Lemon, tea tree, ylang ylang
Pine, eucalyptus, lavender
Patchouli, bergamot, geranium
Peppermint, lavender
Bandalwood, ylang ylang, black pepper, neroli
Delivering Essential Oils
In addition to stimulating our scent-detecting organs, and through them the central
nervous system, inhaled oil molecules enter the respiratory system. There the mole-
cules attach to oxygen molecules and circulate through the body, bringing with
them the potential for activating self-healing processes. The equivalent in conven-
tional medicine is the use of inhalers in the treatment of asthma. Essential oils can
be inhaled directly or mixed with a carrier oil. Electrical and fan-assisted equipment
or an aromatherapy light bulb ring may be used to scent a room for therapeutic
purposes or to simply make the environment more pleasant. Steam inhalers can be
used in the treatment of respiratory infections.
Applied externally, essential oils can calm inflamed or irritated skin, soothe sore
muscles, decrease muscular tension, and release muscle spasms. Molecules of essen-
tial oils are so tiny they are quickly absorbed through the skin and enter the intercel-
lular fluid and the circulatory system, bringing healing nutrients to the cells. Some
oils such as basil, tea tree, and thyme encourage the production of white blood cells,
while others such as lavender and eucalyptus fight harmful bacteria, viruses, and
fungi. Oils may be applied just about anywhere: neck, face, wrists, over the heart,
back, arms, legs, and feet. Massage therapists and acupuncturists often use essential
oils in their treatments. Benefits are gained not only from the penetration of the oil
through the skin but also from inhalation of the vapor and from direct massage of
the skin and muscles. Essential oils do not remain in the body and are excreted in
urine, feces, perspiration, and exhalation usually in 3–6 hours.
A diffuser is a special air pump designed to disburse the oils in a micro-fine vapor
into the atmosphere where they stay suspended for several hours. Diffusing releases
oxygenating molecules as well as antiviral, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties.
Unlike commercial air fresheners, which mask odors, essential oils clean the air by
altering the structure of the molecules that create an unpleasant smell. Essential oils
help remove dust particles out of the air and, when diffused in the room, can be an
effective air filtration system.
CHAPTER 9 AROMATHERAPY 121
