All About Natural, and Herbal, Aromatherapy

Natural, and herbal, aromatherapy uses plant oils and other scented parts of a plant to benefit a person's mind and physical well being. The following information provides useful tips and guidelines towards natural, and herbal, aromatherapy treatments and products.

Natural Aromatherapy Products

Natural aromatherapy products include: essential aromatherapy oils, diffusers, vaporizers, aromatherapy candles, aromatherapy soaps, and creams and lotions that are mixed with aromatherapy products. When you purchase aromatherapy products, it is important to buy products which contain pure and organic ingredients.

The best essential aromatherapy oils to use are 100% organic, therapeutic grade, essential oils. Cheaper oils which contain artificial fragrances, along with additional chemicals like alcohol, may harm your skin; these less expensive imitators will not impart the mental, and health, benefits of pure aromatherapy products.

Lotions, creams, and soaps that contain essential aromatherapy oils should also be made with pure ingredients. The ingredients in these products should be easy to read and understand. These aromatherapy products are directly absorbed into your skin so the less chemicals they contain the better.

Aromatherapy candles should contain pure essential oils. These candles should be made with natural waxes such as soy or beeswax, and the wicks should be lead free. Paraffin waxes contain petroleum, and the high temperatures that these waxes reach can destroy the beneficial compounds of the essential oils; paraffin wax can also release harmful chemicals into the air that may cause respiratory problems.

Herbal Aromatherapy Products

Herbal aromatherapy products include herbal salves, teas, creams, sachets, and lotions. As with natural aromatherapy products, it is important to buy herbal aromatherapy products that only contain 100% organic herbs. The additional ingredients in these products should also be made from natural ingredients.

If you are interested in using your own herbal aromatherapy plants, it is easy to grow some of the more common herbs in your garden or windowsill. Thyme, rosemary, basil, oregano, cat nip, chamomile, and peppermint are just some of the beneficial herbs that you can grow at home. Using your own plants you can create aromatherapy teas, sachets, and even add the plants directly to your bathwater for aromatherapy treatments.

Natural, and Herbal, Aromatherapy Guidelines

Aromatherapy products contain potent plant materials. Some plant compounds can cause allergic reactions, especially in people with sensitive skin. Before you use an aromatherapy product, test a small area of your skin first. Other plants products should not be used during pregnancy or while nursing, or with people who have certain types of health conditions. Research any of the herbs that you wish to use for safety, and health, guidelines.