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Aromatherapy |
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The limbic system is connected to areas of the brain linked to memory, breathing, and blood circulation, as well as the endocrine glands which regulate hormone levels in the body. The properties of the oil, the fragrance and its effects, determine stimulation of these systems. When used in massage, essential oils are not only inhaled, but absorbed through the skin as well. They penetrate the tissues and find their way into the bloodstream where they are transported to the organs and systems of the body. Essential oils have differing rates of absorption, generally between 20 minutes and 2 hours, so it is probably best not to bathe or shower directly following a massage to ensure maximum effectiveness. There are many ways to enjoy the benefits of essential oils, you can use just one oil or blend several oils together to synergistically increase the benefits.Massage is recognized as the most effective way of using essential oils, you can make a massage oil by diluting essential oils into a carrier oil such as jojoba, grapeseed, or sweet almond oil. Bathing is an easy but also effective way of using essential oils, just add 5 - 8 drops of oil into your warm bath water and stir with your hand to disperse the oils. Relax in the bath for at least 15 minutes to allow the oils to work. Or add make into Bath Salts to enjoy the aromatherapy benefits of essential oils and the softening effects of the salts. Vaporization of the essential oils can help freshen a room or be used to create a special mood. The oils can be used in an oil burner, on a light bulb ring, or in a room spray. Inhalation of the essential oils is a wonderful way to help relieve colds and congestion. add about 3 drops of the recommended essential oils to a bowl of steaming water, put a towel over your head and the bowl then inhale the vapor. (Take great care not to spill the hot water onto yourself). Hot and Cold Compresses are an effective way of using the essential oils to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. To make a hot compress you can fill a bowl with hot water, then add 5 to 6 drops of essential oil. Dip either a folded piece of cloth (cotton), a flannel or cotton wool into the bowl, squeeze out the excess water and place the cloth on the affected area until it has cooled down. Hot compresses are useful for rheumatism, arthritis and backache, abscesses, toothache and earache. Cold compresses are made in a similar way, using ice cold water instead of hot, good for using on headaches, sprains and strains. Precautions:
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