How Do Essential Oils Work And Which Skin Conditions Are They Good For?
Essential Oils are effective in addressing multiple skin, body and mind disorders thanks to their rebalancing properties. Each essential oil contains 150 active molecules and has the same molecular structure as our blood and lymph. Therefore, the body recognises and absorbs them into the deepest layer of the skin, the dermis. Aromatherapy works on three main levels, through the sense of smell, through absorption and through absorption via skin.
The Three Main Levels of Aromatherapy
Smell
As we breathe in essential oils the oils stimulate the highly sensitive cells at the back of the nostrils, sending signals directly to the brain and alerting the limbic system, which is connected to the parts of the brain that control memory, stress levels, and hormonal and emotional balances.
The sense of smell is the most primitive of all our senses and it is linked to some of the oldest and deepest parts of the brain. As we breathe in the aromas of the essential oils, it can trigger emotional and even physical responses and allow vivid memory recall of people or places.
It is thought by scientists that the activity of the nerve signal passing through this region causes mood change by altering brain chemistry.
This makes them a powerful tool in treating the emotional state.
Absorption
Another effective way that aromatherapy works is through the inhalation of the essential oils which then travels internally and absorbed. This is especially effective within the respiratory system as their antibacterial and antiviral properties make them ideal for maintaining a healthy respiratory system. This includes the sinuses, throat and chest and also to help relieve symptoms of infections and allergies.
There are various ways to inhale the benefits of aromatherapy even when you're on the go. For a moment of balance and peace during a tough day, try applying an Aromatherapy Associates Roller Balls on your pulse points and breathe in the benefits of aromatherapy. They have a formulation of 2.5% essential oil concentration to give you a moment of comfort before going back and taking control of your day. The Support Breathe Roller Ball is especially good for when you are feeling under the weather as it includes a natural blend of Eucalyptus, Pine, Tea Tree and Peppermint Oils to maintain easy breathing and a clear head.
Alternatively, take some time out and indulge in the benefits of aromatherapy at the comfort of your own home by adding 2 to 3 of our pure essential oils drops to the Aromatherapy Associates Home Fragrancer and forget your worries to enjoy a moment to yourself.
Use on of Aromatherapy Associates Bath And Shower Oils, massage a capful onto your torso, focusing on any areas of concern. Cup your hands, bring them to your face and inhale deeply 3 times to reap the benefits of aromatherapy linked to your sense of smell. Step into a warm bath or shower and enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy.
Absorption Through the Skin
The molecules in the essential oils are small enough to allow them to penetrate through the skin. The molecules travel through the epidermis, reaching the dermis to the blood vessels allowing them to circulate through to all body areas.
Most essential oils have antibacterial properties, some are antiviral, anti fungal and/or anti inflammatory. Essential oils also contain antioxidants which help to prevent cell damage and protect against the build up of toxic waste in skin cells, thereby helping reduce signs of ageing.
In skincare products, by penetrating into the deeper layers of the skin, essential oils can have a positive effect on the skin, such as optimising the cellular renewal process, enhancing blood circulation and addressing problems such as acne, eczema and ageing skin.
Also, it is important to note that some essential oils treat certain skin conditions better than others. Decleor Aromessence Neroli Amara is great for dehydrated skin as it increases hydration levels, Decleor Aromessence Lavandula Iris Facial Oil helps those with slackened skin as it targets lines and wrinkles, and Decleor Aromessence Rose decreases sensitivity in the skin by strengthening its protective barrier.
Once the constituents of essential oils enter the bloodstream they can be carried to all areas of your body. They reach areas with a good network of blood vessels more quickly; for example, the liver, kidneys and some muscle groups.
The majority of essential oil constituents leave the body within hours, mainly through excretion via the kidneys, although their effects can last much longer within the tissues.
