Wellbeing-Healing with aromas

Aromatherapy, also called essential oil therapy, may be defined as the art and science of utilising naturally-extracted aromatic essences from plants to balance, harmonise and promote the health of body, mind and spirit. It seeks to enhance an individual’s innate healing process.

Essential oils are ‘nature’s own pharmacy’ and ‘the life force of plants’. Each essential oil can be used either alone or in combinations to create a desired effect. From an array of oils present as a part of aromatherapy treatment, it is important to understand each oil and its effect. Here’s looking at some of the essentials ingredients:

nStar anise (Illicium verum): It has a sweet, fresh smell and can be used for cramping, digestive problems and spasmodic coughs. As the oil is toxic, it is best used under professional guidance.

nBlack Pepper (Piper nigrum): It is a hot, dry, spicy oil with a great warming effect. Good for increasing energy, black pepper is known best for its pain-relieving qualities, especially for arthritis, stiffness, poor circulation, rheumatism and muscle tone. It is also a powerful digestive stimulant.

nClary sage (Salvia sclarea): It has a tonifying, strengthening and warming effect, helping to create feelings of wellbeing. It’s excellent for treating tension and depression, particularly due to hormonal problems. It also prevents excessive sweating.

nDill (Anethum graveolens): It has a fresh and grassy fragrance to it. Today, there are many countries that grow dill for essential oil extraction. So, care must be taken when purchasing these oils, as the constituents, and even aromas vary from country to country. It works as a sedative, disinfectant, antispasmodic and also aids in digestion.

nEucalyptus (Eucalyptus radiata): Eucalyptus is a classic antiviral and expectorant. It helps bring down fevers and treat the symptoms of summer colds. It can also be used for easing muscular pains and strains as well as healing insect bites.

(The author is a certified aroma therapist and founder, Wikka)