Aromatherapy: A Great Way to Relax Your Mind and Body

After a long day, there are a number of things to do for relaxation - chatting with friends, reading a good novel, playing a sport, cooking/baking, or sitting down to watch a game/movie/show. Then there are days that are longer than others where a massage or other therapeutic means may help soothe and re-energize tired souls.

Aromatherapy is one of these means of relaxation, where fragrant substances (lotions and inhalants) are selected for the various effects they can create. Some scents physical problems/complaints such as Cypress, an essential oil that combines well with Lavender, Juniper, and Citrus oils. It has a sweet and refreshing scent known to help cure asthma, bronchitis, cough, edema, hemorrhoids, menopause and/ or menstrual symptoms, muscle and nerve tension, oily skin and /or hair, and Rheumatism. Although it has healing capacities, Cypress also has antispasmodic properties, so it is not recommended during pregnancy.

Aside from physical benefits, aromatherapy may also affect moods or states of mind. Jasmine has been proven to affect both physical and emotional states of being- it can be used to eliminate or improve anxiety, catarrh, cough, headache, lack of confidence, Laryngitis, mental tension, and sensitive or dry skin. Jasmine combines well with chamomile, citrus oils, and rose. It has a warm, floral scent. It is basically a soothing and relaxing scent.

Oils can be categorized according to two basic results: healing for the mind, and healing for the body. As can be seen in the above-mentioned effects of Cypress and jasmine, problems or complaints healed by aromatherapy can range from anxiety to sensitive skin to bronchitis.

Aromatherapy can be used in at least three ways: cosmetic, massage, and olfactory. Whatever way it is used in, it is capable of affecting moods and promoting health in mind, body and spirit.