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Aromatherapy can be both an exploration of creativity and a practice of technical knowledge. The creativity comes from understanding the characteristics of essential oils and imagining how different scents can combine to create new and exciting aromas. The scientific aspect comes from learning the chemical components of the essential oils and their physical and mental effects on the body. Because the aromatic properties of pure, natural essential oils are a powerful, far-reaching catalyst for change, aromatherapy affects us on every level - physically, mentally and spiritually.

The Mind

The aromas of essential oils stimulate the part of the brain that affects emotion. The chemical shape of an essential oil molecule is like a key that opens a corresponding lock-like structure in the olfactory nerve receptors in our nostrils. The impression of the aroma is then sent directly to the limbic system, where emotions are felt and memories are stored. The limbic system releases chemicals that affect the central nervous system.

The inhalation of essential oils helps us reach a pleasurable emotional balance, which can have a therapeutic effect on physical problems, especially those related to stress. Inhalation can be done directly or through diffusion.

Direct inhalation is a great method to use during stressful events when you need immediate relief. Apply 2 to 5 drops of chamomile oil onto a handkerchief, hold it under your nose and breath normally. The beneficial effects of the oil can help defuse a tense situation.

Because of their volatile nature, essential oils will also easily diffuse into your immediate surroundings. An aromatherapy lamp - a ceramic container with a small basin on top - is an especially effective method of diffusion. The basin holds a mixture of water and essential oil, which is warmed from beneath by a candle or light bulb.

Diffusion is a great way to calm anxious patients in a doctor's waiting room, with the relaxing effects of oils like chamomile, rose or sandalwood. It can also provide an invigorating aroma in the office to battle after-lunch grogginess with energizing, uplifting oils like peppermint, lemon, basil or bergamot.

The Body

Essential oils not only have a special effect on the mind and the central nervous system, they also react with the body. Essential oils are quickly absorbed through the skin, traveling around individual cells and into hair follicles. There the oils enter the sebaceous glands and mingle with the skin's natural emollients. The oils can leave your skin feeling cleansed, refreshed and toned.

Essential oils also add an aesthetic dimension to the healing touch of massage therapy, compresses, facial steams and baths. But because of their incredibly concentrated nature, essential oils should always be diluted before application, either in a carrier vegetable oil, bath water or body care product. Natural vegetable oils, such as sweet almond and jojoba, are excellent dilutents for essential oils. Mix them so the essential oil makes up 2 to 3% of the blend. Or thoroughly mix a few drops of essential oil in a warm bath to help soak away the debilitating effects of a stressful day.

Certain oils are especially well-suited for the largest organ of our body - our skin. The skin is a complex, sensitive organ that helps in respiration, heat regulation and sensation, all of which are necessary for well-being. It is our mantle of health - reflecting our inner state of well-being, while protecting us from a daily barrage of harmful chemicals and pollutants.

Lavender is perhaps the ultimate skin oil. It combats oily skin by removing excess oil, which helps prevent clogged pores. It can also help soothe and replenish the dry skin caused by a lack of sebum, the protective emollient substance normally produced by the skin.

The Spirit

The use of scent and essential oils has always been associated with ritual. A diffused aroma wafts away like a wish or a prayer. The oil itself can be thought of as the quintessential spirit of the plant - a living fragrance held captive in a bottle.

Frankincense oil has been used during meditation and prayer for centuries. Its rich, balsamic aroma deeply penetrates the lungs, inspiring slow, regular breathing. Try diffusing frankincense to help carry you along your next inner or outer spiritual journey.

Essential oils are remarkable substances, positively effecting every level of our being. Aromatherapy is the creative and scientific use of these oils to inspire beneficial changes in our lives on aesthetic, therapeutic and mystical levels.

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