How Essential Oils Affect Your Brain
It seems like everyone is into Essential oils, these days. A trend is going around the world to eat and use organic products. And the same is the case with Pakistan, where people are going back to the basics. I see only oils and diffusers everywhere when I go around. Is it a craze in Pakistan and the rest of the world or it’s working so beneficial for all the people? Let’s find out.
Have you ever feel that essential oils help in changing your mood, but you may not be able to understand the science behind it. How come inhaling the Lavender oil makes you relaxed? Why do you feel so calm after rubbing Rosemary oil behind your ears? It’s a question that has puzzled many people. That’s why we have decided today to explain the science behind its working.
How essential oils affect your brain?
- It affects in the following three ways:
- You may inhale it.
- You may apply it directly to the skin.
- You may ingest it.
What happens when you apply it directly to the skin?
Essential oils can be applied directly to the skin. It allows permeability. The active chemical compounds present in essential oils work just like the hormone balancing therapy. Massaging in circular motions helps to increase the absorption of essential oils.
Major Examples
Apply a mixture of those essential oils which contain black pepper and ginger-like Piper nigrum, Zingiber Officinalis, etc. because it helps in reducing arthritis pain and improves flexibility [1].
What happens when you inhale it?
When you inhale essential oils or rub them somewhere, their aroma is firstly processed by the nose. There is an olfactory bulb, in the nose which helps you in identifying different emotions. After this, it activates the amygdala gland which alters different moods and emotions, whether they are good or bad.
Several research studies have shown that essential oils affect our emotions and mood. According to the International Journal of Neuroscience, “Studies have consistently shown that odors and fragrance can produce specific effects on human neuropsychological and autonomic function. It influences the mood and health both.” [2] According to a research study, aromatherapy decreases the stress level in patients [3].
Major Examples
Essential oils derived from the plant family Cupressaceae is famous for decreasing nervousness and stress [4].
Similarly, the Essential oils from the Monoterpene and Sesquiterpene chemical families are good for balancing all kinds of emotions [5].
What happens when you ingest it?
Oral ingestion of essential oils is not recommended. It is because, for the safe practice, you need to have a lot of precautions and knowledge relevant to it. Oral ingestion should be done with specially trained physicians and pharmacists only. Some essential oils can be harmful to the liver or kidneys when ingested, that’s why its good to inhale or rub it over the desired area.
I think the effects mentioned above are enough to justify its beneficial properties for your mental health. Then, what are you waiting for? Go and check out the latest collection of Aroma Farmacy’s Essential oils and buy them at an affordable price.