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Aromatherapy is a way to relieve stress or, conversely, restore vigor to the body and spirit. How else do essential oils affect us and what effect can they achieve?
Essential oils are volatile, fragrant molecules dissolved in a base oil. They are very active and easily penetrate into the bloodstream through the skin and respiratory tract, affecting the entire body. “With the help of essential oils, you can alleviate various conditions – from panic attacks to postpartum depression,” says Rani Al-Anati, an aromatherapist at the Cosmetology Center on Smolenka. “As a rule, this requires a number of aromatherapy procedures: baths, inhalations and, of course, massage.” Some tasks are even easier to solve. For example, to cheer up and get in a good mood, the expert recommends taking three to five deep breaths of bergamot, orange or grapefruit essential oil. And essences of jasmine, chamomile and rosewood will help relieve emotional stress.
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- Natural essential oils – medicines created by nature
In most cases, essential oils are selected by a specialist. “Their incorrect use can have unpleasant consequences,” says aromatherapist Zarema Dzhatdoeva. For example, if more than two drops of relaxing ylang-ylang are applied to the skin, it can cause nausea. Oregano sometimes provokes an attack of causeless aggression. And clary sage can cause temporary distraction.
Caution does not hurt when we choose cosmetics. It will be more efficient and safer to purchase a ready-made ethereal “cocktail”. Fortunately, brands such as Aromatherapy Associates, Clarins, Caudalie, Darphin, Decléor, L’Occitane offer a lot of options.
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- Phyto- and aromatherapy against insomnia
Today, to create an aromatherapeutic effect, manufacturers have learned to use synthetic fragrances. “They act on the nervous system through receptors located in the nose,” says Nivea fragrance development expert Martin Kauffeldt. “But unlike essential oils, they don’t have a complex effect.” For example, Moments of Relaxation Bath Foam, Nivea, does not contain lavender oil, and Oil & Tonic Bi-Phase Body Butter, Biotherm, does not contain orange essence. Despite this, the aroma of the first means relaxes, and the second – invigorates. A nice addition to the main effect – beautiful skin.