I'm going to hazard a guess and say most people who visit an aromatherapy website might not expect things to get so technical. A huge part of why I love aromatherapy is understanding how and why it works the way it does. So! Science lesson here we go!
Let's start with the basics. Aromatherapy is so much more than smelly liquids in fancy bottles. My blends are mostly about topical application, that is things like lotion and lip balm. That said, today I'll mostly be discussing olfaction, the act of smelling things, and how essential oils play into your emotions. I promise, no hypnosis, we'll leave that to other professionals.
Now to dive into the brain. I just love that chunk of electric meat between my ears, the things the brain are capable of are beyond fascinating! Part of your brain, the limbic system, is in control of emotions, instincts, and memory. The act of olfaction, smelling, is a direct link to your limbic system. Crazy, right?
But what does the limbic system have to do with essential oils?
Essential oils are packed full of all kinds of properties that do a variety of different things. We'll use one of my favorite oils, Lavender. When I'm talking about lavender I mean Lavandula angustifolia. Lavender is uniquely qualified to help someone calm down because of its chemical make up. I won't geek out on this, just a fun fact. I'm sure we all know Lavender is a good friend to have when you're feeling a bit stressed out. But do you know why? Olfaction and the limbic system. Yup, when you smell that Lavender, those chemicals dive up your nose directly to your brain and (generally) you'll feel calmer. That direct link to the emotional hub of the brain can be useful!
The last time I relied on Lavender was on an outing with my kid. We visited a science center to look at wolves and learn more about how to protect Minnesota's vulnerable wildlife. The day we went as an event day, so the indoors portion was packed and loud! I felt immediately overstimulated- I could feel my body wanting to dissociate and I was so aware how short my temper was getting. I stepped out for a moment to put in my Loop earplugs to dampen the noise. When I was ready to go back I used my inhaler to enjoy Lavender and let my brain settle down a bit. That doesn't mean I was magically cured and all the stress in my body just melted away. But I had some great tools to keep me present while my kid was having fun coloring a paper wolf. If I didn't have the Lavender with me I would still have been far too overstimulated and miserable.
Go out and smell those roses, dear reader!
Peace to you,
Willow R
Owner, Rooted in my Strength
rootedinmystrength@gmail.com
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