the hypothalamus and releases “feel good” hormones. Amygdala, on the other hand, triggers responses like excitement by evaluating the importance of a particular scent.

Aromatherapy positively affects neurotransmitters by releasing serotonin and this results in mood elevation. 

Though its effects cannot be completely separated from the placebo effect, if the association with the scent is positive, it will bring relaxation. 

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Benefits of Aromatherapy

The Side-Effects of Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is generally safe but one should be careful if they take any prescription medicines or have specific allergies.

How to Apply?

Breathe in, breathe out - 

Diffusers and inhalers can be used to inhale aroma for direct interaction with the olfactory senses.

Topical - 

Diluted oil can be applied over the skin through bath soaks and massages.

Dispersion - 

Diffusers can also be used to spread aroma in the air creating a calming ambience.

On a parting note, using aroma not only helps you smell irresistible but also makes you feel amazing by lifting mood and calming nerves. 

Also when one shops for an essential oil, go for dark coloured glass containers since plastic bottles dissolve overtime due to highly concentrated oil. 

Artificially fragrant oils should be avoided as they are laden with chemicals and are not recommended for Aromatherapy.  

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For professional care, contact a mental health expert at Heart It Out today!