There are many different points of view and opinions about the use of essential oils to treat a number of different medical complaints. For example, there are some who choose to only use so-called ‘alternative therapies’ whilst others put their faith entirely in modern medicine.
If you were to ask us then we would say that taking a common-sense approach and not immediately turning to modern medicines for some more minor complaints, such as cuts, bruises, headaches etc for which essential oils can prove very effective. However, we would never advise using essential oils for the treatment of serious conditions unless under the direct supervision of a qualified aromatherapist or doctor.
However, there are a number of scientific studies that are reporting statistically significant results concerning the efficacy of various essential oils to treat a number of complaints. For example, there have been studies that have proved that lavender essential oil acts to slow the central nervous system, which is why it can have such a great effect in inducing peaceful sleep, lowering stress levels and providing a general calming and soothing effect.
Whereas rosemary essential oil has been found to help to both improve memory and invigorate your scalp! And these are just some of the growing field of proven effects of many different essential oils.
Essential oils, or the whole plants that they are derived from, have been used throughout history to treat various medical issues. For example, ancient roman doctors would wash wounds with lavender water. This was not because they could scientifically prove its efficacy in inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria, but simply because they saw its effects.
It is also worth remembering that many of our modern medicines are in fact based on compounds that were initially found in nature. For example, the active ingredient in aspirin, salicylic acid, is extracted from willow bark – this still is one method of creating aspirin today. And as scientific research moves on more and more natural elements are being discovered that could have amazing healing powers. For example, there is currently research being conducted into a compound found in turmeric root that could form an effective treatment for cancer.
There is also a school of thought that expounds the idea that the inhalation of essential oil vapour can be a more effective method of treating some ailments than taking oral medication. This is because your nose is lined with a large number of capillaries and scent receptors that can transport the active ingredients in the essential oils straight into the bloodstream and into the brain. Whereas oral medications first have to survive the digestive process and not being filtered out by the liver as a toxin.
Whatever your view about ‘alternative’ versus ‘modern’ medicine, next time you have a headache or are struggling to sleep, why not try inhaling a little of our gorgeous Jersey lavender essential oil before opening the medicine cabinet?
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