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Ayurveda

Treatments: Aromatherapy

In Ayurveda, essential oils with various aromas and colors are used to stabilize and correct imbalances of the doshas and 7 primary energy centers (chakrasEnergy centers throughout the body which are located at various points of the energy meridians (energy channels)) within the body. Essential oils are highly concentrated, volatile essencesthe constituent (often the main constituent) of a plant or drug which possesses special qualities in concentrated form of aromatic plants and can be extracted from different parts of the plant including the flowers, leaves, seeds, nuts, bark, root, and fruits.

The purity of the aroma is important for the desired effect. Artificial aromas will not provide the same benefits. Essential oils can be purchased undiluted at maximum strength, or may be diluted in a base (also known as "carrier") oil such as sesame or almond oil.

Popular methods of exploring essential oils for Ayurvedic aromatherapy include:

Scent
The inhalation of aromas stimulates receptors which trigger electrical impulses within the body. Only a few drops are needed to achieve the required effect. These impulses serve to penetrate the memory associated with the pattern of energy that created the imbalance, and then breaks this pattern. Note: essential oils should never be taken internally.

Bathing
Applying essential oils to hot baths is another simple, effective, and relaxing method of using Ayurvedic aromatherapy. The oils are absorbed by the skin, and as the oils vaporize in the hot water, they are inhaled. The sense of relaxation experienced during bathing also works to enhance the effect of the aromas. Therapeutic bath salts may also be combined with oils.

Massage
When applied directly to the skin during massage, essential oils are not only inhaled, but are also absorbed into the skin and transported through the various systems of the body. Essential oils used for massage are sold as diluted in a base oil. Applying the pure oil directly on skin is not recommended as it can cause irritation. As essential oils vary in the length of time it takes for absorbtion into the skin, it is recommended to not bathe or shower directly after application to give the oils enough time to become fully absorbed.

Hair & Skin Care
Shampoos, conditioners, soaps, lotions, and creams containing essential oils can be used as part of a daily healthcare regimen.

Ayurvedic practitioners may also recommend other forms of Ayurvedic aromatherapy, include burning incense sticks (especially during meditation), using aromatic air diffusers, and buring scented candles.

As certain oils may irritate the skin when applied directly, dab a tiny amount on a small area of skin to test for any negative reactions. Essential oils are sold in dark colored glass bottles as they are volatile by nature and should be stored away from light, and also from heat.

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