Aromatherapy plays an important role in Holistic healing by balancing the mind, body and soul. It uses essential oils extracted from parts of plants. Most pure essential oils are extracted from plants through steam distillation; flowers, stems, bark and leaves are used in this process.
 
It is believed, that our sense of smell is one of the most developed senses in our body. Human beings respond to different kinds of smells in different ways. Essential oils have the ability to calm fear, anxiety, stress and insomnia.

Most pure essential oils are strong, so they have to be diluted before using. Care should be taken while choosing a brand of Essential oil, as synthetics oils can cause unfavourable effects on the body.

5 essential oils that can help you live a better life, are as follows:

1. 1) Lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia):

   It is one of the most common essential oils available in the market. Its sweet aroma acts as an antidepressant, promotes good sleep, cures headaches, helps to relieve stress and anxiety. It works as an antiseptic also. few drops of this oil can be poured on a piece of cloth and placed on your forehead for 20 minutes to get relief from headache, stress and anxiety. It can also be mixed with vegetable oil and used as a massage oil for forehead. Or you can scent your bedroom with this oil by using diffusers, sachet or placing cotton balls dabbed with oil for a peaceful sleep.

1. 2) Peppermint (Mentha Piperita):

   it has many healing properties. It eases migraines, clears congestion, helps concentrate, relieves fatigue, stimulates you mentally, eases nausea and vomiting. Few drops can be dabbed on your forehead and temples for elevating mood. 8 to 10 drops of this oil can be added to water for a soothing bath in the morning. A body rinse can be made at home by adding 2-3 drops of this oil, juice of one lemon in 2 cups of water. This rinse can be applied on the body before showering, to make a fresh start!

   3) Tea tree oil (Melaleuca Alternifolia):

   This oil possesses antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antifungal properties. It can be used to treat acne, athlete’s foot, contact dermatitis or head lice. It can be used topically to treat the above. Placing a few drops of the oil on a piece of cotton and applying on the affected area can be of considerable help.To cure dandruff, few drops in your hair wash can work wonders!
   
   It is commonly used in cosmetics and beauty products because of its healing properties. It is also used as a mouthwash to soothe gum inflammation. A home-made mouthwash can be made by adding two drops to a cup of water.

1. 4) Lemon (Citrus Limon):

   Lemon essential oil has properties that can be used to reduce stress, anxiety and fatigue and cure insomnia. Its vibrant smell infuses energy into you. It also helps to reduce pain, increase immunity and promote weight loss.
   
   A study was conducted on 28 adults out of whom 17 were suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. They were given aromatherapy for 28 days using lemon, rosemary, lavender, and orange essential oils. A visible change was noticed in the cognitive skills of patients suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Small amount of this oil can be mixed with a carrier oil like jojoba or almond oil and can be applied to your skin. Few drops can be added to water during bath. It can be used in diffusers in homes and offices to elevate your mind and heal your body.

1. 5) Rosemary(Rosmarinus officinalis):

   It is used in massage oils to soothe muscles and reduce pain. It cures fatigue, reduces stress and infuses freshness into your body. It is also used in hair treatment formulas as it is known to have properties that stimulate hair growth. Smelling rosemary oil can Improve memory. Ancient Greeks and Romans used it to strengthen memory.

Mother Nature has a whole treasure box of plants and flowers that can help you heal your mind, body and soul. An expert Bach Flower Therapist can help you with essences of wild flowers to balance your emotions and create wellness in your mind and body. Click here for Bach Flower Therapists with whom you can have a Video-Enabled Session, from your home.