Aromatherapy treats the body and mind using the essential oils of flowers, herbs, and plants. Flowers and plants delight the eye with their beauty, the nose with their scent, and the palate with their flavor. Can treatments so pleasant really work? Many people think they do. Most of them really like plants, so it's very agreeable to think that they have a place in maintaining and restoring health.
The origins of aromatherapy dates back about 5,000 years ago. The ancient Egyptians used flowers, herbs, and other plants for their aromatic effects in embalming, medicine, religious celebrations, and cosmetics. Today aromatherapy is among the fastest-growing of the natural healing arts. In Britain, an aromatherapist's client is called a patient, and he or she receives a blood test and a physical examination before treatment with essential oils begins. Germany and France go one step further. There, holistic spa visits, which may include aromatherapy treatments are covered by health insurance.
Technically, aromatherapy involves the use of inhaled or externally applied essential oils for therapeutic or mood-altering purposes. Researchers have proved that inhaled or topically applied essential oils do enter the body, either through the respiratory system or the bloodstream. Many essential oils have cleansing properties. Arnica, for example, is antibacterial agent. Lavender has antiseptic properties. Chamomile's excellent cleansing and conditioning properties make it a desirable hair-care ingredient. Eucalyptus oil is a deodorant, an antiseptic, and an antibacterial agent. You can also see these added as parts or ingredients in cosmetics, shampoos, perfumes, and soaps made by companies.
Published by Teresita C. Tayanes on April 14, 2007 03:05 AM
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