Whether you want to feel happy, focused, comforted or calm, aromatherapy has the power to teleport you into a superior mood.
The smell is our most primitive sense. Our smell center — the Olfactory Bulb — links to the limbic system in the brain, which is responsible for memory, learning, emotions and much more. This means that certain smells can evoke powerful memories and feelings. Its impact should not be underestimated. Indeed, in a study noted in Holladay’s Saltz’s Ted Talk, people were more willing to donate to a charity if the room smelled of citrus.
Aromatherapy uses natural plant extracts called essential oils, which are natural chemical compounds, all with their own unique therapeutic properties. Essential oils have been used as mood-enhancers since ancient times in China and Greece, but aromatherapy is rooted in modern science, and it boasts a sea of mental and physical benefits.
Oils
Some essential oils are stimulants — they boost your energy. The impact of Jasmine’s sweet romantic fragrance has been compared to that of coffee. Grapefruit’s tangy scent also helps fight fatigue, as well as warding off symptoms of anxiety and depression.
If you are feeling overwhelmed with work, bergamot is a handy oil to uplift the senses, bring clarity, and dissipate brain fog. Geranium is another great scent for those looking to be stimulated but also keeps stress at bay.
Lavender is the probably most well-researched essential oil and is efficacious in calming you down, unwinding and promoting deep sleep; perfect for both those struggling with anxiety and insomnia. It can also be soothing to those struggling with cramps or abdominal pain if applied topically. Simply dilute no more than 3 drops into a carrier oil such as olive or coconut and lather onto your stomach.
Rose has soothing properties, hence its popularity in skincare, and also works great in a hot bath at the end of a hard day.
Neroli is superb at calming nerves, so it is a useful oil to have on hand before a big presentation or speech. For a quick fix place, 3 drops into a hankie and cup it around your nose (but not touching it) and inhale a few breaths.
Lemon and rosemary are immune stimulants and can help treat a number of respiratory illnesses as well as bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. Eucalyptus is also fab when rubbed onto the chest and feet or through steam inhalation to clear congested sinuses. Simply pour boiled water into a container and close with a lid. Then, place a towel over your head and sit with your head above the container. Lastly, remove the lid, pop no more than 3 drops into the water, and…inhale. This is seriously refreshing, and just 3–5 minutes should do the trick.
If you suffer from IBS or need aid to alleviate vomiting, nausea or diarrhea, the topical application of peppermint oil has been proven to have brilliant effects. Ginger and Cardamom also help regulate digestion and ease cramping.
Mix It Up
For a personalised experience, you can always create your own cocktail to ease the sense. Bergamot and neroli are a perfect pair if you are anxious but need to concentrate. Alternatively, if you want to engender a peaceful and soothing atmosphere, lavender and rose are a match made in heaven.
There are also some useful pre-prepared concoctions on the market.NEOM’s organic Scent to Sleep Essential Oil blend works wonders. And ECO’s Immune Support Blend with lemon, clove bud, cinnamon, and rosemary is a great all-rounder for boosting your immune system.
Better health and a better mood maybe just a quick whiff away…
