7 of 18

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 2

and bathwater.

By using just one essential oil in this way, you wll soon see the benefits of aromatherapy and will be eager to investigate the subject in more depth.

Essential oils fall into several categories: The antiseptic oils, which include lavender, are very cleansing, and will be helpful in maintaining a sweet smelling home and a healthy atmosphere without the use of harsh chemicals. Eucalyptus and Tea Tree are also oils with powerful antiseptic qualities. They have a clean, fresh, sharp fragrance. Eucalyptus added to a tablespoon of water and burnt in an oil burner will clear the air of bad odors, such as cigarette smoke, and help you breathe easier.

Calming oils such as the floral oils can also be used in a number of ways, and can be mixed with the antiseptic oils to create softer fragrances. Lavender (again!), jasmine, rose, violet and other floral oils can create a stress free environment at home or at work. Sprinkle a few drops onto a handkerchief or tissue to take with you when you are going to a meeting or appointment that may cause stress. Sniffing the oil and inhaling its fragrance will put you into a calmer and more confident state of mind. If your job is stressful, store floral oil sachets among your work clothes.

To stimulate your senses, and your creativity, you need oils like thyme, rosemary, mint and sage. These oils clear away the clutter that clouds your thoughts and make concentration difficult. Having an oil burner with sage or thyme oil nearby when you are studying or working on a project can help keep you focused. These sharp herbal oils have many benefits. They can also be useful during periods of depression and headache. Burning an herbal oil in a darkened room will lift the emotions. You can also add these oils to carrier oil such as almond or jojoba and rub it into tired, sore muscles.

Essential oils can also be used to set a romantic or sociable mood. When you invite friends over, and you want the occasion to go well, prepare by creating a relaxed ambience with essential oils such as lemongrass, orange sandalwood and lavender. You can mix these oils, or place them in different areas of your house. Using a fresh citrus oil, or a warm and woody scent like sandalwood, at the front door gives an instant sense of welcome and well being to your guests.

For a more romantic mood, try the more sensual exotic oils such as patchouli, ylang ylang or intense rose. Be sparing with them, as a little can go a long way! Scent your cushions and sprinkle some on your carpet to allow fragrance to rise. Greet your special guest with the scent of tea roses at the door, a sure fire winner for setting the romantic mood.

Aromatherapy can be invaluable when a friend comes to you in trouble or you need comfort. Citrus oils are the best for lifting sad moods, and they give you the strength to face your troubles and carry on. Try the spirit refreshing scents of lemon or orange, or blend them with a relaxing scent like sandalwood to ground you and give you courage.

During illness, you need essential oils that uplift your spirit, and detoxify your environment. Here the citrus oils again come into their own, but they should be supported by hard working essential oils like lavender, juniper and eucalyptus.

When you use essential oils, it is important to remember to use a range of different oils. Using one fragrance over and over again will lessen its power as you become too accustomed to it. Besides, there are so many beautiful and invigorating fragrances to coose form,how could you stop at just one?

Learn more about this author, Gail Kavanagh.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2

Add your voice

Know something about What is aromatherapy??
We want to hear your view. Write now!