Aromatherapy is used for everything from relieving sinus pressure to soothing away stress. Choosing the best aromatherapy kits is based on more than scent alone. Understanding the therapeutic benefits of the oils is equally important. To choose the best aromatherapy kits, some of the steps that can be helpful are to sample and research the oils used, determine which benefits you would like to receive and read the labels carefully before purchasing any kits.
Aromatherapy utilizes essential oils that are extracted from aromatic plants. The oil typically is inhaled or applied to the body in order to provide relaxation or other benefits. Essential oils are used in candles, body lotion, massage oils, oil burners and other scented home or beauty products. Aromatherapy has been used for centuries and can be traced to ancient Egyptian and Roman times, when it was used in creating scented baths and for use in cosmetics and holistic healing.
A good first step in choosing the best aromatherapy kits is to sample and research some of the various oils and their benefits. Sampling can be done in stores specializing in aromatherapy and information about the benefits of certain oils is readily available online. Also keep in mind that the same scent might have a different effect on different people. Aromatherapy kits with the scents and benefits you are looking for will be the best for you.
Packaging also is important in choosing an aromatherapy kit. Essential oils should be stored in dark, glass bottles. Light can damage the oils, and plastic can contaminate them.
Carefully read packaging labels, as well. If fragrance is listed on the bottle as an ingredient, it generally is not a pure essential oil. There also should be variations in pricing, because some essential oils are more costly to make than others.
Vanilla, tea tree and peppermint are examples of oils that might be included in aromatherapy kits. Vanilla typically has a calming effect and is even believed to help people who feel claustrophobic. Tea tree and peppermint oils tend to be uplifting or energizing.
Be mindful of any allergies you have when choosing aromatherapy kits. You certainly don’t want to inhale chamomile or lavender if you know it makes you sneeze. There also is debate over whether pregnant women and those with certain health conditions should use aromatherapy. When in doubt, consult a qualified aromatherapy specialist or a physician.
When used properly, aromatherapy kits can provide a sense of well-being, relaxation or rejuvenation, along with many other benefits. Keep in mind that essential oils are potent and might be dangerous in some circumstances. Generally, undiluted oils should not be inhaled or applied directly to the skin. They also should never be used close to the eye area to avoid any irritation.
