The use of aromatherapy essential oils is becoming an increasingly popular method of enhancing the mental and health benefits that come from choosing the natural approach towards relaxation and treatment. Today, aromatherapy is offered at clinics, health spas, and private institutions, as part of their selection of services. The use of aromatherapy essential oil therapy is also a practice that can take place within the comforts of your own home.

An aromatherapy essential oil utilizes the parts of a plant that generates a scent that can be used to treat disease and/or achieve a higher level of mental stimulation. An aromatherapy essential oil is extracted from a variety of different plant parts, including the flowers, leaves, rind, stalks, bark, or roots.

For example, an aromatherapy essential oil may come from the flowering tops of lavender and chamomile, the leaves of cinnamon and peppermint, the peel of an orange or lemon, cardamom seeds, tea tree twigs, or a handful of lemongrass. Woods, such as rosewood or cedarwood, also produce beneficial essential oils.

When the oils are mixed with another substance, such as lotion, alcohol, or other oils, an assortment of uses are created. The essential oils make great skin applications and inhalations. The oils also produce sprays to mist the air. Some people also use an aromatherapy essential oil to massage into the skin or transform common bath water. Essential oils also make convenient compresses and vaporizers

The popularity of the aromatherapy practice has elevated since more and more are looking for healthier ways of achieving health benefits. When used in the proper manner, essential oils have the power to deliver an array of helpful changes to both the body and the mind. Essential oils do not need to pass through the digestive system and are often used as massage oils applied to the skin. Depending on how you use an aromatherapy essential oil, the substances interact with the body in a variety of different ways.

Essential oils may undergo a chemical change through the blood stream; affect various systems in the body in a physiological way; or create a psychological response when inhaled. The process that goes into creating an essential oil includes many pounds of plant parts to develop the high concentration associated with the oils. For example, about 220 pounds of rose petals are typically used to produce only 4 to 5 teaspoons of essential oil. Once the oil is used in the aromatherapy process, a stimulation of the nerves takes place, which is responsible for sending impulses to the part of the brain that controls memory and emotion. Depending on the type of chosen oil, a user may experience a calming or stimulating journey.

An aromatherapy essential oil also works with various hormones and enzymes in the body, which can generate changes in blood pressure and other bodily functions. Certain oils may also create substances that combats pain, and relieves stress. There are also certain essential oils that treat infections, burns, depression, and insomnia. A few examples of popular aromatherapy essential oils includes lavender to ease menstrual cramps, eucalyptus to treat the common cold and coughs, rosemary to improve circulation, and peppermint for a relaxed massage.