Aromatherapy to Relax or Recharge - Part 1

The word aroma, meaning "a pleasant or agreeable odor arising from spices, plants, or flowers," combined with the word therapy, or "the remedial treatment of a disease or other physical or mental disorder," gives us the true definition of the word aromatherapy: a healing modality that involves the use of aromatic essences or essential oils of plants.

Incorporating essential oils into your life is a pleasurable way to enhance your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Aromatherapy can beautify your complexion, reduce stress, stimulate creativity, lull you to sleep, and pep you up, as well as help heal burns and minor cuts and scratches, reduce scar formation, and aid in cold and flu prevention . . . plus a myriad of other uses. The study of aromatherapy is an intriguing and amazing science! One I suggest that you delve into if you are even remotely interested in plant-based healing methods.

Below are three simple recipes for using aromatherapy to improve your life. Next week I'll share a few more formulations with you.

Strike A Balance

1. One of the easiest and most pleasant ways to benefit from aromatherapy is in the bath. At day's end, add 8-10 drops of your favorite gentle essential oil, such as lavender, Roman or German chamomile, marjoram, clary sage, or rose geranium, to 2 teaspoons of jojoba oil, almond oil, or any bland vegetable oil. Pour this blend into a full tub of warm water and swish with your hands to mix. Slip into the water and breathe deeply. Relax . . .

2. Intensify the potency of your peppermint tea. Give it a little energizing zing by adding 1 or 2 drops of essential oil of peppermint. Inhale the invigorating vapors and sip it slowly. This tea is super for a midmorning pick-me-up, or to relieve a stuffy head or case of indigestion. Makes your breath minty-fresh, too!

3. To ease the pain of muscle cramps, sore tendons, arthritis, or overexertion in general, the clean, fresh familiar scent of eucalyptus radiata, wintergreen, rosemary, or sweet marjoram makes a soothing addition to massage oil. Add 25-50 drops of essential oil to 1/2 cup of almond oil, hazelnut, jojoba, apricot kernel, or bland olive oil, mix well, and massage away the discomfort. Enlist the help of a partner or good friend if possible, and promise to return the favor.


NOTE: The above article was sourced from the book, "Organic Body Care Recipes", by Stephanie Tourles, Storey Publishing, 2007. The information given is true and complete to the best of Ms. Tourles' knowledge. All recommendations are made without guarantee on the part of Ms. Tourles. The author disclaims any liability in connection with the use of this information - it is for educational purposes only.