Life in the modern workplace can be extremely stressful and take a toll on your health. People deal with stress in a variety of different ways, from using prescription medication to drinking their problems away. However, one area that’s normally overlooked is the power of scent, or aromas to relieve stress. It may sound odd, but research has shown how various aromas can reduce stress and help alleviate other symptoms through complex brain mechanisms.
The most common use of scent as a health booster comes in the form of aromatherapy, which uses essential oils (distilled from plants), botanicals (dry plant material) and various dispersion techniques to create an inhalable aroma. For those who are sceptical of its effectiveness, consider that it’s been in use for thousands of years in various forms and different communities. Consider a study from The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine dealing with burnout — characterized by stress, fatigue, a cynical attitude toward work, and a reduction in productivity. When scents from various aromatic compounds were inhaled using personal inhalers, there was a significant reduction in symptoms.
Another study from the journal, Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology, showed a link between the scent of rosemary with an improvement in cognitive function. NASA also funded a study showing decreased fatigue, anxiety and frustration using the scent of peppermint oil. This article from Mayo clinic summarizes the benefits of aromatherapy for stress management. Below are three journal articles for those who need more scientific proof that aromatherapy helps to relieve mental issues.
- Pharmacological profile of essential oils with anti‐agitation properties.
- Effect of lavender aroma on salivary endocrinological stress markers.
- A systematic review of the use of aromatherapy in treatment of behavioral problems in dementia.
At Aromatherapy by Blaze Afrik, we use the latest advances in aromatherapy to reduce anxiety. Our skilled therapists will prepare you delicate aroma blends that will make all your stress waft away. It is a natural, fast and healthy way to alter thoughts, feelings and emotions from a negative state to a more positive one. Visit us today to experience the power of aromatherapy in the treatment of stress and for relaxation.
