The Alternate Healing Therapies: Part 2 – Aromatherapy

Continuing from the first part where we discussed Acupuncture, the second part of the series will focus on Aromatherapy, a holistic treatment that is quite different from Acupuncture but still aims to deliver similar outcomes.

What is Aromatherapy?

In the world of healing therapies, Aromatherapy also holds its place as a holistic treatment to uplift, free the body from ailments, and manage the side effects of modern treatment methods. Due to its use of various types of essential oils, it is also called essential oil therapy. In the treatment, different types of essential oils are diffused in the form of aroma so the individual can inhale them. However, all the essential oils are first diluted with the help of a carrier oil before use. Many specific oils are also applied on the body to keep it relaxed and relieve pain. All the essential oils used are natural and obtained by combining different types of oils derived from plants and seeds.

How Aromatherapy Can Help in Healing?

Aromatherapy has the potential to deal with many ailments such as asthma, insomnia, fatigue, depression, inflammation, peripheral neuropathy, menstrual issues, alopecia, cancer, erectile dysfunction, arthritis, menopause, etc.
The therapy uses a range of oils such as clary sage, cypress, eucalyptus, fennel, geranium, ginger, helichrysum, lavender, lemon, lemongrass, mandarin, neroli, patchouli, peppermint, Roman chamomile, rose, rosemary, tea tree, vetiver, and ylang-ylang that are rich in medicinal compounds. Inhaling these oils or using them topically on your body keeps you relaxed and uplifts your emotional state.

Potential Side-Effects of Aromatherapy

Since essential oils are organic in nature, they typically do not show any side effects. However, some individuals who are allergic to certain compounds or smells may experience rashes, asthma attacks, headaches, allergic reactions, skin irritation, and nausea. In addition, individuals with specific conditions such as hay fever, asthma, epilepsy, high blood pressure, eczema, and psoriasis should consult with their doctor and the aromatherapist before attending a session.

Although aromatherapy can help you deal with many ailments, it must only be used by a highly experienced practitioner who has a thorough knowledge of essential oils and their properties. Additionally, if you have a medical history, you should first consult your doctor and only then opt for Aromatherapy.

Check out the next post in this series of Alternate Healing Therapies – Hypnotherapy.