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WHAT IS AROMATHERAPY? At its core, aromatherapy is the practice of using plant-derived botanicals, most commonly essential oils, for therapeutic benefit. Essential oils are highly concentrated, pure extracts from plants, leaves, bark, peels, seeds, roots, or petals. When the essence, or the cells that give a plant its signature fragrance, is extracted from the petal or leaf and processed, it becomes an essential oil. It takes a lot of essence to make essential oils—over 200 pounds of jasmine flowers are used to make just one pound of jasmine essential oil. The history of aromatherapy dates back almost as far as human civilization itself. Ancient texts found in Asia, Egypt, and parts of the Mediterranean describe rituals where scented ointments, oils, cosmetics, and perfumes were made and distributed for spiritual, hygienic, or therapeutic purposes. HOW DOES AROMATHERAPY WORK? When an essential oil is inhaled, the scent molecules travel from olfactory nerves (AKA, your nose) to the brain and have a particular impact on the hippocampus and amygdala, two parts of your brain that regulate memories and emotions. While researchers aren't exactly sure why or how essential oils work, the general belief is that these scents stimulate the hippocampus and amygdala to induce physical, emotional, and/or mental benefits. For example, lavender essential oils are often used to promote relaxation and restful sleep. It's said that when the lavender scent is inhaled or used topically, the scent triggers the same brain activity as melatonin or other sedatives. From improving sleep to reducing pain, anxiety, or depression, the bonuses of aromatherapy are believed to be far-reaching. As aromatherapy has gained popularity, lower-grade essential oils that are mixed with fragrances and other chemicals are more widely available. To reap aromatherapy's advantages, look for only pure essential oils—these will be 100% plant essence that don't change the plant chemistry while the essence is derived. AROMATHERAPY METHODS The typical method for putting aromatherapy into practice in your space is through inhalation. Whether you're lighting stress-relief candles or diffusing mood-boosting essential oils, this surrounds you (and fills your home) with favorable scents. Many also use essential oils through topical application, like a bubble bath, lotion, or massage. Be aware that some essential oils can cause skin irritation and others are toxic for pets, so always research what's safe for you and your furry friends before use. POPULAR SCENTS & BENEFITS There are hundreds of essential oil scents to choose from. Here are a few scents and their known perks. LAVENDER Best for: Better Sleep Lavender's soothing and herbaceous properties encourage relaxation and sleep improvement. Some use it with a massage oil for full-body recovery. PEPPERMINT Best for: Waking Up Peppermint's punch doesn't only take you back to the holidays—it can increase alertness and alleviate mental fatigue. ORANGE Best for: Mood Boosting This bright, citrusy smell can lift a low mood and inspire feelings of joy. EUCALYPTUS Best for: Clearing Sinuses The cool, unmistakable scent of eucalyptus is most useful for nasal congestion and coughs. It can be an insect repellent, too. CHAMOMILE Best for: Treating Anxiety Not just a comforting cup of tea, chamomile's scent can effectively manage anxiety and calm nerves. SANDALWOOD Best for: Focus This soft, woodsy fragrance is used in perfumes and has been seen to intensify focus and clarity. YLANG YLANG Best for: Stress Relief Usually employed to minimize tension, ylang ylang's light and floral aroma is also good for enhancing the nervous system and lowering blood pressure.