THE BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO AROMATHERAPY

Reviving, relaxing, mood-boosting; essential oils can be a wellbeing wonder, but where do you start when it comes to using them? Read our easy beginner’s guide to find out…

Everything you need to know to get started

A well-chosen, cleverly used oil can make positive changes to your emotional and physical wellbeing

Forget what you thought you knew about aromatherapy; it goes beyond making shampoo smell nice, or being something you encounter during a massage. This wellbeing marvel works on many levels; from a skin saviour and mood-changer to an effective health supporter and more. Essential oils are the therapeutic movers and shakers, so knowing how to use them is key.

How do essential oils work?

When you inhale an essential oil, powerful plant extracts enter the nasal passage, sending signals to the area of the brain that deals with emotions and memories, plus areas that control heart rate, breathing and hormone balance. So, a well-chosen, cleverly used oil can help make positive changes to your emotional and physical wellbeing.

What can they do for you?

Studies reveal that essential oils may help improve mood, reduce stress, aid relaxation, manage pain, ease menopause and PMS symptoms and soothe headaches. Using them is a joy, too. ‘Put them in a bath or shower, a diffuser to scent a room, a base oil for massage or a spritz for insect repellent,’ says leading aromatherapist Glenda Taylor.