The therapeutic potential of essential oils has yet to be fully understood. Ongoing scientific research is needed. We do know that essential oils can benefit systems of the body and affect each one differently. Essential oils work on the emotional level, the energetic level, and the physiological level. They are all interconnected. Essential oils affect the mind, body, and spirit, and provide a holistic approach to supporting the body.
Aromatherapy is much more than merely a reaction to an aroma or scent. Essential oils have three modes of action:
PSYCHOLOGICAL - imagine that you have gone back in time to your early childhood home. Close your eyes and picture walking through the door. Chances are, in addition to familiar objects, certain smells will also spark your memory -- your mother's perfume, the smell of baking cookies -- essential oils have a remarkable ability to influence your psyche by evoking moods and memories.
PHARMACOLOGICAL - Chemical changes take place as the body reacts to the application of essential oils. Doctors who study phytotherapy (the study of the whole plant) are trained to use herbs and essential oils internally to supplement the body's health systems. Essential oils have a remarkable ability to work in harmony with the body in maintaining overall good health.
PHYSIOLOGICAL - Essential oils applied externally take physiological action. The action is more subtle than oral applications and less likely to cause undesired effects. For example, Rosemary and Peppermint stimulate, while Roman Chamomile and Lavender sedate. Rosemary is a hypertensor (supports energy boosting), while Geranium is a hypotensor (assists in relaxation). This is one of the reasons essential oils should not be used internally without qualified medical advice. For people with abnormalities within their body systems, ingestion of an essential oil that has a direct action on the affected system could cause their conditions to worsen.


