Our sense of smell is intricately linked to our memories and subconscious. It is no wonder that the smells we experience as children leave a deep impression on us, eliciting feelings of nostalgia and comfort. The smell of the first drops of rain on the ground, the scent of books, the scent of incense and flowers all have different effects on our emotions and moods. Essential oils are an integral part of Ayurveda and help balance the doshas. In a modern world where stress and never-ending to-do lists dominate our lives, scents play a vital role in improving our physical and mental health. Aromatherapy, or the use of aromas and scents to treat illnesses, is rapidly gaining popularity due to its many benefits, from improved sleep quality to pain relief.
“Aromatherapy has a remarkable effect in relieving pain and recovering from illnesses. Essential oils extracted from various plants have been used for centuries to improve wellbeing and address various health concerns,” says Himalayan Siddha Akshar, founder of Akshar Yoga Kendraa.
“In a time when mental health is a concern, it is now imperative that we prioritise our mental wellbeing. Fragrance plays a vital role in maintaining both physical and mental wellbeing. Fragrance helps create deep experiences that connect individuals with memories and emotions, inducing a sense of well-being. From the earthy scent of rain-soaked earth to the enchanting scent of a new book, fragrance has the unique power to transport us to a particular moment in time, evoking joy and nostalgia,” said Kiran Ranga, Managing Director and Master Perfume Creator, Ripple Fragrances.
“Gaining popularity in recent times, aromatherapy, as the name suggests, involves using different scents to soothe yourself. Aromatherapy involves using essential oils and scents through your sense of smell to affect mood, relaxation, mental clarity and enhance overall wellbeing. Aromatherapy diffusers are a simple and effective way of diffusing the healing properties of essential oils, which can help relieve pain and illness. Essential oils, with natural antibacterial and antiviral properties, reduce airborne pathogens and certain scents are thought to relieve pain and contribute to overall wellbeing,” adds Ranga.
Himalayan Siddha Akshar talks about the various benefits of aromatherapy.
1. Pain relief
One of the main benefits of aromatherapy is its potential to relieve pain. Certain essential oils, such as lavender and peppermint, have analgesic properties that can soothe discomfort. When used in massages or diffused in the air, these oils can induce a sense of relaxation and help relieve pain.
2. Improve your sleep quality
Additionally, aromatherapy has also been linked to improved quality sleep, which is essential to the body’s recovery process. Essential oils such as chamomile and bergamot are known for their calming effects and promote a restful sleep environment. Quality sleep is paramount to the body’s ability to heal and regenerate, making aromatherapy a valuable tool in the process of recovering from illness.
3. Mental health and wellness
Aromatherapy not only has a positive impact on physical health, it has also been shown to have a positive impact on mental health. Essential oils such as citrus scents uplift mood and reduce stress and anxiety. Stress management is essential when recovering from illness, as excessive stress can interfere with the body’s healing mechanisms. Aromatherapy offers a natural, holistic approach that addresses both the physical and mental aspects of recovery.
4. Therapeutic Efficacy
Additionally, aromatherapy can complement traditional medicine. While it does not replace medical care, incorporating aromatherapy into a holistic health plan can enhance the overall healing experience. Patients recovering from surgery or managing chronic illnesses may find comfort in the supporting role of aromatherapy.
5. Customize to your personal tastes
It’s important to note that everyone responds differently to aromatherapy – what works for one person may not have the same effect on another, so we encourage you to experiment with different essential oils and their uses to find what works best for your body and preferences.
6. Usage Tips
When it comes to pain relief, aromatherapy is particularly effective for conditions like headaches and muscle aches. Peppermint oil, for example, has a cooling effect and is often used to relieve tension headaches. Rubbing diluted peppermint oil on the temples or inhaling its scent can help relieve headache symptoms.
Kiran Ranga shares popular essential oils used in aromatherapy to relieve stress and pain.
1. Lavender diffuser oil
Lavender diffuser oil is a popular choice for creating a calm and tranquil atmosphere in the home. The calming, soothing scent of lavender essential oil not only reduces stress, but also promotes relaxation and an overall sense of well-being. Additionally, this oil is often chosen to improve the quality of sleep, making it a favorite choice for bedrooms and other relaxation spaces.
Lavender essential oil is known for its sedative properties as well as its ability to ease minor discomfort and pain. When diffused, it helps to create a harmonious environment that helps to relieve tension and headaches. The captivating scent of lavender also plays a role in uplifting the mood and elevating the spirit. Moreover, lavender essential oil is known for its ability to reduce anxiety. Inhaling the calming aroma has a positive effect on the nervous system, relieving nervous tension and enhancing a sense of serenity.
2. Lemongrass diffuser oil
Lemongrass oil is well known for its refreshing and uplifting properties and is often used in aromatherapy. Its bright citrus scent is often said to lift the mood, promote clarity and have an invigorating effect.
This essential oil is often used to relieve feelings of stress and anxiety, providing a natural way to relax and unwind. The refreshing lemon scent can create a positive, energizing atmosphere in your space, making it perfect to diffuse during times of mental fatigue or tension.
In addition to its mood-boosting effects, lemongrass oil is thought to have antibacterial and antifungal properties. When diffused, it may help fight off airborne microbes, contributing to a cleaner, fresher environment.
Lemongrass essential oil can also be mixed with a carrier oil and applied topically. When properly diluted, it can be massaged into the skin for a relaxing effect and to soothe aches and pains in muscles. Lemongrass oil’s versatility makes it great for emotional wellbeing, too.
“For muscle pain or discomfort, essential oils such as eucalyptus or rosemary can be incorporated into massage oils and bath blends. These oils have anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve muscle tension and promote a sense of relaxation. Athletes and those involved in physical activities can consider aromatherapy as part of their recovery routine. Aromatherapy offers a multi-faceted approach to pain relief and recovery from illness. From their potential to ease physical discomfort to their positive impact on mental wellbeing, essential oils have proven their value in enhancing overall wellbeing. As with any wellness regimen, it is essential to consult a medical professional, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Incorporating aromatherapy into your overall health and recovery plan can be a holistic and enjoyable way to support the body’s natural healing process,” adds Akshar.
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