How is Aromatherapy Done?
How is aromatherapy done? What are the materials used in aromatherapy? What should be considered when doing aromatherapy? Aromatherapy is a natural therapy method in which essential oils obtained from the leaves, flowers, roots and fruits of plants are used to support physical, mental and emotional health. Aromatherapy, which is used as a complementary method in both alternative medicine and modern medical practices, has a history of thousands of years. Aromatherapy is a natural therapy method in which essential oils obtained from plants are used in various ways to support physical, mental and emotional health. This application can be carried out with methods such as inhalation, massage, bath, compress and diffuser. The inhalation method is applied by spreading essential oils into the air with the help of a diffuser or inhaling them directly through a steam bath and provides mental relaxation. The massage method involves applying essential oils diluted with carrier oils and gently massaging them into the skin and relieves muscle pain while reducing stress. In the bath application, both physical and mental relaxation is achieved by adding a few drops of essential oil to the bath water. The compress method is performed by applying cloths prepared by adding essential oils to hot or cold water to certain areas and is especially effective in relieving local pain. During aromatherapy applications, it is important to dilute the oils in the right ratio, pay attention to the dosage and perform an allergy test on the skin. In addition, it is necessary to consult a specialist in pregnancy, breastfeeding and certain chronic diseases for safe use. Aromatherapy is a powerful supportive treatment method that helps to maintain balance between the body and mind when applied correctly.
Definition and History of Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is a method that aims to improve human health by utilizing the therapeutic properties of plant oils. First used in ancient Egyptian, Chinese and Indian civilizations, this method has become a practice supported by scientific studies today.
Historical Process:
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Ancient Egypt: Essential oils were used in mummification and religious rituals.
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Ancient Greece: Hippocrates studied the health effects of essential oils.
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Medieval Europe: The antiseptic properties of essential oils were used against epidemics such as plague.
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Modern Aromatherapy: French chemist René-Maurice Gattefossé laid the foundations of modern aromatherapy with his studies on burn treatment with lavender oil.
Basic Ingredients Used in Aromatherapy
The basis of aromatherapy is essential oils and carrier oils. Each oil has its own unique chemical structure and therapeutic properties.
a. Essential Oils
They are dense and concentrated oils obtained from plants by steam distillation or cold pressing.
Popular Essential Oils and Their Properties:
Lavender Oil: It has calming and soothing properties.
Tea Tree Oil: It has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Peppermint Oil: It gives energy and relieves headaches.
Bergamot Oil: It reduces depression and anxiety.
b. Carrier Oils
They are natural oils that allow essential oils to be diluted so that they can be used safely on the skin.
Popular Carrier Oils:
Almond Oil
Coconut Oil
Jojoba Oil
Grape Seed Oil
How is Aromatherapy Done?
There are different application methods in aromatherapy and each has its own advantages.
a. Inhalation Method
It is one of the simplest and most effective aromatherapy methods. It is applied with steam bath, diffuser or direct inhalation methods.
How is it done?
5-10 drops of essential oil are dropped into a bowl of hot water.
A towel is covered over your head and the steam is inhaled.
It is applied for 5-10 minutes.
b. Massage Method
It is the application of essential oils diluted with carrier oils to the skin by massaging.
How is it done?
2-3 drops of essential oil are added to 10 ml of carrier oil.
The oil mixture is applied to the skin by gently massaging.
c. Bath Method
It is an aromatherapy method performed by adding essential oil to bath water.
How is it done?
5-10 drops of essential oil are added to the bathtub.
A bath is taken for 15-20 minutes.
d. Compress Method
It is used in the treatment of pain and local discomfort.
How is it done?
Hot or cold water is poured into a container.
3-5 drops of essential oil are added.
A clean cloth is soaked in water and applied to the problem area.
Benefits of Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy offers a supportive solution to many physical and mental health problems.
- Stress and Anxiety Reduction: Lavender and bergamot oils reduce stress.
- Sleep Problem Relief: Soothing oils improve sleep quality.
- Strengthening the Immune System: Tea tree and eucalyptus oils support immunity.
- Improving Skin Health: Rose and lavender oils are good for skin problems.
- Relieving Muscle and Joint Pain: Rosemary and ginger oils reduce pain.
Things to Consider in Aromatherapy
Although aromatherapy is a safe method, some points should be taken into consideration:
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Correct Dilution: Essential oils should not be applied directly to the skin.
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Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Some oils may be harmful during these periods.
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Allergy Test: The oil should be tested on a small area of the skin before use.
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Use in Children: Essential oils should be used with caution in children.
Common Oil Combinations Used in Aromatherapy
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For Sleep Problems: Lavender + Chamomile + Ylang Ylang
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For Energy and Vitality: Mint + Lemon + Rosemary
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For Stress Reduction: Bergamot + Lavender + Cedarwood
Aromatherapy is a very effective method for both mental and physical health when used correctly. However, everyone's skin type, health status and needs are different. Therefore, it is important for people with chronic diseases to get support from a specialist aromatherapist.
You can support a healthy and balanced lifestyle by applying aromatherapy in line with the recommendations of Dr. Nurcivan ÜNSAL ÜZ.