Aroma therapy, often spelled aromatherapy, offers a variety of benefits to users, especially in the relief and reduction of a variety of side effects of cancer treatments or other conditions and ailments, states the Mayo Clinic. Aroma therapy utilizes the use of scents, plant oils, and essential oils found in plants and flowers that offer inhalation therapy that helps calm nerves, ease congestion and stimulate the brain, states AromaWeb, a site dedicated to resources and information regarding aroma therapy practices and benefits.
Stress Relief
Smells often trigger powerful reactions in the human body, states Tranquility is Yours, a website defining how stress may be relieved through aroma therapy practices. As one of the strongest senses, the sense of smell may cause us to smile in pleasure or gag in distaste. Aroma therapy uses a blend of scents, from lavender to patchouli to help relieve stress and promote a sense of calm and well being. As a stress reliever, aroma therapy may also be beneficial for those suffering anxiety or headaches as a result of stress. Aroma therapy utilizing lavender or citrus fragrances or oils is often used to help relieve anxiety in individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, as well as those who are depressed, having trouble sleeping, or experiencing memory or attention deficits caused by anxiety or stress, states Dr. M.D. Anderson of the Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas.
Pain Relief
It is believed that some plants and flowers trigger the brain to release encephalin, a natural pain killer chemical found in the brain, states Tranquility is Yours. One such oil is that of the grapefruit, while another, called Ylang-Ylang, encourages the pituitary gland to release hormones that relieve pain and produce a sense of calm. Patients suffering from fibromyalgia treated with aroma therapy receive relief from chronic pain, states Medical News.
Immunity Boosts
A variety of aroma therapy fragrances and essential oils have been used to help boost or stimulate the immune system, states Essentials of Aromatherapy, a website dedicated to providing information and resources on the benefits of aromatherapy and its benefits. Stress may hamper the body’s ability to resist bacterial, fungal and viral infections, according to Gabriella DeCastro. Essential oils therefore, may enhance the body’s ability to fight and attack antigens in cellular structures, leading to healthier bodies and immune systems. Some oils containing antibacterial properties may also help encourage lymph drainage, states Dr. Anderson.
