How do essential oils work?
Essential oils are natural oils typically obtained by distillation and has the characteristic odour of the plant source. How exactly do they affect us? Essential oils are able to have an impact on us as they affect our brain, our body, and what's inside our bodies! This effect is also known as the 3 P's. Psychological, Physiological and Pharmacological.
Psychological Impact
Our sense of smell is closely linked to our memory thus a particular smell can cause particular responses. For example, Lemongrass may remind you of a good holiday in Thailand thus it’s smell may bring back positive memories experienced there, provoking a positive response. Physiological Impact Essential oils are able to change the chemical messages and impulses sent around the body. This changes the way the systems of the human body function. For exampale, oils that stimulate the circulation helps to ease blood vessel problems such as Varicose veins and is warming to cold hands and feet. Pharmacological Impact Essential oils are absorbed into the body either through skin or inhalation. The naturally occurring chemicals in the oils enter the blood and other bodily fluids then interact with the chemicals in our bodies. For example, Hormones, neurotransmitters and enzymes which enable our nervous system to work are all chemicals. The presence of another chemical (the naturally occurring chemicals in essential oils) is able to affect the way they work. |