Aromatherapy Herbs for Health

The complex world of aromatherapy herbs can seem daunting to the complete beginner but once the basics have been learned, the beginner can gradually absorb more and more information as they practice using the herbs for themselves.

Quite simply, aromatherapy is a complimentary form of medicine which can be used to help treat disease or to help prevent it. It is a wonderful aid for diseases and conditions such as colds and flu, arthritis, tension headaches and migraines and is excellent for respiratory problems. It also encourages a feeling of well-being and emotional peace as it has a soothing effect on the mind, body and spirit.

Natural oils are depicted as being able to stimulate the brain in a positive way. It can help improve mood, increase clarity and relieve stress. There are also oils which benefit being mixed to form lotions and crèmes, for massage or for being used in the bath.

There are some very comprehensive books available on the use of aromatherapy herbs and it is recommended that beginners to this therapy read up as much as they can so they can have at least a basic understanding when looking to purchase essential oils.

Aromatherapy is an addictive therapy. Once the benefits have been felt, it is understandable that most people wish to learn more and eventually some even go on to qualifying as a therapist themselves or take a more creative route and begin to make their own aromatherapy herb skin care products or bath oils.

There are so many aromatherapy herbs to learn about but these include:

• Bergamot
• Cedarwood
• Clary Sage
• Frankincense
• Geranium
• Ginger
• Juniper berry
• Lavender
• Lemon grass
• Neroli
• Peppermint
• Pine
• Rosemary
• Sage
• Thyme

There are many more of course, but all of these herbs have contra-indications when it comes to their essential oils. As with any products, there are safety factors, which need to be adhered to, for example:

• They should not be taken internally
• They should not be used directly onto skin but must always be diluted in a good carrier oil such as sweet almond oil.
• For a longer shelf life, they must be stored in a dark glass bottle and kept out of direct light-artificial or natural
• Care should be taken when given to children or those women who are pregnant

Aromatherapy herbs have been used for centuries and its success and popularity looks set to increase yet further. Used frequently, it can instill a wondrous feeling of peace and tranquility into daily living and it can help to combat our reactions to extreme stressful situations, which is a must in today’s hectic and modern society.