Breath deeply. Do you smell it? No? That’s strange. I just farted. Source: medicalnewstoday
- Asthma patients will find their friend in the Frankincense
- Peppermint helps with your digestion
- Lemon oil for the sad folks
Step into a tranquil temple, where the mesmerizing aroma of incense fills the air, accompanied by the mystical chants and gentle ringing of bells. Aromatherapy, with its enchanting scents, has the remarkable ability to transport our minds to a state of peace. It was in this magical ambiance that I discovered my affinity for the captivating world of aromatherapy.
When you hear the word “aromatherapy,” do you envision forcefully sniffing flowers? While not entirely inaccurate, this practice involves the application of skin-friendly oils, releasing their captivating scents into the air for inhalation. You can also use charming oil diffusers to infuse the atmosphere with the essence of your choice.
Rest assured, we’re talking about perfectly legal substances here, so no need to worry about any runny noses. This article delves deep into the art of smelling and explores the incredible benefits of aromatherapy. Get ready to embark on a fragrant journey like no other.
1/ Frankincense Oil
The Frankincense lulls the mind with its combination of earthy, woody and balsamic scents. Source: goodhousekeeping
Frankincense oil isn’t called the King of Oils for nothing, its application dates back to the past thousands of years, being used for meditation and religious purposes. But enough of the history lesson, we are here for the benefits.
Pay attention, asthma patients, because research has shown that compounds found in Frankincense prevent the production of leukotrienes, which cause bronchial muscles to constrict.
A study also showed that 70% of participants experienced improvements in their symptoms, such as wheezing and shortness of breath. This results from receiving 300 milligrams of Frankincense daily for a month and a half. Alright, asthma patients, you guys can now start making a beeline to the aromatherapy shop.
2/ Peppermint Oil
Some plants are just Mint to be awesome. Source: Women’s Health
The scent of peppermint is unforgettable, being strikingly minty and refreshing, attributed to the high quantity of menthol inherent within it. In traditional herbalism, it is believed to promote sweating, reduce flatulence, relieve pain and prevent itching.
However, we are interested in the scientifically proven benefits, so here it is. According to a 2012 randomised clinical trial, inhaling peppermint oil vapour through a nebulizer reduces the frequency, duration, and severity of nausea and vomiting in people recovering from heart surgery.
This is backed by research done by the National Centre for Complementary and Integrative Health, which states that peppermint helps with digestion, particularly IBS or Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Be careful though, peppermint oil at high doses is toxic, so dilution is necessary. On another note, I have never heard of anyone overdosing on peppermint oil. This should be interesting.
3/ Lemon Oil
Lemonades or lemon oil? What a tough question. Source: india.com
And I thought lemons are confined to the kitchen! I never knew their oil had a place on my skin. Yes, it does make me smell delicious, but I really shouldn’t write this in the article. We need to focus.
Anyway, for those of you who are unaware, lemon oil is extracted from the peel of fresh lemons, either through steam extraction or cold pressing. I particularly enjoy performing the latter.
If the process of extracting the oil doesn’t relieve you of stress, then note that smelling lemon essential oil has a powerful calming effect. This is not folklore, already proven through a 2006 study on mice.
Stress test experiments showed that lemon oil acts as a great mood-improving agent, more so than lavender and rose. Another study conducted in 2016 found that lemon oil reduced anxiety among people after undergoing orthopaedic surgery. The culmination of all these studies decisively points towards lemon oil to alleviate anxiety and depression. And I thought only sweet stuff could turn our frowns upside down.
The good, the bad, the WEIRD
I can smell all day! Source: myamericannurse
All these materials we discussed above are so mainstream. Have you ever considered other forms of substance for aromatherapy…the unconventional substances? No, I don’t mean drugs! Nothing illegal here.
I get my inspiration to write my weird, crazy articles by sniffing Tabasco sauce, Worcestershire sauce and vinegar. I revolve around these three substances depending on their availability. Too much information? I hope not.
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