Inhaling
essential oils is very powerful. An odor molecule travels to the nose
and the olfactory nerves relay information through the olfactory bulb
deep inside the old brain, or the limbic system. The olfactory nerves
are considered part of the brain. According to some scientists the
limbic system is the oldest part of the brain. Once the nose perceives
a special fragrance the information is sent straight to the limbic
system without having to be analyzed in other parts of the brain first.
Aromatic
stimuli of the limbic system cause the release of neurotransmitters,
including pain-reducing encephalin, pleasure producing endorphins,
relaxing serotonin, and stimulating noradrenaline.
Here are some common ways to inhale the essential oils:
- Inhale straight from the bottle.
- Use a diffuser that disperses the oil in the air as a thin vapor.
- Put 2 or more
drops into the palm of your left hand, rub clockwise with the flat palm
or your right hand. Cup your hands together over the nose and mouth and
inhale deeply. Don't touch your eyes!
- Apply oils to
a cotton ball, tissue, or handkerchief and place in the air vent of
your car. Make sure you don't use any synthetic materials.
- Add a few
drops to a bowl of warm but not boiling water. Inhale the steaming
vapors from the bowl. To increase intensity, drape a towel over your
head and bowl before inhaling.
- Rub 2 or more drops on your wrists, chest, neck, or under the nose and ears. (Indirect inhalation).----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives.
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