Is There Therapeutic Benefit in Using Essential Oils?
We all know the powerful refreshing smell of the citrus oils when we peel an orange or lemon. That aroma alone can often bring a smile to our face or a boost to our emotions. But is there more to this than just a pleasing smell? Yes, there really is.
Aromatherapy is sometimes called Essential Oils Therapy. It is the practice of using concentrated extracts from plants and other natural sources to relieve negative feelings such as depression or anxiety and to prompt the body to begin its own healing processes.
The use of a sauna can be a tremendously relaxing experience providing deep healing. So it would make sense to combine these two forms of healing. Before beginning of this addition to your sauna regimen, we first consider these basic but powerful statements from an authority on the subject:
The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, called naha, supports these statements. They go even further to describe it as becoming more holistic and affecting the entire inner body.
How Do Essential Oil Therapy Accomplish This?
These compounds are extremely concentrated and are not used directly in full strength in most circumstances.
They are called essential oils as they are actually the essence of the fragrance of the plant. It is the root essence of the particular smell or aroma of the plant it was extracted from. As a result they are very concentrated. Just a few drops can fill the sauna cabin with the invigorating or relaxing smell.
For traditional steam saunas, the steps involve dissolving a few drops in a bucket or container of water. This water is then poured or spooned over the hot rocks or heater, misting the compounds into the air. This in then absorbed by the skin and inhaled.
Due to the deep and more rapid breathing that takes place in any sauna, caution is again warranted in using these sparingly. A little truly does go a long way in this instance. Never pour any concentrated oil directly on to any heater or heater rocks.
One additional benefit of using this in a steam sauna is due to the very nature of a steam environment. A traditional sauna, with its moisture and sweaty environment can become a breeding ground for various germs and bacteria. While regular cleaning is always recommended, using essential oils in the water used to produce the steam is a way to clean some of the bacteria. It helps to maintain some degree of a sterile environment.
So what are some of the Benefits and Effects of Aromatherapy?
There are many calming and healing benefits. However the primary is the stress reduction with relief of depression being listed as a close second.
While some reference an antidepressant benefit from essential oil therapy, we caution and encourage anyone struggling with depression or any medical condition to see advice from a physician. If the depression continues or worsens, seek counsel or medical advice. Lavender, chamomile and peppermint have been shown to aid in minor relief of feelings of depression.
If you want to begin this regimen, it is advised to start very slowly with one drop. Some people react strongly to any smells and the concentrated nature of these demand caution. You may not want to add this to your sauna sessions.
However, if you do want to give it a try, Clearlight is one brand that has included aromatherapy as part of its units.
However, many find this to be a great addition to the healing nature of infrared or even steam saunas. Give it a try. Start with a fragrance you know you will enjoy. Lemon, lavender and peppermint seem to be enjoyed by many.