Increases in bacterial resistance and concerns about flu vaccines are prompting people to look to alternative therapies to stay healthy. Aromatherapy is one such field that is enjoying a surge in popularity. Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils extracted from plant matter to improve both physical and emotional well-being. Herbal remedies and plant oils have been used medicinally since ancient times, but modern science is verifying that these remedies are not just old wives tales. Furthermore, science is showing us that many of these oils have anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties, even against resistant strains of bacteria such as MRSA.
Anecdotally, it has been suspected that essential oils have anti-microbial properties for hundreds of years. One popular tale is that grave robbers during the bubonic plague managed to avoid illness themselves by using a concoction thought to include cinnamon, clove, eucalyptus, lemon, and rosemary oils. Those working in the perfume industry blending oils were also known to rarely get ill. In the past century, scientists have focused their studies of essential oils on antimicrobial properties. For example, a 2009 study showed that a blend of lemongrass and geranium oils diffused in an office environment not only reduced airborne levels of bacteria, but also reduced surface pathogens.
Often, aromatherapy treatment is applied by massage, but diffusion is an excellent way to reap the anti-microbial benefits of aromatherapy. There are many diffusers on the market and each has their place. The nebulizing diffuser is generally regarded as best for therapeutic purposes. These models atomize pure plant oils and propel them into the air in a fine mist that may remain suspended in the air for up to 2-3 hours. Another popular model is the ultrasonic diffuser, which dilutes the oils in water and then vaporizes the mist into the air. Ultrasonic diffusers are good for dry climates as they can add some moisture to the air. Several other diffusers work through simple evaporation of volatile essential oils and offer a milder scent. The diffuser you use will depend on the size of the room, your main purpose (therapy or scent), and your budget.
Before using essential oils or diffusers, you should educate yourself as to which oils are safe to use. Not all oils are safe, some are unsafe for children, and some should only be used for short periods of time. There are several excellent resources available at local libraries and on the internet for further study. Used wisely, essential oils can brighten your mood, help your body stave off disease, and make your home smell wonderful in the process
Anecdotally, it has been suspected that essential oils have anti-microbial properties for hundreds of years. One popular tale is that grave robbers during the bubonic plague managed to avoid illness themselves by using a concoction thought to include cinnamon, clove, eucalyptus, lemon, and rosemary oils. Those working in the perfume industry blending oils were also known to rarely get ill. In the past century, scientists have focused their studies of essential oils on antimicrobial properties. For example, a 2009 study showed that a blend of lemongrass and geranium oils diffused in an office environment not only reduced airborne levels of bacteria, but also reduced surface pathogens.
Often, aromatherapy treatment is applied by massage, but diffusion is an excellent way to reap the anti-microbial benefits of aromatherapy. There are many diffusers on the market and each has their place. The nebulizing diffuser is generally regarded as best for therapeutic purposes. These models atomize pure plant oils and propel them into the air in a fine mist that may remain suspended in the air for up to 2-3 hours. Another popular model is the ultrasonic diffuser, which dilutes the oils in water and then vaporizes the mist into the air. Ultrasonic diffusers are good for dry climates as they can add some moisture to the air. Several other diffusers work through simple evaporation of volatile essential oils and offer a milder scent. The diffuser you use will depend on the size of the room, your main purpose (therapy or scent), and your budget.
Before using essential oils or diffusers, you should educate yourself as to which oils are safe to use. Not all oils are safe, some are unsafe for children, and some should only be used for short periods of time. There are several excellent resources available at local libraries and on the internet for further study. Used wisely, essential oils can brighten your mood, help your body stave off disease, and make your home smell wonderful in the process