Making Scents of Aromatherapy

The practice of using essential oils dates back to Egyptian times (it’s been said Cleopatra was a fan). Today, aromatherapy is used to promote well-being and stimulate the senses in a wide range of spa treatments, varying from massage to facials to hydrotherapy. Fragrant essential extracts sourced from plants, flowers and herbs are mainly applied for their therapeutic benefits; studies show aromatherapy not only improves your mood, but may reduce stress levels and treat insomnia. So whether you want to rejuvenate or simply smell delicious, we say aromatherapy just makes sense!

Know Before You Go.    Step into a spa and one of the first things you’ll notice is a signature scent wafting in the air—it’s there to entice your senses straight off the bat and sets the tone for a relaxed experience. Not only is aromatherapy used to set the mood in a spa, it’s celebrated for healing purposes as well. Different natural oils are used for different therapeutic benefits—for example, lavender endorses calm—so speak with your therapist about what you’d like to accomplish during your treatment.  Since ancient times, aromatherapy has been known for its therapeutic powers, celebrated as a natural aid that’s integrated into spa treatments and beauty products.

Reap the Benefits.  Essential oils are extracted from different parts of plants — flowers, twigs, leaves, stalks, resins, roots, etc. — depending on the oil. When choosing products for aromatherapy purposes, it’s important that they are created with essential oils, and that the oils are pure, natural, and non-synthetic.

Eucalyptus:  good for fighting a cold
Lavender:  good for antibacterial purposes
Sandalwood:  good for calming the senses

Know How It Works. Essential oils work in one of two ways: through absorption or inhalation, although there are also some benefits associated with aerial diffusion (room fragrance) as well. Absorption is best used to alleviate muscle or joint pains, when the essential oil is directly applied to the skin. Absorption aids are found in skin-care products, bath remedies, and spa treatments.  Inhalation is appropriate for alleviating annoyances such as sinus congestion (it’s not recommended for those with asthma, however.) It’s found in steams, oils, and vapors.