How Aromatherapy Oils Can Change Your Life

Us girls love a good smell; whether it’s our favourite candle at bathtime or our boyfriend’s aftershave, we can’t deny the power of scent. So it’s no surprise that we’re massively into aromatherapy – after all, if science says that lavender is going to help us sleep or chamomile will help with stress, who are we to argue? Here we break down everything we know about the practice and what we would diagnose using for every problem…

What are aromatherapy oils and what are they used for?

According to Aromatherapy: A Systematic Review, the practice of aromatherapy dates back to Ancient Egypt and India. Aromatherapy oils, or essential oils, are basically plant extracts derived from roots, bark, flowers and seeds. The science behind using them to improve our physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing is that our sense of smell is directly connected to the part of the brain that processes emotions, so when we smell certain things, it triggers certain responses.Clever, huh?

Can aromatherapy oils be used on the skin?

Step away from the lavender oil – you should never apply directly to the skin. Instead, it’s far better to dilute in water first – a few drops usually does the trick.

How do you use aromatherapy oils?

There are loads of ways to use them; you can dilute them and apply to your pressure points, put a few droplets on your clothing or pillows, or even in a diffuser or oil burner.

How long do aromatherapy oils last?

You can keep your stash on the shelf for anything from 3-6 years, depending on the oil itself. Most have a shelf-date clearly labelled.

How do you store aromatherapy oils?

Aromatherapy oils can become damaged if they are exposed to heat or light, so it’s best to keep them in a cool, dry space.

Are they safe to use during pregnancy?

According to Clinical Aromatherapy In Practice, the most commonly used essential oils to avoid using during pregnancy are aniseed, star anise, fennell and dill. Clary sage, clove or cinnamon, are also ones to avoid as they may encourage contractions - unless you're trying to bring on birth, that is...

What aromatherapy oils can you use for anxiety?

Clinical Atomatherapy: Essential Oils in Practice showed the positive affects of aromatherapy on anxiety levels. There are lots of scents that work to reduce worry but our favourites are frankincense, bergamot, basil and lavender.

What aromatherapy oils can you use for stress?

If you’re feeling a little under pressure, opt for geranium, peppermint, jasmine or chamomile. Ahh, that's better.

What aromatherapy oils can you use for relaxation?

Similar to stress-relief, there’s also clary sage, tangerine and patchouli to try. Clary sage in particular seems to work for us.

What aromatherapy oils can you use for depression?

Bergamot, lavendar, chamomile and ylang ylang are the top four if you're feeling blue - probably because they are both relaxing and smell pretty good too. What's not to love?

What aromatherapy oils can you use for sleep?

We’ve been putting droplets of lavender, chamomile and clary sage on our pillows for as long as we can remember, and science backs us up, with Clinical Aromatherapy: Essential Oils in Practice, saying 'lavendar can be beneficial to relax patients, enabling them to sleep'.

What aromatherapy oils can you use for glowing skin?

Lavender oil is the go-to bathroom cabinet oil for our skin, as it combats both dry and oily skin and is a great anti-ager. It will also make you smell rather lovely.

What aromatherapy oils can you use for during labour?

Want to ease your birth through aromatherapy? Go for frankincense and clary sage, which can help start contractions.

Now put your newfound knowledge to good use with our edit of the best aromatherapy bath and body oils on the market...

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