By Kelly Frances
Most of us have used a scented room spray or candle from time to time to calm our nerves, enhance the mood, or simply because we enjoy the scent of a well perfumed room.
Trendy aromas such as lavender, rose and jasmine are easily recognizable and inspire a plethora of commercial goods. However, most people are unaware of the actual health benefits of true aromatherapy, a practice which dates back to the times of ancient Egypt.
Today, the meaning of aromatherapy extends to the holistic practice of using a plant's volatile essential oils to treat body, mind and spirit. Experts advise that quality is critical in order to obtain the ultimate benefit of an aroma.
“Many people identify with a scent and turn away when they see the high cost of the oil. They may spend less on a synthetically scented product, but the optimal health benefit is lost,” aroma therapist Christine Choi explains.
“Everyone knows what lavender smells like. What people usually don’t know is that lavender oil can help relieve the symptoms of allergies, ease tension and even prevent headaches if used properly. It also soothes burns when directly applied,” she said.
Trained at Tisserand Institute in England, Choi is now a team leader at the Grand Hyatt’s The Spa, where she oversees the use of oils in massage, hair, skin and body treatments.
According to Choi, oils can be potent enough to cause damage if not used properly, but are easy to enjoy with a little guidance. Choi explains that different oils have distinct properties and applications.
“Frankincense oil is often found in spiritual places such as churches, and this isn’t an accident. The oil is noted for its positive effect on concentration and mental clarity,” she said.
Choi adds that the quality of the oil is related to the number of distillations that occur from the actual plant.
“Oil derived from the plant’s first distillation is best, but they are often very costly”, she said. “For example, 10 milliliters of high grade rose oil runs at 40,000 won, but it’s unbeatable for moisturizing the skin.”
Amazingly it takes 600 pounds (223kg) of rose petals to create one ounce (28.3g) of rose oil.
Aromatherapy isn’t just for exotic spa use. Choi notes that there are plenty of ways to use oils at home, through the use of manual or electric distillers or a simple basin of clean water.
“Diluted oils can be applied behind the ears, at the base of the neck or under the nose as a breathing or stress reducing aid," she said, emphasizing that pure oils should never be put directly onto the skin.
“Tea tree oil is a great anti-septic, and can prevent fungal infections on the feet. A few drops into warm water make an excellent foot treatment. Eucalyptus and peppermint are excellent for the respiratory system ― just a few drops in a burner or distiller improve the breathing conditions in the room," she said.
And of course, in addition to the health benefits, they smell beautiful.
The writer is a freelancer from Ontario, Canada, and is currently living in Seoul, where she co-owns a Korean lifestyle website.