How Does Aromatherapy Work? - An Introduction

How does aromatherapy work? This article briefly discusses that question, as well as a little on 'what is aromatherapy'.

Aromatherapy is the science of using essential oils to evoke the powerful olfactory sense (sense of smell) to create balance and healing in the human system of physical and mental wellbeing.

Research indicates that doctors who have been providing treatment to patients suffering from anosmia (loss of sense of smell) have repeatedly found that this deficiency is linked to high incidence of mental / psychiatric disorders like anxiety, depression and paranoia.

How does aromatherapy work?

On closer examination of the olfactory faculty in humans, it is interesting to note that we have the ability to distinguish more than 10,000 diverse smells.

The mechanism of smelling works in this manner - when a particular smell comes in contact with the limbic system, via the network of fine hair called cilia which form the inner lining of the nose, it reaches the part of the brain which also controls moods, memory, emotions and learning, which is also the center of the brain which processes olfactory stimuli.

Via this process, an olfactory stimulus is translated into an actual olfactory experience. Hence it becomes evident that the olfactory center is also linked to emotions, learning, alertness, memory, and moods.

Aromatherapy research regarding brain wave frequency has validated this theory, and further studies have revealed that inhaling the fragrance of lavender immediately spikes up alpha waves which signify deep relaxation. Another similar example reveals that inhalation of the jasmine fragrance stimulates beta waves on brain wave frequency mapping studies, which is indicative of alertness and a sharp state of mind.

These and other such scientific studies reveal that the constituents of essential oils are chemical compounds that have a very specific and focused impact on the combined states of mind and body.

For a better understanding of 'how does aromatherapy work', you may want to also read the other related aromatherapy articles.

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