Results: Aromatherapy with surprising benefits

Essential oils are natural, extracted from flowers, leaves, bark, or roots of plants, and can provide much-needed relief and healing through simply smelling them. Aromatherapy, or the ancient practice of using these aroma compounds to alter oneself, has many uses and benefits. People are choosing these treatments because they are more personal, less invasive and often have lower costs. Do you use essential oils?

COSMETIC: There are many essential oils (such as rosemary, tea tree and chamomile) that have unique properties when applied directly to skin. Topical issues that can be treated with natural remedies include wrinkles, acne, sunburn, bug bites, hives, psoriasis and eczema. These benefits come from the oil's antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, according to Optiderma.com. Do you use essential oils for cosmetic reasons?

MASSAGE: During a massage, essential oils are absorbed through the skin, as well as through the nostrils. Aromatherapy massages can help with stress, headaches, digestive disorders, back pain, and even possibly relief from disease. A 2004 study found that cancer patients saw an improved quality of life and reduced psychological distress after this natural treatment. Are you familiar with this natural treatment?

CHIROPRACTIC: If aromatherapy combined with massage doesn't help your pain, try mixing essential oils with a chiropractor appointment. Across the U.S., doctors are currently embracing and combining these two ancient healing practices, and a quick Google search will show the national demand. If you go to a chiropractor, have they used essential oils on you?

PSYCHOTHERAPY: Some therapists include selected aromas in their therapeutic session to promote additional healing and balance. The American Psychological Association reported that, recent research has found that aromatherapy can help treat pain, anxiety and agitation specific to dementia. It can be integrated into ongoing practice, but an aromatherapist certification is suggested by the APA. Do you think essential oils can help with dementia patients?