How Essential Oils Work

Aromatherapy has been gaining a lot of popularity lately and more and more people are enjoying the perils of essential oils. There are many skeptics out there but at the same time there are millions of people who swear about the beneficial effects of essential oils used in aromatherapy.

The way essential oils work is by stimulating the limbic system of our brain. Every oil has a different impact because every scent influences a different part of our brain. As a result of the impact on the limbic system essential oils give out benefits for different parts of our body.

The way essential oils are applied is through a massage. What happens then is that the oils are absorbed by the skin or inhaled. Then they travel through the blood stream reaching organs of the body.

It doesn’t take that long to feel the effects of the absorption. It usually takes anywhere between 20 minutes to a few hours. Once the oils have been applied to your body they will need to stay on your skin for a couple of hours just so the oils are fully absorbed and thus getting the most out of them.

How long a fragrance lasts also depends on the fragrance. Some last a couple of hours while others can last up to a whole day. Different aromatherapy oils last longer than others. For instance, eucalyptus, peppermint, thyme, and bergamot are examples of oils that don’t last that long. On the other hand, hyssop, lavender and balm essential oils can last up to 72 hours. Then there are oils like jasmine, sandalwood, ginger and cedar wood that can last for up to a week.

In order to know which oils to apply it is important to predetermine ones needs and requirements. Then again, if there are more than a few needs it is important to know how to combine the oils to give out desired effects.

Combinations of aromatherapy oils can be mixed to give a massage or even in the bathtub and thus relax and calm an individual. The healing and calming effects of essential oils are many. Make sure you do your research and find which ones are good for what you need.