aromatherapy the scent of the season

The holidays are filled with many familiar and comforting scents…fresh baked bread, peppermint sticks, and the scent of a fresh cut tree decorated for the season.

In addition to these scents, there are many other scents that can cause positive changes in the mood, mind, and body.

Through the sense of smell, aromas stimulate the part of the brain that handles emotions and memory. Scent can affect mood and feelings, while at the same time causing physiological changes in the body. This is the practice of aromatherapy—the use of essential oils and scents for healing the body as well as for pleasing the senses. Essential oils, which have been used since ancient times, are the concentrated aromatic oils of plants.

Citrus, peppermint, and rosemary can help rejuvenate and refresh the mind. Rose is known for its pleasing scent, but it can also give an overall sense of well-being. Ylang ylang and bergamot are scents that help relax, and lavender is the most popular scent, studied for its positive benefits on sleep quality. These are just a few of the many essential oils available for aromatherapy.

Essential oils are not only used through inhalation, but also have external soothing and healing benefits for the body. Essential oils can now be found in numerous cosmetic formulations, including lotions, soaps, oral care products, shampoo, bath oils, and bath salts.

Aromatherapy lends itself to numerous gift ideas for others, or even for yourself, during the holiday season. Single and synergistic combination essential oils are available, along with natural fragrance oils, carrier oils, and diffusers. Aromatherapy products are gifts that are not only pleasing to the senses but also mindful of health and well-being. ●

Seasonal recipes for DIY aromatherapy:

Vanilla Chai Latte Air Mist

If you love the smell of sweet coffee blends, this air spray is perfect for home, office, or car.

Recipe courtesy www.WyndmereNaturals.com 10 drops coffee 3% essential oil 8 drops vanilla 3% essential oil 1 drop cinnamon essential oil 1 drop clove essential oil

1. Add essential oils to a 1-oz mister bottle. Fill with water.

2. Shake well and spray.

Eucalyptus Peppermint Essential Oil Salve

Open the senses and clear the air with this camphor- and menthol-rich salve.

Recipe courtesy www.AuraCacia.com 4 ounces coconut oil 24 drops eucalyptus essential oil 24 drops peppermint essential oil 1 4-oz wide mouth jar with lid

1. In jar, combine all ingredients. Use a fork to mix until well combined.

2. To use, apply 1 to 2 teaspoons to chest, upper back, and neck area.

Fresh Fallen Snow

A refreshing diffuser blend for winter days.

Recipe courtesy www.NOWfoods.com 1 drop wintergreen essential oil 2 drops pine needle essential oil 6 drops grapefruit essential oil

1. Add the oils to a diffuser and enjoy. Be sure to follow manufacturer’s directions for your diffuser.