If you have ever burned a scented candle and felt its calming effects, or used mint scented soap or body scrub that left you feeling invigorated, then you have experienced the effects of Aromatherapy. The most common use is through essential oils extracted from herbs, flowers, even the bark of certain trees and their healing benefits are endless.
For centuries the more commonly known uses were in perfumes and food products, and now the ancient therapeutic remedies of essential oils are becoming increasingly popular. More recent studies show how certain oils have the ability to reach receptors to the brain, improving mood, sleep, anxiety, all important factors in reducing stress which is one of the top contributors to inflammation.
The wonderful thing about essential oils; each oil can benefit various health and lifestyle issues.
Since our focus has been on heart health this month, I wanted to share my favorites for reducing stress, anxiety, and possibly even blood pressure just by breathing in their beautiful scents. The favorites for their calming and stress reducing properties are citrus oils. These include Wild Orange, Lemon, Grapefruit, and some citrus blends. The calming effects are not just a state of mind, but a physiological response, so when used regularly the positive effects to combat stress can be huge.
One of the added benefits of using these oils is their many uses. Citrus oils also carry antiseptic properties making them great for cleaning countertops and bathrooms, not only reducing the amount of germs but adding a beautiful fresh scent to the room.
Wondering how to use them for their calming effects? Diffusing them into the air is the most popular. If you don’t have a diffuser, placing just a drop or two in the palm of your hand and cupping your hands together and breathing it in can have the same wonderful effects. One thing to keep in mind when purchasing essential oils is the use only a pure therapeutic grade so you are breathing in only the purest, natural oils. Then enjoy as you drift into the beautiful scents and feel the calm engulf you.
