Aromatherapy For Dummies: Why The Right Scents Make Sense

Despite the fact that there are literally thousands of research studies involving aromatherapy and essential oils, the science community is rather reluctant to deliver a definitive answer on whether it is effective or not. At best, they can say that certain scents may help some people in special situations. In plain terms, it might help, it might not. If you are hesitating on trying something invasive or you just do not want to take a pill or medication, you can do you own study on essential oils and aromatherapy. If it works for you, then continue to use them. If not, then no harm, no foul.

One of the most common suggestions for aromatherapy is geared toward relaxation and decompressing the mind for better sleep and to reduce or eliminate stress. Lavender is often the essential oil or scent that is recommended for this situation. A trip down any candle aisle will show you that lavender, often paired with vanilla and other subtle scents is a top seller. The same can be said in the laundry product aisle and the cleanser aisle. Lavender has been used for centuries to help improve sleep and to relax people both through scent, teas and even little cookies made for the herb. Dried sprigs of lavender were layered among clothing and used to stuff mattresses. A small dish of dried lavender can be used at the bedside to promote relaxation and sleep.

Aromatherapy is often suggested for use for weight loss as well. A vanilla candle, for instance, burned during a meal is supposed to be helpful in reducing the amount of food that is consumed because it tricks the brain into feeling sated faster. This only works with select people, however. If you are a really fast eater, no amount of vanilla scent will help reduce how much you are eating until you feel full and the only way to make it work would be to use the unlit candle in place of a fork. Mindful eaters may be able to employ the use of this scent effectively but not just because of the smell itself.

We all know that scent is used for attraction as well. In one study, women who were wearing pink grapefruit and citrusy scented perfumes were rated as much younger than they actually were. Men also showed a supreme preference to certain scents including vanilla and strangely, pumpkin pie spices . Women liked citrusy smells at a higher rate than they did the musky smells as well.

Source: http://www.streetarticles.com/aromatherapy/aromatherapy-for-dummies-why-the-right-scents-make-sense

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