While even the gentlest
scent has the might to hold a memory in the mind of the most absent-minded,
fragrances have been artful in mesmerizing even the stoic. While odors' subtle
skill can alert folks of an impending danger, aromas have the power to drive
away even the most stubborn gloom. For such are the gifts of smell and the
impulses stimulated by it bring forth positive outcomes in one's mind, body,
and soul through the right practice of Aromatherapy.
All aromas and scents
cannot heal the body and mind. Aromatherapy uses essential oils or the pure
essence of plants to promote good health in a person through the sense of
smell. For therapeutic value, it is important that synthetic chemicals or
artificial ingredients are not used to bring about the aroma. Aromatherapist Dr.
Blossom Kochhar, Founder of Aroma Magic range of products, speaks to Medindia
on the benefits of Aromatherapy.
Q. Aromatherapy
is currently used for tending to skin, hair and treating mild medical
conditions like common cold and fever. How effective is it in treating serious
medical conditions, such as heart congestion or cancer?
A. Aromatherapy is an increasingly popular method in both
managing stress and providing a supplement to those receiving traditional or
medical cancer treatments. While many consider stress an everyday part of life,
its biochemical impact on the human body makes it a cause of concern. Symptoms
include elevating blood sugar, weight gain, premature ageing, physical pain,
exhaustion and result in an impaired immune system - which impacts the body's
ability to fight off cancer. Therefore, Stress Management is an effective home
remedy for cancer.
Aromatherapy is used in an attempt to help heal wounds, energize, improve skin
tone, relax muscles, regulate hormones, reduce inflammation, aid in sleep,
fortify the immune system, kill bacterial and fungal infections, decrease upper
respiratory congestion, improve digestion, increase blood circulation, and
relieve tension headaches.
Q. How can
aromatherapy be used along with conventional therapy? Have you offered such
assistance?
A. Aromatherapy, which uses essential oils, has health
benefits to the physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness of a person. These
essential oils are also used for skin care as these can keep skin moisturized,
young looking, and healthy. The use of essential oils in aromatherapy is an
alternative way to treat illness compared to conventional treatment. It is highly beneficial for the
emotional and psychological well being of a person. The particular use of
essential oils has good therapeutic effects on the body. The use of
aromatherapy has also helped people who are recovering from surgery, mothers
recovering from labor pain and cancer patients who are still under treatment.
Aromatherapy can be used with Ayurveda and acupressure
to maximize their effectiveness.
Q. Aromatherapy
is offered in salons and spas, which gives it a cosmetic impression or
considered a luxury, how do you promote the curative aspect of the therapy?
A. Aromatherapy has gentle effects to affect the mood of a
person - it stimulates relaxation, reduces nervous tension and alleviates the feeling of fatigue
and restlessness. It is also used as part of the beauty regimen - used in
beauty spas, hair treatments and as skin moisturizers.
Q. To what extent
can aromatherapy be practiced at home? What are the side effects?
A. Aromatherapy not only allows you to create a refreshing
scent for your home but also has a number of other benefits. Using aromatherapy
rather than a plug-in or aerosol air freshener is a natural, safer and
environment-friendly option.
Bergamot essential oil has a natural deodorizing effect. It
is known for its uplifting and refreshing nature. Bergamot is able to treat
stress and depression and also has the added benefit of having antiseptic
properties. Ylang Ylang oil is known for its euphoric and aphrodisiac
qualities. It is used to create a feeling of relaxation and is also widely used
in skin care. Tea Tree oil can be used for acne.
Q. Aroma candles,
massages are all topical, what of internal medication?
A. Some oils are used as insect repellents, air fresheners,
and massage oils and for other medicinal purposes. Aromatherapy is not used for
internal medication because it might chemically react with the body
systems, fluids, etc.
Q. When is
aromatherapy not advisable?
A. Essential oils should be avoided by pregnant
ladies, epileptic patients or if someone is simply allergic to
Aromas. One should also avoid while the person is undergoing Homeopathy treatment.
Q. What should
one do to get the best out of aromatherapy?
A. Aromatherapy should be used everywhere and in every form.
Make it a part of your life. Use oils
in your bath water, diffusers, laundry, apart from skin and hair care. It can also be used as natural
room fresheners and insect
repellents.
Aromatherapy as an alternate medicine has proven
to be worth its salt because what comes from nature assures safety and
contributes to the overall well being of a person. Medindia thanks Dr. Blossom
Kochhar for sharing the benefits of Aromatherapy and wishes readers the best of
health in your mind, body and soul.
Source-Medindia