Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine that uses volatile plant materials, known as essential oils, and similar aromatic compounds from plants, for the purpose of improving a person's mood, cognitive function or health.
Some of the more popular aromas are:
• Basil is used in perfumery for its clear, sweet and mildly spicy aroma. In aromatherapy, it is used for sharpening concentration, for its uplifting effect on depression, and to relieve headaches and migraines. Basil oil has many chemotypes and some are known to be emmenagogues and should be avoided during pregnancy.
• Black pepper has a sharp and spicy aroma. Common uses include stimulating the circulation and for muscular aches and pains. Skin application is useful for bruises, since it stimulates the circulation.
• Citronella oil, obtained from a relative of lemongrass, is used as an insect repellent and in perfumery.
• Clove oil is a topical analgesic, especially useful in dentistry. It is also used an antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, and antiemetic.
• Eucalyptus oil is often used in combination with peppermint to provide relief for the airways in case of cold or flu.
• Geranium oil is used as an astringent, antiseptic and diuretic.
• Jasmine is used as an aphrodisiac.
• Lavender oil is used as an antiseptic, to soothe minor cuts and burns, to calm and relax, for insomnia and to soothe headaches and migraines.
• Lemon oil is uplifting and anti-stress/anti-depressant.
• Yarrow oil is used to reduce joint inflammation and relieve cold and flu symptoms
