Learn the Fragrant Art of Aromatherapy

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THE SENSE BEHIND THE SCENTS

Even if you’ve never purchased a bottle of essential oil, chances are you have already incorporated aromatherapy into your life. Every time you drink a cup of fragrant tea or flavor your food with an aromatic culinary herb like basil or rosemary, the aromas have an impact on your mind. In fact, we probably are so attracted to pleasant scents because of the positive way in which they affect our emotions.

While sniffing fragrant herbs may be a weaker remedy compared to taking pharmaceutical drugs, aromatherapy can be used safely and repeatedly without worrying about side effects. Many times, aromatherapy is not potent enough to be used as the sole treatment, but it makes an excellent adjunct approach when combined with other therapies.

Scientists, as well as aromatherapists, are interested in how the power of scent increases emotional well-being. Researchers are investigating if and how the scents historically used to alter emotions actually work. They discovered that just smelling chamomile produces a relaxing effect on brain waves: Simply inhaling the aroma from a cup of chamomile tea is enough to relax a person, before he or she even drinks the tea. Peppermint and eucalyptus have been shown to stimulate the mind and make people more attentive. Researchers even think aromatherapy may help slow the progress of memory problems, such as dementia.

While we wait for research to verify the effectiveness of aromatherapy, aromatherapists like myself continue to investigate ways in which healing fragrance has been used for thousands of years. It’s easy to put aromatherapy to practical use. For example, rosemary and bay laurel stimulate the mind and particularly help memory. One simple trick is to sniff a few leaves when studying for an exam or trying to memorize anything important. Then, sniff them again when you need to recall the information.

When you’re looking for a way to stay awake, make “energy” salts by adding a few drops of peppermint to a couple tablespoons of rock salt (available in grocery stores) in a small, lidded container. Open the container and sniff as desired. I’ve included a simple chart to help you choose the best aromatherapy scents for your needs (see “Traditional Aromatherapy Oils and Their Uses” on Page 44).

If you’re having trouble sleeping or simply need to relax, place a drop or two of lavender oil on your sheets to send you off to dreamland. (Because the oil may leave spots on your sheets, mix the oil with a little water in a small spray bottle, then spritz the sheets.) Another technique is to tuck a small lavender-scented dream pillow in your pillowcase. I travel extensively, so I always carry a lavender pillow in my suitcase, as well as a lavender-rose aromatherapy spray (available at health-food stores) to ensure restful sleep.

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