Aromatherapy Herbs and Essential Oils

Aromatic herbs are some of the most unusual plant species in the plant kingdom; nothing can be as useful and beneficial as Aromatherapy herbs. Their contribution to the civilization is a fact well recognized.

Aromatic plants are those which contain certain natural compounds called natural scents. Most of these critical extracts are obtained from different parts of a plant like leaves, stem, flowers, seeds and roots. Though they are hidden in these parts, they can be extracted by distillation or fractionation processes.

The number of catalogued aromatic herbs exceeds 250, though many of them are not really productive. However, about 100 varieties are known to possess unique compounds that are used as aromatherapy essential oils.

Herbs have a variety of effects including antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, sedative or stimulant properties. By being aware of each plants properties and used carefully, man can be relieved of various symptoms or illnesses. In general, oil has the ability to strengthen the immune system, and are detoxifying in nature. Essential oils can be used as preventative treatment; most symptoms can be reduced with regular treatment.

Various herbs and plants that can be used are - Basil, Lavender, Garlic, Aloe Vera, Seaweed, Nettle, Rosemary, Tea Tree, Dandelion and Liquorices. Basil has expectorant and antibiotic/antiseptic properties. Lavender is a relaxant. Garlic is antiseptic, antibiotic and expectorant.

The expectorant properties make garlic excellent for the respiratory system. The juice from a bulb of garlic can be used on cuts and bruises. Rosemary is an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic plant, its uses are various. Tea Tree is an antiseptic and mild disinfectant which aids healing, strengthening the immune system. Dandelion is used to treat kidney or liver disorders. The root stimulates the liver and the leaves act as a diuretic. Liquorices are used as an antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and expectorant herb.

Aromatic herbs, due its therapeutic properties, are cherished by many professionals in the world. Hundreds of recipes are researched and chronicled every day, each with different use and application. Carefully selected herbs are chosen to extract essential oils and refined for a long shelf life.

Many herbs can even be grown in containers at home or cottage gardens; the fresh aroma and the sweet essence of flowers and leaves are sources of joy and relaxation for any garden owner. Aromatherapy herbs are known to special plants for special purposes; its organic extracts are all pure and 100% safe for therapeutic uses.

Aromatic oils are eternal and mans quest for perfection to acquire a pure essential oil is never ending.

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What is aromatherapy?

The use of essential oils (extracts or essences) from flowers, herbs, and trees to promote health and well-being.
A system of caring for the body with botanical oils such as rose, lemon, lavender (used to soothe cuts, bruises and insect bites), and peppermint. These essential oils can be added to a bath, massaged through the skin, inhaled directly, used with teas, or scented in a room. This therapy is intended to relieve pain, care for the skin, and alleviate tension and fatigue.
The use of fragrant, natural, botanical essential oils from plants, leaves, bark, roots, seeds, resins and flowers as a healing art. Aromatherapy refreshes and relaxes the skin while soothing the mind by helping to induce a sense of well-being. Each individual essence is used to produce a specific beneficial effect. Used in massage and facials.
The use of essential oils from aromatic plants to restore and enhance health and beauty as defined by the American Aromatherapy Association. Aromatherapy uses as its basic ingredients essential oils, which represent the highest herbal energy. Essential oils are highly concentrated, volatile extracts retrieved from aromatic herbs, flowers, seeds and trees; they contain hormone-like properties, vitamins, minerals and natural antiseptics.