Aromatherapy and Relaxation:
A Perfect Combination

Aromatherapy and relaxation can be combined to reduce anxiety and stress levels and there is more than one aromatherapy benefit available to you.

If you're like the average person, you probably have a few candles or air fresheners lying around the house and you probably use a relaxing aromatherapy bath product in the tub.

While these products can do wonderful things for you (like set the mood for a romantic evening or cover up pet odours), they also have the power to alter your health and mood. How so? This is where aromatherapy and relaxation come in.

Aromatherapy and relaxation are highly compatible themes.

Through the sense of smell, essential oils stimulate olfactory receptor cells, which then transmit an impulse to a specific part of the brain known as the limbic system.

The limbic system is connected to memory, so specific emotions can be triggered by one smell. For example, the aroma of a freshly baked apple pie might bring back happy childhood memories.

But most importantly, the limbic system is connected to blood circulation and endocrine glands (responsible for regulating hormone levels), which is why aromatherapy can be beneficial to your health.

Basil. You're probably familiar with this one, at least as a spice used in the kitchen. In aromatherapy, it is known for stimulating brain functions and helping to ease depression and relieve muscle aches. Note: you should avoid basil essential oil if you are pregnant.

Bergamot. If you are an Earl Grey fan like me, then you are familiar with this scent. Bergamot is a very versatile essential oil that can alleviate the symptoms of several skin conditions as well as reduce depression and anxiety. Note: if used on skin, make sure the bergamot oil is distilled or bergaptene-free and you should stay away from the sun.

Black pepper. Just like too much pepper activates your sweat glands, black pepper can stimulate blood circulation. It is especially useful for easing muscular aches and improving the quick disappearance of bruises. Don't get me wrong here... I'm not saying that pouring ground pepper in your eye will make your black eye disappear faster... All you'd get from that is a lot of pain... Essential black pepper oil diluted in a carrier oil will help heal a bruise faster (but don't get it in your eyes!)

Chamomile. You have probably come across soothing chamomile tea in the aisles of your grocery store. Use chamomile if you suffer from insomnia, nausea and/or rheumatism. It relaxes your entire body and reduces stress and pain associated with sprains, strains and wounds. Aromatherapy and relaxation are also compatible with herbal teas and other comfort food.

Jasmine. Jasmine can be used to improve your mood, boost your sense of well-being, create a romantic atmosphere, reduce symptoms of depression and inspire your creative spirit.

Lavender is known worldwide for its properties to create calm and relaxation. It can also soothe headaches and migraines. Luckily for us, some well-known companies now sell lavender-scented laundry detergents and fabric softeners. Who said that doing laundry had to be a chore?

Marjoram. Marjoram can help relax aching muscles and muscle cramps. It also alleviates some symptoms of bronchitis such as coughing. It can reduce hypertension, your stress levels and pain associated with sprains and strains.

• Sometimes, it's even simpler to keep our regular habits and add a few drops of essential oils. Read more on which essential oil to use in your aromatherapy skin care product or discover how to create aromatherapy skin care sessions in the comfort of your home.
• Are you looking for wholesale aromatherapy candles?
• Here is a reliable online aromatherapy supplier.
• Essential oils come in all shapes and sizes so it is always within your reach. Click here to read more on aromatherapy products.