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How Aromatherapy works

There are two major theories

1. The first suggest that the essential oils are absorbed through the skin and into the
somatic tissues. When massaged into the skin, essential oils may activate the skin‘s
thermal receptors and destroy fungi, bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. Some
individuals believe a number of essential oils possess anti-inflammatory effects and
provide soothing relief for arthritis, burns, and muscular pain.

2. The second theory suppose that essential oils stimulate the olfactory nerve and send
signals to the brain‘s limbic system and a complex neural network that is closely
associated with memories, emotions, and instincts. This stimulation is believed to trigger
the release of chemicals that contribute to feelings of calm, relaxation, or stimulation.

Application Methods for Aroma-essential Oils:

There are three ways of absorption including inhalation, ingestion or diffusion through
the skin tissue.
 Inhalation: Essential oils enter the body via inhalation using a steam infusion or

burner. Due to their volatility, they can be inhaled easily through the respiratory
tract and lungs, which can distribute them into the bloodstream.

Fig. (8) Inhalation Aromatic oils

 Ingestion: Oral ingestion of essential oils needs attention due to the potential
toxicity of some oils.

 Absorption through the Skin: Essential oil compounds are fat soluble and thus

they have the ability to penetrate the membranes of the skin before being captured
by the micro-circulation and drained into the systemic circulation, which reaches
all target organs.

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