You may not be surprised to find out that smell is the strongest of our senses and best able to influence brain activity. Olfactory bulbs are part of the limbic system and directly connect to the areas of the brain that process emotion and learning. This is why something that we smell can trigger a memory, or transport us to a different time or place.
In a 2003 journal article published by the National Institutes of Health there was strong evidence for the benefits of aromatherapy for Alzheimer’s patients. “Three placebo controlled trials each reported a significant beneficial effect on agitation compared with placebo, with almost complete compliance and no side effects. Quality of life significantly improved with aromatherapy.”
Both Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) and lavender oil (Lavendula officinalis) were tested and are delivered by either inhalation or skin application. Most participants in the studies completed the course of treatment, which emphasizes the excellent tolerability of aromatherapy. There are several possibilities for why aromatherapy works: from subjective psychological to direct biological. Smelling nice smells makes us feel good. These studies did not extend to the use of massage thus a direct chemical effect seems likely. Essential oils contain many terpenes, which are rapidly absorbed through the lungs and cross the blood-brain barrier.
“Aromatherapy” is a somewhat misleading term, since it is not necessarily the aroma of the oils used that creates the desired effect, rather a direct effect that the oils have on the body, whether through contact with the lungs (breathing), or the skin (massage or body oils and lotions). Aging and dementias can both diminish the olfactory sense, but since a direct effect of the oils is responsible for the healing effects, a diminished sense of smell should not be a concern when considering aromatherapy.
All the following are in the products we sell:
Lavender – One of the essentials most used in studies of the effects of aromatherapy on Alzheimer’s. Lavender is said to be calming,to balance strong emotions, to act as an antidepressant to be useful in easing insomnia. Use it in the evening to promote better sleep, or any time of day to promote better mood.
Rose Oil boosts self-esteem, confidence, and mental strength while efficiently fighting depression. They can be very helpful in driving away depression and anxiety. As an antidepressant, rose oil can be given to patients with acute depression or those undergoing rehabilitation to bring positivity into their lives.
Neroli Oil , encourages a feelings of joy and happiness as it uplifts your mood. Neroli keeps you warm. It will make it easy for you to breathe and sleep in winter. It sedates all of the organ systems and metabolic functions of the body, including those in your head. It gives relief from anxiety, distress, anger, depression, inflammations, and irritations. It relaxes all of you.
Take a deep breath surrounded by these beautiful soothing aromas.
