Aromatherapy is a holistic healing therapy that uses essential oils. Practitioners use these oils in aromatherapy massages to promote holistic health and well-being. Aromatherapy, and aromatherapy massages, have been gaining significant momentum across the world. But, are they really worth the hype?
To begin with, let’s understand what aromatherapy massages are on a deeper level
The holistic healing practice of aromatherapy uses concentrated extracts from plants to promote holistic health and 
well-being. These extracts, or essential oils, come into being through distillation or cold-press. This helps them retain a strong essence of the plants.
Aromatherapy massages make use of these essential oils by diluting them with carrier oils such as almond, olive, or coconut oils. When applied on the skin, the heat generated from rubbing causes improved absorption of these oils into the skin. The essential oils penetrate deep into the layers of the skin and have several medicinal benefits on our bodies.
Heat also releases the aroma of the oils. Inhalation of the aromas using facial steamers, diffusers, inhalers, aromatic spritzers, and other such techniques can stimulate our sense of smell. This improves the mood, and releases pent up tension and stress. However, in any case whatsoever, do not ingest these essential oils.
Where did aromatherapy come from?
Although there isn’t enough evidence to pinpoint the exact origin of aromatherapy, essential oils seem to have originated from ancient Eyptian cultures. Ancient Egyptians were one of the first people to successfully distill and extract essential oils. They used these for various purposes such as embalming the dead and injured.
However, the use of essential oils in aromatherapy finds its early roots in traditional Chinese medicine. They practised this as a means to achieve health and wellness by improving the mood and releasing stress. Later, Hippocrates researched the medicinal efficacy of the essential oils and found them beneficial for certain health conditions. Since Vedic times, Indians have also been using aromatherapy in the form of incense sticks and perfumed oils.
Why do people go for aromatherapy massages?
Aromatherapy is to heal and treat several different ailments. However, further research is required to conclusively prove the benefits of its therapeutic effects.
Skin Conditions
Essential oils are treasure troves of benefits when it comes to skincare. Several different essential oils bring with them several different health benefits.
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The good fatty acids in marula oil can deeply moisturize even the driest and flaky skin
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A few drops of tea tree oil in your skincare routine can reduce acne and acne scars visibly
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Calendula and peppermint essential oils are useful in treating severe eczema
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Rosehip essential oil contains retinoids and vitamin C that can have anti-aging effects on the skin
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Other oils such as argan and jojoba help improve the overall health of the skin
Mood Disorders
Aromatherapy massages go a long way in treating mood disorders. Essential oils such as lavender, clary sage, and citrus oils are effective aids. They help in de-stressing, and promote calmness and relaxation through the body. They also improve mental health, release stress, and keep anxiety at bay.
Essential oils such as lavender, bergamot, and cedarwood can also be used to improve the quality of sleep. People suffering from chronic insomnia can benefit greatly from these oils. Scientific research suggests better sleep cycles can prevent several health conditions and improve overall well-being.
Pain Management
When combined with the benefits of a massage, essential oils provide healing to pain and inflammation. Eucalyptus and chamomile are generally the preferred choice for pain management. Aromatherapy massages are also used to relieve muscle tension, and provide relief from migraines and headaches.
Migraine are characterised as crippling headaches that can affect our quality of life. Often, a prescription medication brings with it a hoard of side effects. Hence, using essential oils provides an effective means of treatment with relatively no side effects. Essential oils such as peppermint, eucalyptus, and rosemary oil are popularly used to soothe headaches as they alleviate tension.
If you are new to using essential oils, here are a few things to consider:
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The manner of extraction plays a big role in their efficiency. If extracted using chemical processes, they lose their effectiveness. This can often cause more harm than good.
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Essential oils are extremely potent. It is important to mix them with carrier oils before topical application.
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Citrus based essential oils can increase the photosensitivity of the skin, making it more prone to sun damage. Always use a good quality SPF in your daily regime if you use a citrus-based essential oil.
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Experts advise against the ingestion of essential oils.
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Little goes a long way. Only a few drops with your daily skincare or the diffuser is enough for great results.
So, are aromatherapy massages worth the hype?
There are several proven benefits that aromatherapy provides in overall health and wellbeing. But, to conclusively prove its therapeutic benefits, further research is required. That said, aromatherapy does not bring with it a horde of side effects. This makes it a good alternative therapy that you can complement with conventional treatment.
Using aromatherapy to improve the ambiance of your home can also create a happy and soothing space for you and your family. However, it is important to remember that not every body responds in the same way. It may occur that aromatherapy works wonders for your friend or your sibling, but it may not work for you. However, the absence of negative side effects makes it worth a try.
