Aromatherapy is a method of enhancing mental & physical well-being through the use of pure essential oils. Essential oils - which are aromatic, highly concentrated distilled essences of plants - can be used in many ways. In some cases, essential oils can be used with or in place of prescription or over-the-counter drugs. Many people use essential oils as a means of making themselves feel better.

With aromatherapy, one's experience of the world is enriched through the sense of smell. Our emotional, mental & physical reactions to our surrounding are controlled significantly by our sense of smell. Aside from the physical, essential oils also affect the emotional and metal aspects of our lives. Various emotions can be stimulated through the release of certain brain chemicals as a result of the inhalation of certain essential oils. Lavender for example, has the ability to produce a calming affect on the body by evoking and increasing the release of serotonin in the brain. When applied topically to the skin, some essential oils have a healing affect as well.

The key to using essential oils is to make sure that they are 100 percent pure botanical extracts and not chemical reproductions of different fragrances. Chemical reproductions do not produce the same biochemical response as pure essential oils that are natural and therefore will not be effective in aromatherapy.

Pure essential oils are extracted directly from various parts of different plants through various methods including expression, carbon dioxide extraction, distillation, solvent extraction, and enfleurage. An important tip to remember prior to shopping for essential oils are to make sure the labels reads “pure essential oil.”

Essential oils are easy to use. Simply dilute a small amount of the oil in water or another oil and then apply or inhale it. There are even specialized accessories available to use for inhalation therapy.

Listed below are my top picks for essential oils and how they are used.

Chamomile - A powerful antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory that works very well for headaches and is good in bath, message oil and hair rinse.

Eucalyptus - Can be used as an anti-septic, disinfectant, antiviral, expectorant and chest rub. Reduces fever and can be used as an ointment for aches and pains in the muscles.

Grapefruit - Reduces appetite and is useful in treating obesity. Also relieves depression, reduces water retention, balances moods and cleanses and removes toxins from the skin.

Jasmine - An antidepressant, sedative and antiseptic. Works well for those with impotence, anxiety and is beneficial for skin and scalp.

Lavender - Useful as an antiseptic and for enhancing immune function. Can ease depression and reduce inflammation. Has a claming effect on the body and is good for eczema, acne, burns, stress and sleep disorders as well.

Lemon - Helps the body to fight infections and is used as an astringent.

Peppermint - Provides relief of headaches, fatigue, congestion, muscle soreness, indigestion, and stomach problems..

Tea Tree - A potent anti-infective, antiseptic, expectorant, fungicide and anti-inflammatory.

Thyme - Has a calming effect on the body and is a good expectorant, antiseptic and antispasmodic.

* Important notes: It is recommended that you seek the advice of a qualified healthcare practitioner prior to using aromatherapy or any alternative therapies. Any recommended doses are for those over age 18. Always check herb and vitamin use with your child’s health care practitioner prior to administering them.