How do essential oils work?

Aromatherapy is a natural treatment with essences extracted from plants. It is known that essential oils can improve the well-being of mind, body and spirit, even our quality of life. Herbal and aromatic treatments have been used since ancient times and date back to about 1000 years. The term aromatherapy was first coined and mentioned in 1937 after researching the therapeutic benefits of essential oils. So how do essential oils work and what benefits can we get from them if we use them correctly and responsibly.

How to use essential oils

Aromatherapy is usually performed in the form of inhalation or topical use. During inhalation, particles of essential oils are inhaled, the chemicals in them enter our respiratory tract, the limbic system (part of the brain), and reach the brain. Essential oils used in topical form are rubbed directly into the skin. Their substances are absorbed through the blood. However, it should be noted that it is not advisable to use essential oils directly on the skin, they should be mixed with a base oil (such as olive, coconut or almond). There is also a specific branch of aromatherapy called aromatic medicine that includes the internal use of essential oils through the digestive system. However, this practice is not widely used and is strictly not recommended for inexperienced users who perform aromatherapy at home.

Before starting aromatherapy, it is very important to know which oils are suitable for this, to know about their types, chemicals and properties. Make sure that the use of essential oils does not harm you and others. However, nature has not been stingy and completely safe, everyday essential oils, the aroma of which will be pampered by everyone, even beginners of aromatherapy.

Relaxing effect

Most essential oils have a soothing relaxing effect. The substances contained in essential oils can help calm down, reduce nervous tension, help to relax before or during bedtime. Certain essential oils are great for reducing muscle tension and maintaining a balanced nervous system. A few drops of bergamot, lavender or chamomile essential oil can help improve your emotional state or even skin condition.

Toning effect

Some oils have a strong tonic effect. They are especially suitable for people who want to concentrate and keep their thoughts clean. Try the essential oils of lemon, peppermint, balsamic fir. They are recommended to keep your energy active during the day. The wonderful aroma will not only help you focus, it is a great way to protect yourself from fatigue and tension.

Pain relief

Essential oils can also reduce some back, muscle or headaches. Try peppermint, clove or sage essential oils to reduce headaches. To relieve muscle pain, you can try lavender, black pepper, rosemary essential oils. Keep in mind that some oils (such as black pepper) are not recommended for inhalation use.

Reduction of cold symptoms

Plant extracts have long been used to treat colds and reduce symptoms. The inhalation method of essential oils is perfect for alleviating these ailments. Because the substances that soothe and act on the symptoms of colds enter the airways directly. Essential oils of lavender, tea tree, spruce needles, cloves, sweet oranges are perfect for combating sore throat, cough, runny nose.

Disinfection of premises

Essential oils are also suitable for air and indoor disinfection. Add a few drops of tea tree, lemongrass, copal, rosemary essential oil to the water you are washing the floor with. This method will help get rid of bacteria and germs. For cleaning and disinfection of indoor air, it is proposed to use essential oil diffusers, which disperse oil microparticles into the environment. This way you will enjoy aromatherapy and the home air will stay fresh and clean.