Aromatherapy Soothes the Soul

Aromatherapy has been used for thousands of years to aid in healing the body and mind. Using volatile liquid plant materials, known as essential oils, one can help improve mood as well as treat infection and help prevent disease.

One of the most commonly used plants is Lavender. Used as an antiseptic, Lavender oil has natural anti-inflammatory properties. An infusion of lavender is said to soothe and heal insect bites and/or ward off insects. Applied to the temples, lavender is reported to ease headache. Lavender is a very popular flower and fragrance to use at bedtime to aid sleep and relaxation. The lavender flower is also very popular in the fragrance and skin care industry for its sweet overtones.

Another popular plant for aromatherapy is Ylang ylang oil, derived from a small flower of the cananga tree. It is believed to relieve blood pressure, help with acne and act as an aphrodisiac. The ylang ylang is also used in the perfume industry and is valued for creating rich and deep exotic or oriental type of perfumes.

Aromatherapy may be an option for those seeking relaxation or a natural way to treat common ailments such as acne, headache or stress.