Examining Aromatherapy & it's unique benefits

What is Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is a complementary, holistic therapy that combines massage therapy with the use of essential oils. Essential oils are potent plant extracts found in therapeutic plants, flowers & trees. Aromatherapy works on a few different levels, the massage itself can offer relief from muscular tension, reduce stress and increase relaxation, and the fragrance from the oils can also have a powerful influence on the central nervous system, further adding to relaxation and a sense of well-being.

The chemistry/ make up of the oils adds another layer of benefit. An aromatherapist works with a wide range of plant oils with different therapeutic properties. Some oils are referred to as nervines, these are useful for issues like anxiety & fear. Other oils are anti spasmodic, anti inflammatory, analgesic, circulatory stimulants and diuretics to name a few. The aromatherapist carries out a consultation to ensure the correct oils are chosen to suit your current issues and needs. Some therapists may choose oils based on up to date, evidence based, clinical research, while some may combine this with or use traditional knowledge of the plants that has been passed on through the generations but might not have been tested in clinical settings.

The therapist will usually encourage you to inhale and smell the fragrance, and then used the blend of carefully selected oils for your massage treatment. By applying the blend of oils to the skin, the ingredients can enter the body through the skin in the same way topical creams and lotions do. Aromatherapy does not claim to cure or offer an alternative to medical treatments, it offers additional support and complements medical treatments and other healing modalities.

How does aromatherapy differ from a normal massage?

In addition to the use of essential oils, the aromatherapy massage uses some techniques that may not be used during a general massage. It combines lymphatic massage, neuromuscular massage as well as Swedish massage. Attunement and stimulation of the neurolymphatic reflex points are used to create a relaxing yet therapeutic treatment. This treatment is suitable for those who like light, medium or firm touch as the pressure can be adjusted to suit the individual. It is sometimes believed that Aromatherapy is a very light treatment, this however isn't really true as it depends entirely on the therapist and the needs of the client.

Why do Aromatherapists need to know about my lifestyle and medical history?

Aromatherapy is a holistic therapy, which means it aims to treat the whole person with the focus on personal care, prevention, health & well-being. It is important therefore to look at all factors that could be affecting your well-being, this includes stress levels, water intake, eating patterns, sleep, medical issues, what you do for work/ what posture you are in for long periods etc. That's why true aromatherapy is recommended as a course of treatments rather than just a one-off session.

Aromatherapy at Natural Roots Wellness

We offer two types of aromatherapy at the centre. Our Evolve Aroma massages are offered for those who simply want

to experience essential oils for general well-being, with the choice of 4 pre blended oils being offered. We also offer Clinical Aromatherapy which includes a much more detailed look at your health and lifestyle so a suitable blend and treatment plan can be devised. If you'd like any further details about aromatherapy please don't hesitate to get in touch.