Have you ever wondered if you can change your mood just from smelling something new? The scent of oranges, fresh flowers, spices, and the positive feelings you get from catching a whiff of cinnamon are just a few examples of aromatherapy. Aromatherapy has been used for thousands of years as a holistic healing method. By making use of essential oils from plants and flowers, aromatherapy can help you get out of a bad mood, get a quick dose of refreshment, or even just help you relax.

History Lesson

Aromatherapy was used extensively throughout Europe during the Middle Ages, helping to fight disease and mental disorders. Physicians’ studies and research were undertaken at apothecaries, special chambers where herbs and fragrances were distilled for different purposes. Today, aromatherapy is commonly used as a natural health alternative to treat disease, illness, and other conditions. From relieving anxiety to helping with depression, different scents can be combined for their uplifting properties.

The use of the “power of scent” continues today with perfumes, fragrances, and natural oils. Combinations of aromatherapeutic essential oils in candles and room sprays can also help you create a refreshing environment.

What is Aromatherapy?

Each type of herb and plant has different properties, and offers multiple benefits in its natural form. For example, lavender has natural relaxing properties that can help you get a good night’s rest; just a couple of drops of lavender essential oil under your pillow can lead to deep sleep.

Orange oil extracted from orange leaves, or even orange rinds, has an uplifting effect. An energy booster, the oil is great for improving your mood during an afternoon slump.

Chamomile has a natural relaxing effect and is often found in tea form. The oil’s soothing effects also make it a valuable addition to skin healing treatments, and it can even be taken medicinally to reduce inflammation. Lemon verbena also has soothing properties, and can help detoxify the body and skin naturally.

Common Types of Aromatherapeutic Oils

Other essential oils with various health benefits include:

• Cinnamon: stimulating.




• Peppermint: stimulating and can help improve memory.




• Rose: uplifting and soothing.




• Jasmine: calming and relaxing.




• Eucalyptus: relaxing, and a natural decongestant.




• Grapefruit: uplifting and detoxifying.




• Black pepper: stimulating and energizing.

How to Get Started

If you’re looking for a way to improve you mood or even help put your body into detox mode, aromatherapy may be the answer. Essential oils are extracted from natural plants and herbs, and can then be added to lotions, creams, or fragrance sprays. You can enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy by:

• Adding a few drops of essential oil to lotions or creams.




• Mixing essential oils with massage oil (never put pure essential oils directly on the skin).




• Inhaling the oil for an instant refresher.




• Adding a few drops to a cushion for a scented pillow.

—Sabah Karimi