Benefits of Aromatherapy on Stress, Anxiety, and Focus
Aromatherapy is a holistic therapy that uses essential oils to promote physical and emotional well-being. These oils are derived from plants and contain natural compounds that can have a variety of effects on the body and mind. One of the most notable ways that aromatherapy can affect the brain and emotions is through its ability to impact the limbic system, which is responsible for regulating emotions, memory, and behavior.
The limbic system is a complex network of structures in the brain that is closely connected to the olfactory system. This means that when essential oils are inhaled, they can directly stimulate the limbic system and affect emotional and behavioral responses. For example, lavender essential oil is often used to promote relaxation and reduce stress. This is because the scent of lavender is believed to activate the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are associated with feelings of calm and well-being. It can also be helpful to aid in sleep, falling asleep as well as getting deep sleep.
In addition to impacting the limbic system, essential oils can also have a direct impact on the body’s stress response. When the body is under stress, it releases the hormone cortisol, which can have negative effects on the body if it is present in high levels for long periods of time. Some essential oils, such as lime citrus, have been shown to reduce cortisol levels and lower the body’s overall stress response.
Another way that aromatherapy can affect the brain and emotions is through its ability to decrease inflammation in the body. Blue Tansy and thymoquinone are both great anti-inflammatory oils. Blue Tansy has been known to help the body detox the lymphatic system which will help the immune system function. Another essential oil that helps the immune system is tea tree. It is an effective natural antiseptic that is ideal for supporting a body to fight off viral, bacterial, and fungal infections.
Aromatherapy can also have a positive effect on cognitive function. Peppermint essential oil has been shown to improve memory and focus, and rosemary essential oil has been shown to enhance cognitive performance and increase mental alertness.
Furthermore, aromatherapy also can help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Some essential oils, such as ylang-ylang and jasmine, have been shown to have a positive effect on mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
It’s important to note that not all essential oils are created equal and it’s crucial to use high-quality, pure essential oils. We are now offering high-quality essential oils blends that will help aid in our patients ability to process and deal with stress along-side other emotional techniques such as neuro-emotional technique (NET).
In conclusion, Aromatherapy can have a significant impact on the brain and emotions. By impacting the limbic system, reducing stress response, improving sleep, cognitive function and mood, essential oils can promote physical and emotional well-being. However, it’s important to remember that the use of essential oils should always be done under the guidance of a qualified practitioner and with high-quality, pure essential oils.
References:
- Moss, M., Cook, J., Wesnes, K., & Duckett, P. (2003). Aromas of rosemary and lavender essential oils differentially affect cognition and mood in healthy adults. International Journal of Neuroscience, 113(1), 15-38.
- Moss, M., Cook, J., Wesnes, K., & Duckett, P. (2003). Aromas of rosemary and lavender essential oils differentially affect cognition and mood in healthy adults. International Journal of Neuroscience, 113(1), 15-38.
- Moss, M., Cook, J., Wesnes, K., & Duckett