How Does Aromatherapy Work?

Aromatherapy oils enter our mind and body through two principal routes – the olfactory system and the skin. When inhaled they travel through our nervous system and when applied externally they pass through the cappillaries and cell tissues. Lets understand how it works.

Inhalation – When Aromatherapy oils are inhaled the oil particles reach the roof of the nose where the recptor cell are situated. From each receptor cell protrudes thin hair which register and transmit information about the aromas, via the olfactory bulb to the centre of the brain. Once the brain gets the signal it releases neurochemicals, which may be relaxing, stimulating or sedative. Hence some aromatherapy treatments only require sniffing of the oil.

External application – When these oils are massaged on the skin, the tiny molecules of the oil penetrate the pores and hair follicles. They reach the fine blood carrying capillaries and once they enter the bloodstream, they are transported round the body. Even mucous membranes are receptive to essential oils. Hence when the oil is massaged on the skin or scalp they penetrate deep inside and heal.

Aromatherapy preparations are beneficial for conditions like dry hair, dandruff, hair fall etc.If you have dry, lacklustre hair mix a 2 drops each of Rosemary oil, Geranium oil and Lavender oil in 4-5 teaspoons of Jojoba oil. Add few drops of these oils to your shampoo for a soft and smooth effect. For oily hair mix 2 drops each of Lemon oil, Orange oil, Rosemary oil in 4- 5 teaspoons of Jojoba oil.

Massage these oils atleast twice in a week and leave it overnight, you can also wrap a hot towel which will facilitate the oil to penetrate further. Aromatherapy has the ability to revive a tired mind and stimulates the memory. The area of the brain which is associated with smell is also that in which the memory is stored.