Try aroma massages this weekend (see pics)

Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine that uses volatile plant materials, known as essential oils, and other aromatic compounds for the purpose of altering a person's mind, mood, cognitive function or health.It is the treatment or prevention of disease by use of essential oils. Other stated uses include pain and anxiety reduction, enhancement of energy and short-term memory, relaxation, hair loss prevention, and reduction of eczema-induced itching.While precise knowledge of the synergy between the body and aromatic oils is often claimed by aromatherapists, the efficacy of aromatherapy remains unproven.However, some preliminary clinical studies of aromatherapy in combination with other techniques show positive effects. Aromatherapy does not cure conditions, but helps the body to find a natural way to cure itself and improve immune response.This is a pure and unadulterated natural remedy to many aches, stress and dull moods etc. The essential oils that are used in this therapy are concentrated extracts which are derived from the roots, leaves and blossoms of herbs.Essential oils are very powerful in their concentrated form. This is the reason they are not directly applied onto the skin.They are first diluted with carrier oils like vegetable oil, apricot kernel oil or sweet almond oil. When two different essential oils are mixed with carrier oil, the result is always more effective in soothing the pain and calming the mind.But only professionals with experience know the formulations and this is the reason why aromatherapy is mostly practised in spas and parlours.As the weekend is approaching, take a break and give a trial to this natural therapy, which will make you feel rejuvenated.Here are 5 major benefits of Aromatherapy: 1. Healing PropertiesAromas can be used as a first aid measure for minor burns and cuts. For example, lavender essential oil is a good relief for dry and inflamed skin and tea tree essential oil is good for warts, rashes, insect bites, cuts etc. The discomforts of asthma, arthritis and allergies are also relieved using aromatherapy.2. Energizes And RejuvenatesThe most popular advantageous effect of aromatherapy lies in relieving stress and calming down tensed moods. Due to this, aromatherapy is used as a sleep inducer as this indirectly helps in easing stressful situations.This is due to the fact that the scents and essential oils affect the body so that cortisol, the primary hormone that causes stress, is decreased.This is why aromatherapy sessions are so popular at spas and wellness centres. Aromatherapy and massage are two of the best ways to loosen the muscles and de-stress. These sessions also aid in reducing weariness, anxiety and depression etc while increasing the alertness and energy levels of the body.3. Stimulates Immune SystemUndergoing aromatherapy strengthens the immune system of the body and also alleviates any fungal and bacterial infections from the system.Various diseases are cured because the immunity gets a boost on undergoing aromatherapy.Tea tree oil treats acne, athlete's foot and onychomycosis nail infections. Another lesser known fact is that aromatic massage reduces cortisone levels in children having juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.4. Aids In Blood CirculationOne of the best essential oils to aid in blood circulation is true bay (scientific name: Laurus nobilis) while lemon and grapefruit are also good.Good carrier oil for these essential oils is calendula. The other oils used to improve general circulation are basil, rosemary, thyme, marjoram and clove. These oils also normalize high blood pressure.5. Relieves Cramps/SpasmsAromatherapy has therapeutic effects on menstrual cramps, muscle spasms and headaches also. Eucalyptus oil is best recommended to treat pain, headaches and spasms.Lavender and peppermint oil are also known to have a soothing effect on cramps and pains in general.Aromatherapy brings relief to expectant mothers during labour pains at the time of childbirth. It is known to normalise childbirths and cure severe labour experiences.