Unsurprisingly, people often question how aromatherapy oils work. How do these simple fragrances heal the body – or even relieve the mind? The answer may lie in the fact that olfactory (smelling) receptors are not found only in the nose – studies have revealed they’re also present in other parts of the body, including the spine, kidneys and the skin.
In other words, our sense of smell isn’t just limited to what we notice entering our nostrils – other parts of the body also perceive (and respond to) scent. Certain fragrances target these olfactory sensors in the body and skin, which is what researchers believe may activate the healing process when it comes to aromatherapy oils.
But since all aromatherapy oils have unique therapeutic qualities, it’s handy to know which ones work for what ailments, as well as to establish which scents you find most appealing. To get you started, here are a pick of some of the most powerful and sublime essential oils on the market:
1. Tea Tree
While the fragrance of tea tree oil may not be the most pleasant in the aromatherapy arena, it tops my list of must-have oils for its potent healing attributes. Used medicinally for hundreds of years by the aboriginal people of Australia, it’s only been recognised as a panacea by the wider healthcare community in the last few decades.
Studies have shown it to be an anti-fungal and anti-bacterial agent, useful in treating a diversity of ailments, including acne, dandruff, thrush, gingivitis, athlete’s foot, low-grade burns and minor bacterial infections.
2. Sandalwood
Besides the fact that sandalwood oil smells amazing (try putting a few drops of it into your bath, you’ll carry the scent – and the healing properties – with you all day), it also has an array of more practical qualities. Research has shown it to be instrumental in healing skin wounds by stimulating cell proliferation.
3. Lavender
Known primarily for its calming properties, lavender is extremely useful for those who suffer from anxiety or insomnia. Popping a few drops into a warm bath, a vapouriser or oil burner (or on your pillow at night, if you struggle with sleeplessness) not only produces a wonderful fragrance, but also promotes relaxation.
Lavender oil also has a mild antiseptic effect and helps to accelerate the healing of minor cuts, burns and scratches.
4. Peppermint
This oil’s fresh, clean scent is an excellent air deodoriser that invigorates, uplifts and enhances concentration. Studies have also shown it to be effective at relieving indigestion and mild irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and some people swear by it for relieving headaches.
Try rubbing a little of it on your temples to ease a migraine, or add a few drops to freshly-boiled water and hold your head over the steaming pot and inhale the steam to alleviate congestion.
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