Aromatherapy is one of the oldest forms of healing and it has been practiced around the world for centuries. It refers to the use of plant extracts and natural oils to relieve pain and rejuvenate the body.
Aromatherapy products are extracts from different parts of plants which include seeds, roots, stems, leaves, flowers, and bark. Pure organic or essential oils contain therapeutic properties that help to sooth certain maladies and disorders. But there’s a need to dilute them with vegetable oils or carrier oils to reduce their strength and potency. They can be harmful to the skin and other parts of the body when used in their pure form.
Each essential oil has its own unique property. It is one of the reasons why they are categorized into three major types. These are:
1. Massage Aromatherapy Oils
These are the essential oils that are normally used in massaging the the body to relax and relieve affected parts from pain, tension and certain discomforts.
Some of the most common massage aromatherapy oils include jojoba essential oil, grape seed essential oil, almond essential oil, and camphor essential oil.
2. Olfactory Aromatherapy Oil
Olfactory aromatherapy oil is comprised of plenty of essential oils. In fact, it is the largest group of oils available today. This type of oil works through their aroma or smell and they make their way into the brain and body through inhalation.
Practitioners of aromatherapy believe that olfactory aromatherapy oils work on the brain to unlock memories and stimulate the body to change naturally.
According to aromatherapy experts, olfactory essential oils send their relaxing scents to the brain through the olfactory nerves and stimulate it to release a number of natural hormones that help the body to relax and feel good.
Olfactory aromatherapy oils are effective in relieving stress, enhancing mood, promoting sleep and improving a person’s memory and learning ability. They are also used to improve the functions of the circulatory system, the immune system and the respiratory system.
3. Cosmetic Aromatherapy Oils
Cosmetic aromatherapy oils are the essential oils that people apply on their skin for the purpose of absorbing them through the pores of the skin. They are often used for cleansing, moisturizing, or toning the skin. They are also effective in treating skin disorders caused by fungi or bacteria.
These are the three most common types of aromatherapy oils. Now that you know them, it would now be easier for you to pick the right essential oil that suits your need.
But you should always remember to seek professional advice if you plan to use aromatherapy in the long term. You also need to read product labels before buying aromatherapy products.
