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he practice of aromatherapy uses essential oils to treat medical conditions, to alleviate psychological ailments, for cosmetic purposes, and to reduce stress. Essential oils of aromatherapy can powerfully enhance your physical and mental state.

Inhaling the aromas of essential oils...

Essential oils enter the body three ways. Inhaling the aromas of essential oils allows oil molecules to enter the bloodstream through capillaries in the lungs. Essential oils can also be absorbed through the skin. Although essential oils can be ingested, this method is not recommended without oversight by a qualified aromatherapist.

The essential oils of aromatherapy can be inhaled in two different ways: steam inhalation or dry inhalation.

The best aromatherapy treatment method for respiratory disorders is steam inhalation.

The best aromatherapy treatment method for respiratory disorders is steam inhalation. Begin by adding few drops of essential oil to a large bowl of very hot water. Then you should drape a towel over your head, using the towel to make a tent with the bowl of hot water and essential oil at the base. Breathe deeply for a few minutes, but stop if you feel very hot or uncomfortable.

Make sure that you put the bowl on something high enough that you don't have to bend over. Also, be aware that suddenly raising your head can cause dizziness. Outside of these minor cautions, inhalation of essential oils using this method is quite beneficial. It moistens your airways, loosens mucus and clears blocked sinuses. Also, via this method, essential oil vapors will enter your bloodstream rapidly so that they can begin working right away.

Some aromatic oils can be used in dry inhalation. Apply a few drops of essential oil to a handkerchief or small cloth, and hold this a few inches away from your nose while breathing in. Eucalyptus oil works well for relieving a stuffy nose. Dry inhalation also works by placing a few drops of an appropriate essential oil on your pillow before going to bed. Using lavender oil in this way can help promote more restful sleep.

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