What is aromatherapy?
Write the 28/09/2023 by Santarome Bio
Aromatherapy, an ancient practice with deep roots, has become a valuable ally in improving our physical and mental health. In this article, Santarome introduces you to this holistic method that uses essential oils to bring balance, relaxation and vitality to our lives. Discover its history, its benefits and some tips for integrating it into your daily life.
Aromatherapy definition
A branch of herbal medicine, aromatherapy is the art and science of using aromatic essences and essential oils extracted from plants to improve physical, mental and emotional health. These essential oils, rich in natural compounds, are extracted from flowers, leaves, roots, bark and seeds of plants. The term “aromatherapy” comes from the combination of the Latin “aroma” (aroma/smell) and the Greek “therapia” (care), because it involves treating the body and mind with natural aromas.
How did aromatherapy develop?
Aromatherapy has its origins more than 3,500 years BC, when the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans were already using essential oils for medicinal, religious and cosmetic purposes.
But the modernization of this practice really accelerated in the 20th century thanks to the work of the French chemist René-Maurice Gattefossé, who healed his hand burns, following a laboratory accident, using lavender essential oil . His research into the healing properties of lavender laid the foundation for contemporary aromatherapy.
The benefits of aromatherapy
The benefits of aromatherapy are numerous and can vary from one essential oil to another. Here are a few :
Reduction of stress and anxiety : essential oils such as lavender, chamomile and bergamot are real allies in soothing the nervous system. Their sweet scent promotes relaxation and helps reduce daily stress.
Improved sleep : Certain essential oils, such as lavender, cedarwood and marjoram, promote relaxation, more peaceful nights and restful sleep.
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Pain relief : Boasting anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antiseptic properties, oils such as eucalyptus, peppermint and ginger are effective in relieving muscle and joint pain.
Improved digestion : Peppermint, ginger, and cardamom can help soothe digestive issues.
Strengthens the immune system : Tea tree oil and oregano have antimicrobial properties that can help boost immunity.
Essential oils
Essential oils are the heart of aromatherapy. They are extracted from plants by distillation and contain a wide variety of natural chemical compounds, including terpenes, ketones, alcohols, and esters, which give them their therapeutic properties.
Distillation and composition
Essential oils are generally obtained by steam distillation or cold pressing. During steam distillation, steam passes through the plant parts, which creates volatile compounds. The vapor is then cooled and condensed, forming a mixture of essential oil and water, which is then separated.
Cold pressing is primarily used to extract essential oils from citrus fruits, such as lemons and oranges. The fruit zest is mechanically pressed, thus releasing the precious essential oils.
The distillation process preserves the plant's active compounds, creating powerful oils. These methods ensure that essential oils remain pure and unadulterated.
The main essential oils and their properties
Each essential oil has unique properties, but almost all are rich in antimicrobial substances, which contribute to the plant's natural defenses. Among the most effective, we find:
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Lavender : soothing, anti-stress, promotes sleep.
Peppermint : refreshing, relieves headaches and pain.
Lemon : purifying, stimulating, improves mood.
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Eucalyptus : decongestant, relieves respiratory congestion.
Tea tree : antimicrobial, antifungal, strengthens immunity.
How to use essential oils in aromatherapy?
Whether you're looking to create a calming atmosphere, relieve bodily aches or explore internal benefits, here's how you can incorporate essential oils into your daily life:
Diffusion in the air : add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the water in the diffuser, then let the magic happen. It can help you feel more relaxed, help you focus, or simply help purify the air around you.
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Application to the skin ( roll on ): simply dilute a few drops of essential oil in an oily carrier (for example, coconut oil), then apply the mixture directly to the skin. This method is ideal for targeting muscle or joint pain, relieving headaches or for a massage.
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Oral use : certain oils are intended for internal consumption, but must be diluted on a carrier, a vegetable oil or a neutral tablet. You can find it in certain Santarome Bio products, notably in Somnifor sleep tablets , Respi'Rub anti-cold syrup and Sublime Cheveux gummies .
Daily aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is much more than just an occasional practice. It can become an integral part of everyday life by cultivating overall well-being and revealing your natural beauty.
Well-being and emotional balance
Essential oils have the ability to stimulate positive sensory responses and calm the mind. Whether it's through an aromatic mist in your office to promote concentration, a relaxing bath after a long day, or simply placing a few drops on a tissue to breathe when stress assails you, they can be a support valuable for managing the emotional ups and downs of daily life.
Skincare and natural beauty
Aromatherapy also fits into your skincare routine to improve the clarity, texture and radiance of the complexion. You can add essential oils to cleansers, moisturizers, masks or carrier oils to target skin concerns (acne, aging skin, scars, irritation, etc.). By using natural, homemade beauty products, you also reduce exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.
