When I last visited the store, it seemed as though everywhere I turned there were many different products promising results, which were simply based on the fact that they contained a specific aromatherapy scent, which would include candles, oils, and shampoos. But, there was one key question that kept popping up in my head: are all these aromatherapy treatments just fluff, which are aimed at selling more products to consumers or could they be linked to some actual research?

Aromatherapy as a practice has been around for centuries dating back to the ancient Egyptians however as individuals we experience this phenomenon in our everyday lives with out even being aware of the fact. How many times have you walked down a street or into a room and suddenly gotten a whiff of something that brought back wonderful memories or just made you feel great and energized? Every time this occurs you are experiencing aromatherapy; it is just occurring passively in your daily life.

The resulting fact is that aromatherapy is based on science, of which studies have shown reflect on the interactions between the psychological, neurological and immune system. Also, current research has identified there to be a strong correlation between the positive and negative experiences, together with our immune system and psyche. You will also find that the old adage of mind over body is understood and recognized by science, and that it is appreciated by the modern medical field. However, we do need to appreciate that you are able to give your mood a boost by creating a more positive outlook by using aromatherapy, and by doing so you are ultimately strengthening your overall mind, body and spirit.

Aromatherapy works because it utilizes the sense of smell which is our strongest sense. Unlike the other senses, our sense of smell has a direct path to the brain and more importantly it has a direct path to our limbic system. Through this direct portal aromas are able to directly affect conscious thought and reactions as the limbic system is responsible for our memories (turning short term to long term), learned responses, emotions and feelings.

Although aromatherapy utilizes the sense of smell by triggering specific parts of the brain it also works by directly absorbing the essential oil molecules into our bodies, whether it is through the bronchial tract when using a differ or steam distillation or through the skin in a massage or bath.

In cases where an individual uses dual absorption of the essential oil, they will find that they will receive all the benefits from the one oil. However, there is also the case that a person needs to use different essential oils, because each oil will work differently and will also have a different level of efficiency – this will depend on how the oil is applied to the body.

For example, if a person uses peppermint oil, then it has been proven that the most effective way to has been known for its ability to calm a person’s digestive problems and will work better when inhaled, but there will be others that will work better when they are massaged into a person’s skin.

There is also the fact that even if a specific essential oil has unique benefits, these have been proven as to not work evenly for all adults. You will find, for example, that Lavender is considered by many as an effective oil to calm a person’s mind, body and spirit. Yet, if the smell of Lavender turns you off, then you will most probably not see the full effect and benefits that others will. This means that it will be important for you to work individually with the different essential oils to find specific ones you enjoy.

Finding the ones that you can use the most will be quite simple, as you will find most essential oils have similar or overlapping benefits. Thus, this will leave you with a different range of options to choose from. You will also find that there is also one other option, which is to mix together a number of different essential oils and create your own fragrance. Some people choose this because they can ultimately receive vast benefits they have to offer.