by Lynda Kohn

Created on: October 27, 2009

I would like this to be a basic introduction to Aromatherapy. One could consider what I'm writing here as Aromatherapy 101. That is if it was presented as a college or university course. Entire books are being written on this treatment modality.
What aromatherapy basically is. Aromatherapy is using the essential and/or volatile oils of certain herbs for treatments in various health problems. See below in relevant chemistry for more on essential oils and volatile oils. It is a therapy that uses the aroma or fragrance of an herb. It utililizes the extremely concentrated oils.

Because the herbal component of the oil are in such fine concentration they can readily enter the pores of a person's body. Plus they can be quickly absorbed through the nose. Of course if one's nose is stuffed up by what ever reason this is the exception. These aromatherapy oils are so intense that lierally only a few drops are necessary. At the maximum for a bath, six drops at the most are needed. Even less drops are essential for any other type of aromatherapy. Never take aromatherapy oils internally. This is true, no matter what the circumstances for everybody. They are simply too strong to be ingested. It would be like ingesting at least one thousand times a dose. For example taking one droplemon essential oils by mouth would be the equivalent of eating one hundred lemons.
What is the rationale, theory behind aromatherapy. It is believed the scents effect the olfactory gland of the brain. The olfactory gland is responsible for one's nose's sense of smell. The olfactory nerve is physiologically connected to the limbic systme. That is the emotional part of the brain. This is how aromatherapy works. It works on the emotional level. This is why specific pleasant smells trigger emotions and even memories.
This alternative health therapy needs some time to be completely effective. There can be times where a few weeks are needed to notice even the slightest improvement. In other words, a person using aromatherapy, many times needs to be patient. One can use single scents or combinations. How the therapy is conducted depends on many factors. What the problem or problems are, the desires and goals of the patient and practioner and last but very important each other's preferences.

Aromatherapy is used to treat both mind and body. It can be used for depression, fatigue, controlling hunger, meditating. It can ease mild to moderate aches and pains. It can relax people who are under stress caused

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