Bergamot, lavender, eucalyptus. Their fragrance supports not only health, but also well-being

Aromatherapy is a practice that has been used for thousands of years. As far back as ancient Greece, Hippocrates, considered the father of modern medicine, recommended its use, arguing that baths and massages using natural essential oils were a recipe for good health. Oils extracted from wild plants have unique properties that can be used for a variety of purposes - from relieving stress and improving the quality of sleep, to improving concentration and supporting healing processes in the body. What other benefits do fragrances bring us?

Aromatherapy

The sense of smell in humans is extremely sensitive, so that scents can have an instant effect on our brains. In practice, this means that we respond quickly to the effects of essential oils, feeling their effects on our mood, including relaxation or concentration. Often it is specific aromas that bring back memories of past moments, people or places. This is because they have the power to remember - both positive and negative memories, and through these associations can put us in a state of deep relaxation or, on the contrary, stimulate and refresh the mind.

- The entire process begins when odor molecules are picked up by the olfactory cells in the nose, from where the information is transmitted directly to the olfactory system and then to the brain. It is believed that inhaling essential oils stimulates specific areas in the limbic system of the brain - the center of emotion, memory and learning - making aromatherapy offer a versatile effect. It can have a direct effect on the mental state, affecting stress levels, mood or even cognitive processes," explains Dariusz Cwajda, founder of the Institute of Aromatherapy and vice president of the Polish Aromatherapy Society.

Time for oil

Essential oils are highly concentrated liquid plant extracts derived from flowers, leaves, resins, bark or fruit peels. They offer a wide range of health and well-being benefits, from relaxation and mood enhancement to immune support. They also have many uses in everyday life - great as a laundry additive or insect repellent. When choosing oils, it's crucial to pay attention to their purity and origin - it's best to go for 100% natural and certified ones, without synthetic additives.

- To make the use of essential oils safe, it is important to choose those from trusted suppliers, as low-quality products may contain dangerous admixtures, chemicals or preservatives, which are strong allergens. Each oil is characterized by slightly different effects. Among those with soothing and relaxing properties, lavender is particularly prized for calming, reducing feelings of stress and improving sleep quality. To combat nervous tension states, bergamot, rose, geranium or marjoram will help. Ylang-ylang with its floral and spicy aroma (considered an aphrodisiac!) will also have a calming effect. If you struggle with frequent infections of the upper respiratory tract, consider inhalations with eucalyptus and peppermint oils - the latter also has an expectorant effect. In turn, ginger oil will help with nausea," says Dariusz Cwajda.

The range of essential oils is really wide, and the possibilities of combinations are endless. It is worth reading, searching and trying to find the ones that will bring us the most benefits.

Aromatherapy at home - simpler than you think

The search for holistic methods to find inner peace is becoming increasingly important these days. In an era of mindfulness and health, aromatherapy is experiencing a renaissance! Combined with other stress-reducing practices, such as meditation, yoga and Pilates, it can bring excellent results for the body and mind. How to use oils to bring out their full potential? The growing trend of aromatherapy has made it possible to buy aromatherapists for as little money as possible, tempting with their attractive appearance, low price and promise of improved well-being. But beware - not all of them are safe and effective. Before you decide to buy one, pay attention to a few key aspects that will help you choose a diffuser that will last for years.

- When deciding whether to buy an aromatherapist, it is important to check whether the device has the appropriate safety certificates and what materials it is made of. Cheap plastics can not only have a bad effect on the quality of the smell emitted, but also overheat, posing a fire hazard. So which one should you choose? Quality ultrasonic aromatizers use vibration to create a mist of water and oils, which allows them to retain their therapeutic properties without heating. They are quiet and effective. Some of the aromatizers with a built-in rechargeable battery can also work outdoors, on a terrace or balcony. Along with a special blend of oils, they will repel mosquitoes and other insects, doing a great job during warm evenings in the garden," says Katarzyna Krawczynska, brand expert at Stadler Form.

Scented fireplaces have become equally popular. They work on a simple principle - the heat generated by a small candle placed in the lower part of the fireplace heats the bowl of the upper part, which contains the essential oil, emitting your favorite scent. Note, however, that the downside of this method is the production of tar, especially when using paraffin candles, as well as the need to keep an eye on the fire.

More and more of us are looking for natural ways to improve our well-being, and aromatherapy meets these needs. Just a few drops of the right oil, added even to a bath, can positively affect our mood and well-being! So which oil will you choose?

Source: press mat.