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Depression Help (Home) > Depression Treatment > Aromatherapy Aromatherapy: Essential Oils and ProductAroma essential oilsAromatherapy is the therapeutic use of aroma-producing oils (essential oils) extracted from plants. Essential oils are extracted from a plant's flowers, leaves, stalks, bark, rind, or roots. The oils are mixed with another substance (such as oil, alcohol, or lotion) and then applied to the skin, sprayed in the air, or inhaled. The oils can also be massaged into the skin or poured into bath water. Aromatherapy originated in and has been practiced in France and Europe since the 1920s. The philosophy behind aromatherapy is that specific plant oils produce fragrances that either stimulate or relax the body. Practitioners of aromatherapy believe that the fragrances in the oils stimulate odor-sensing nerves in the nose. Impulses are then sent to the part of the brain that controls memory and emotion. Depending on the type of oil, the result on the body may be calming or stimulating. The oils are thought to interact with the body's hormones and enzymes to cause changes in blood pressure, pulse, and other body functions. The fragrance of the oil plays a role in the specific treatment. Another theory suggests that the odors of certain oils may stimulate the body's glands to produce pain-fighting substances. Aromatherapy ProductListed are aromas and the common cerebral palsy symptoms they may help to ease. Most of these aromas can help other symptoms besides those that are listed. For more on aromatherapy see our links below.
What is aromatherapy used for?Practitioners of aromatherapy have used essential oils to treat a wide range of physical and mental conditions, including burns, infections, depression, insomnia, and high blood pressure. Supporters of aromatherapy believe the oils may promote relaxation and help relieve stress. Is aromatherapy safe?Practitioners of aromatherapy are not licensed in the United States. A wide range of health professionals (such as massage therapists, nurses, and counselors) may have experience and training in aromatherapy. It is important to talk with your conventional health professional to see whether aromatherapy may be helpful and safe for your specific health condition. The oils used in aromatherapy are not meant to be swallowed. Many of the oils are potent and can be dangerous if taken internally. People with certain chronic illnesses or conditions should not use aromatherapy without first consulting a health professional. These illnesses and conditions include: Asthma, respiratory allergies, or chronic lung disease. Volatile oils may cause airway spasms. Skin allergies. Some oils may cause skin irritation, especially in the membranes of the eyes, nose, and mouth. Pregnant women should not use aromatherapy. Some oils (such as juniper, rosemary, and sage) may cause uterine contractions. Aromatherapy should be avoided in children under the age of 5, since they can be very sensitive to the oil. Oils should not be used near the face, eyes, or mouth, since irritation of the skin and membranes may occur.
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