A Brief Introduction to Aromatherapy

 

Aromatherapy has become a catch-all phrase in recent years for just about all things that contain a fragrance or scent. Thousands of products on the market today are marketed under the premise of "Aromatherapy", but only a fraction of those products are really true aromatherapy products. True Aromatherapy products contain pure essential oils in a variety of methods for use.

So, what is Aromatherapy? Aromatherapy is the use of pure essential oils that have been extracted from living plants, and these essential oils can have a therapeutic and medicinal effect on the body and soul. Essential oils are volatile, oily substances: they are highly concentrated vegetal extracts that contain constituents such as terpenes, esters, hormones, vitamins, anti-bacterials, and antiseptics. Each plant can produce a variety of constituents and in varying concentrations.

There are several ways to administer aromatherapy::
ˇ Through inhalation
ˇ Through the skin via massage, bath, friction, or topical application
ˇ Through skin care and cosmetic use (facial care products like compresses,   masks, creams and lotions)
ˇ Hair Care

Regardless of the method taken, essential oils diffuse through the skin or olfactory membranes deep into the tissues and circulatory system. Inhalation is the easiest, most pleasant, and sometimes most effective way of taking them. External application is a very effective way to treat specific disorders.

Whatever method you decide to use to apply or use essential oils, be aware and cautious of how much you use and in what concentrations. As a general rule, pure essential oils must be diluted in some other base product such as a massage oil before applying topically to the skin. Some essential oils can cause irritation to the skin. Do not take essential oils internally.

Would you like to learn more about aromatherapy and essential oils? More information is available under our "Articles" web page.

Country Cottage Works has eight aromatherapy blends:Citrus Passion, Stress Relief, Energizing, Healing, Meditations, Sinus Relief, Romance, and Headache Relief. These are combinations of 100% pure essential oils to use for inhalation or to blend into a base product.