Aromatherapy and Essential Oils

Aromatherapy has become one of the fields attracting considerable attention today. According to sources, essential oils used in aromatherapy applications have been in use for thousands of years. Essential oils have held their place in health and beauty throughout history because these oils offered by nature are easily accessible. More importantly, our bodies naturally know how to use plants and their oils. There is evidence that essential oils held an important place in Anatolian, Chinese and Egyptian medicine. For example, hundreds of liters of essential oils were found in specially preserved bottles in the tomb of King Tutankhamun. Cleopatra used essential oils in SPA (salve per aqua) treatment and for her beauty. Hippocrates, regarded as the father of modern medicine, used essential oils with patients 2,000 years ago with the phrase 'nature is your cure', referring to essential oils.

What is Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy, a branch of complementary and alternative medicine based on biological and natural foundations, is the use of essential oils derived from plants in a way that supports healing physically, emotionally and spiritually. Aromatherapeutic applications go beyond finding a sole remedy for disease; they envision treatment through broad-scale interaction for body and mental health. Aiming to establish balance in the organism, aromatherapy is based on the principle of the body and mind supporting and healing itself through stimulation. Body and spirit are treated as a whole in aromatherapy, and it is accepted that any disorder or irregularity in one will create negative effects on the other. The therapeutic effects of the phytochemical components of essential oils we use in aromatherapy have been proven through research. These oils have physical and mental effects on our bodies.

Synthetic Components and Derivatives Are Not Used in Aromatherapy

The oils used in aromatherapy are stored naturally in the plant's structure as odor-giving substances. These beautifully scented oils obtained through various methods from different parts of plants – bark, leaf, flower, fruit, seed, stem, root – carry volatile properties. Because they evaporate and mix with the air, they are called 'essential oils'. Although components written as perfume or fragrance on labels are perceived as being in the same category as essential oils, they are very different from each other. Perfumes or fragrances contain synthetic chemicals and do not have the healing effects of essential oils. The point to note here is that components written as 'fragrance - parfum' are definitely not natural and do not have the effects of essential oils.

Conscious and Careful Application of Aromatherapy Is Required

Aromatherapy is a reliable and harmless supportive treatment method when applied with knowledge and skill. However, like all other health-related applications, it must be applied consciously and carefully. The most important fundamental teaching of aromatherapy is never to apply an essential oil to your skin without dilution. Use essential oils with the same care as you would use medications. If you use essential oils carefully, aromatherapy can be an incredible blessing within a holistic lifestyle, allowing you to benefit from all the advantages it offers. Dilute essential oils before using them on your skin and be careful with oils that can cause irritation or sensitivity. Even if you have used one or more undiluted essential oils before and experienced no problems, this does not guarantee you will not experience problems in the future. Proper dilution is always important. It should not be forgotten that the oils of certain plant species are highly toxic. For example, oral intake of less than a teaspoon of eucalyptus oil could cause probable death. Some oils, even when not toxic in dosage, if used in ways not in accordance with aromatherapy principles, can harm the organism.

Use of Essential Oils
"A Small Drop Goes a Long Way"

Incorporating essential oils into your lifestyle is quite easy, different, fun and therapeutically beneficial. Below are several ways you can get started. These methods are presented only as suggestions, and you must pay special attention to all safety precautions applicable to each essential oil you choose. Also, it should be kept in mind that essential oils are flammable.

Steam Inhalation

Boil 2 cups of water. Pour the water into a container and add 3-7 drops of oil. If you are using an oil that can cause irritation to mucous membranes (for example, Cinnamon, eucalyptus, rosemary, pine, thyme, cajuput, etc.), use less oil. Breathe slowly with your face held 20 cm away from the container (do not continuously inhale the steam) and discontinue if you experience any irritation or discomfort. Steam inhalation may be helpful for colds and flu. This method can be done anytime, day or night.

Refreshing Room Air

As with the steam inhalation method, boil 2 cups of water. Pour the water into a container and add 7-10 drops of oil (do not directly inhale into the reservoir). If you are using an oil that can cause sensitivity, use fewer drops. You can refresh your room's air using an aromatherapy diffuser or incense burner.

Refreshing General Home Air

Add a few drops of oil to a handkerchief to place in trash cans, laundry, garbage disposal, vacuum filter bags or drawers.

Insect Repellent

Many essential oils such as citronella, lemongrass, cedarwood, eucalyptus, lavender and peppermint are natural repellents against insects. Pour a few drops of essential oil onto fabric or cotton and place near your doors and windows to help repel insects. Make sure you have read all safety information about the oils you use, as some oils may not be suitable for use around pets. Be careful not to apply essential oil directly to delicate surfaces.

Aromatherapy Massage

It is used as massage oil by adding approximately 12 drops of essential oil to 30 ml of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil. Keep away from eyes and genital areas. Never apply essential oils to skin without dilution. Make sure you have also read the safety information of the essential oils you choose to use.

Scented Hair Care Oil

Contents: 1 drop rosemary, 1 drop lavender or sandalwood oil. How to use: Apply one drop of this mixture to your hairbrush and brush your hair thoroughly. The mixture will add a pleasant aroma to your hair.

Natural Aromatherapy Hair Care Recipe

Contents: 1 teaspoon jojoba, 1-3 drops rosemary oil. Preparation: This recipe is easy to make. Mix the jojoba and rosemary oil in a small container. This recipe can be increased and stored in a glass bottle.

How to use:

Wet your hair with lukewarm water and then apply the care mixture. Allow it to remain in your hair for 15-30 minutes. Then wash your hair normally. Jojoba and rosemary oils are especially beneficial for dry hair. Rosemary essential oil is helpful for dandruff. Before trying this mixture, make sure you have read the safety information for rosemary oil. Hülya Dağöttüren Biochemist Clinical Aromatherapist T.C. Yeditepe University Cosmetics Research and Development Coordinator