Wellness
What Is Aromatherapy Explained
Discover aromatherapy, the holistic practice using essential oils to enhance mental and physical well-being through the power of scent.
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What is it?
Aromatherapy is a holistic healing treatment that uses aromatic essential oils to improve the health of the body, mind, and spirit. Also known as essential oil therapy, this practice has been used for centuries in various cultures for medical and religious purposes. It is considered a form of complementary and alternative medicine. The oils, which are highly concentrated extracts from plants, flowers, and leaves, are typically inhaled through a diffuser or applied topically to the skin in lotions, bath salts, or during a massage.
Why is it trending?
Aromatherapy's popularity is rising as more people seek natural, plant-based methods for self-care and stress management. It aligns with a growing interest in holistic wellness and mindfulness practices that support both mental and emotional health. For many, it serves as a complementary therapy to ease anxiety, improve sleep, and boost feelings of relaxation alongside conventional medical treatments. Its accessibility, allowing use at home, also contributes to its widespread appeal for creating a calming personal environment and routine.
How does it affect people?
Aromatherapy primarily works through the sense of smell. When essential oils are inhaled, scent molecules travel from the olfactory nerves directly to the brain's limbic system, which controls emotions and memory. This stimulation can influence heart rate, stress levels, and blood pressure, and trigger the release of chemicals like serotonin. This process can help reduce anxiety, alleviate symptoms of depression, improve sleep quality, and boost mood. When applied topically, some oils may also help soothe sore joints and relax tight muscles.