Essential oils have long been a major part of going to the spa or for a massage. They can be diffused into the air, added to massage oil and used directly on the body or they can be personally used to treat what ails you.
If you go back centuries, basic cures for ailments were found by using different plants and extracts from plants, and what they learned has followed through to today where we use these same plants for all the good they can give us.
Take eucalyptus for example. This is a fast growing plant, and evergreen even and it is native to Australia. You may think of it first as the main diet for the koala but the leaves can be used to make an essential oil that helps to reduce coughing, colds and congestion, it is antiseptic, it is antimicrobial and it is great to counter respiratory issues. As a cream preparation, it can be used in a massage to help relieve muscle and joint pain and since it’s cooling in nature, it is wonderful for everyday aches and pains too.
Bergamot is a citrus scented oil that is used to treat stress, depression and anxiety. It too has healing properties and works well to help skin infections heal. It also stimulates the liver, the spleen and the digestive system. Added to massage oil, bergamot helps you relax as the tension leaves your body. What could be better than that?
Chamomile has long known to be a major calming agent. It’s popular in tea and also popular in the spa setting as it is an antidepressant and a mood lifter. Chamomile is also used for its antiseptic and antibiotic properties.
Tea tree oil is very widely used so it’s no surprise that it is the most popular of the essential oils and one used a lot in aromatherapy situations. It has lots of uses not the least of which is it is a natural immune system booster. It also fights infections, heals the skin of minor cuts and burns, alleviates muscle aches, the flu and even things like athlete’s foot! Talk about a multipurpose essential oil!
If you are looking for aromatherapy to alleviate hyperactivity look no further than marjoram. It also relieves anxiety, helps with digestion and helps with issues like cramps. In a massage, it can help alleviate headaches and tension and it also combats fatigue.
