Body-Centered Therapies
By Dr. Mehmet Oz
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy uses plant-based "essential oils" to stimulate the sense of smell. It is believed that particular aromas cause changes in the body's central nervous system and can enhance physical and emotional health and well-being. Aromatherapy is something you can practice easily at home using essential oils found in most health food stores.
There are several ways to use the oils—add them to your bath, put a few drops on a tissue and breathe in, or place several drops into two cups of boiling water. Or you can add 10 to 20 drops to an unscented lotion or carrier oil such as sweet almond, and use the lotion for massage or daily moisturizing.
Start with small amounts to test your sensitivity to certain oils. Common oils used for aromatherapy include: rose, lavender, rosemary, peppermint, bergamot, roman chamomile, mandarin, eucalyptus and jasmine.
There are several ways to use the oils—add them to your bath, put a few drops on a tissue and breathe in, or place several drops into two cups of boiling water. Or you can add 10 to 20 drops to an unscented lotion or carrier oil such as sweet almond, and use the lotion for massage or daily moisturizing.
Start with small amounts to test your sensitivity to certain oils. Common oils used for aromatherapy include: rose, lavender, rosemary, peppermint, bergamot, roman chamomile, mandarin, eucalyptus and jasmine.
Published 01/01/2006