Aromatherapy can be a wonderful thing, it can help us relax, rejuvenate, feel less pain and simply feel better. Essential oils, the ingredient used in aromatherapy, are concentrated aromatic extracts taken from the roots, leaves, rind, stalks, seeds, bark, or blossoms of plants. There are a few theories on how and why essential oils work and that is because researchers aren’t quite sure yet. People with certain health conditions should not use aromatherapy, so please talk with your doctor before using essential oils.

My first experience using aromatherapy was using “Relax, Pulse Point Therapy” from Bath & Body Works. I found that when I used this product, which was a combination of many oils, I would have some relief from my headache pain. I always used it while waiting for pain relieving medicine to kick in, as well as on its own for milder headaches. It was also wonderful for helping me relax before falling sleep. Even The Helpful Hubby, who was skeptical, found that it helped his headache pains. You can buy a similar, newer version of this product at Bath & Body Works today.

I bring my own essential oils to any massage appointment I go to, in case the therapist does not have any oils to use during my message. If you ask me,  incorporating aromatherapy really adds a whole new layer of amazingness to massage! I have an oil diffuser that I use at home that makes the house smell wonderful, as well as give me the health benefits! I also use peppermint oil in my vinegar-water homemade household cleaner to cut the smell of the vinegar and give me energy while I clean.

I recent Arthritis Today article, entitled Good Scents, mentioned that green apple essential oils reduced migraine pain and suggested it might have similar effects on joint pain. The article also mentioned orange, grapefruit and tangerine relieved digestive problems, including an upset stomach. I haven’t had experience with these fruity essential oils, but I’m excited to give them a try! Other tried and true essential oils are: vanilla (for relaxation), peppermint, citrus and jasmine (for concentration, focus, alertness) and lavender (for relaxation).

What has your experience with aromatherapy been?

An Oil Diffuser*

*Image Credit: from www.wikipedia.org