Aromatherapy The power of scent and smell

Overview Ancient approach to healing using fragrances to balance body functions Influences physical, psychological, and spiritual levels Sense of smell is one strongest senses We smell the vapors in the air Vaporized molecules absorbed into bloodstream

History of Aromatherapy Burning of gums and resins for incense 60,000 year old skeleton found with the pollen of eight different flowers and was buried with medicinal plants still used today Early 7000 BC - Egyptians imported large quantities of myrrh 3,000 BC - Chinese used aromatic herbs with massage and acupuncture

History continued 2,700 BC - while building the Great Pyramid in Egypt fragrant herbs, oils and perfumes were used to heal workers Pots filled with frankincense were put in King Tutankhamen’s tomb and a faint smell remained 3,000 years later Native Americans burned incense and used oils for massage - flowers like vanilla were commonly used

Modern Day Aromatherapy In French chemist Rene- Maurice Gattenfosse burned his hand/arm from an explosion in his family’s perfume factory. He plunged it into a container of lavender and felt the pain ease immediately. The burn healed fast with no scar. He then published “Aromatherapie”

Aromatherapy in the U.S. Robert Tissenand wrote a book in 1977 called “The Art of Aromatherapy” It’s success increased the American interest in aromatherapy. Aromatherapy has continued to increase in popularity and use.

The Effects of Scents Three stages involved in the comprehesion of scents These three stages take less than one second to complete. 1. Reception Stage 2. Transmission Stage 3. Perception Stage

Reception Stage We encounter the smell, the vapor, the scent. The fragrance binds to olfactory receptor sites.

Transmission Stage The scent is sent to the base of the brain The message is then transmitted to the limbic system

Perception Stage The hypothalamus contacts the pituitary gland The hypothalamus determines if the scent is pleasant or not, if it relaxes you, makes you sleepy, increases energy, etc.

Reasons to Use Aromatherapy Relieve headache Relieve muscle tension Reduce aches and pains Treat/eliminate depression Reduce stress Stimulate immune system Soften dry skin Lower anxiety Improve mood Help heal minor wounds

Ways Aromatherapy Can Be Used Burn as incense Used in candles Oils Hot bath/hot compress Cosmetics Lotion Soaps Shampoo Massage oil Bath salts Perfume Lightbulb diffusers Room spray or spritzers Teas

Cautions When Using Aromatherapy Dilute oils before using on skin Keep all essential oils away from eyes and mouth Keep essential oils away from children Be cautious if pregnant - consult doctor before using Store away from heat and light to preserve them Sun sensitivity when using citrus oils Be aware of allergies you may have

Chamomile Anti-inflammatory, relaxant, antidepressant Relaxation Reduce headache pain Helps digestive system

Eucalyptus Stimulant Decongestant Antiviral Antibacterial Soothes cold symptoms Relieve muscle tension/aches

Ginger Used to relieve cough Used to get rid of toxins in the body

Lavender Sweet fresh scent One the most effective in reducing stress and balancing emotions Easier to fall asleep Overall first aid oil Boost immune system

Peppermint Energizes, brightens mood, reduces pain Helps digestive system Clears sinuses Decongestant Stimulant

Rosemary Used to energize Relaxes tense muscles Brightens mood Improve mental clarity Eases aches and pains Stimulates and improves circulatory system

Recipe for Headache Balm 30 g unperfumed base cream 2 drops peppermint 5 drops lavender 5 drops eucalyptus Mix together and rub a small amount into the temples and back of the neck