How to Use Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy involves the use of essential oils from herbs and flowers for therapeutic benefits. Many claim that this approach can treat a variety of conditions--everything from depression to cold sores.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Aromatherapy oils
• Dropper

Improve Your Health and Well-Being With Aromatherapy

1. Give your hair a boost. Facilitate thick, lustrous hair by adding 1 to 2 drops rosemary oil to your hair brush before brushing.

2. Stave off a cold. Add a few drops of thyme oil to a pan of water and allow to simmer on the stove. Inhale and enjoy.

3. Cool a fever. Add 1 drop each of eucalyptus, peppermint and lavender oils to a pot of water. Use a clean washcloth and apply this mixture to the body for soothing relief.

4. Cure a hangover. Blend equal parts juniper, carrot, fennel, cedarwood, grapefruit, lavender, rosemary and lemon oils. Prepare a bath and add 6 to 8 drops of this blend.

5. Alleviate the aches and pains of arthritis. Combine 1 part sage, cajeput and basil oils to 4 parts jojoba oil and massage into sore joints. This treatment also works wonders for sore muscles.

6. Put an end to smelly feet. Add a few drops of geranium oil to shoes. Alternatively, dab a cotton ball with some lemon oil and place it in your shoe.

7. Banish a headache. Massage 1 drop of rosemary or lavender oil into the back of your neck.

8. Remove a wart. Apply 1 drop of lemon oil daily to the wart until it clears.

9. Sharpen your memory and alertness. Rosemary oil is said to improve mental function when its scent is inhaled.

10. Learn more about the uses and applications of aromatherapy by visiting the International Federation of Aromatherapists Web site (see Resources below). This site is also an excellent resource should you choose to hire a professional aromatherapist.

Tips & Warnings

• Aromatherapy oils vary from inexpensive to expensive, depending on the oils you choose to purchase. The country in which an oil is harvested can have a huge impact on its cost. The most costly oils are those which are organic and wild-harvested.
• Droppers are inexpensive and are easily available online.
• Some essential oils can irritate the skin. Additionally, given their potency, they can result in toxic reactions such as liver damage if not mixed with a carrier oil such as rosehip seed oil or sweet almond oil.
• Do not attempt to use aromatherapy to treat severe symptoms like sudden loss of vision or speech. Instead, seek the care of a doctor.
• Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.

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