Why We Use Aromatherapy

Why do we use Aromatherapy at Chill? Because it smells good, creates space distinct from unnatural work environments, hectic home environments or traffic? Well sure, and I also use it to cover up the fact that my vacuum smells not so vaguely of dog, but the deeper reason lies well err deeper in the brain. Here's an excep from, neuroscientist, Daniel G. Amen, M.D's book, "Change your Brain, Change your Life." He talks about the biochemistry of essential oils specifically Lavender. So the next time you come into chill, start at the door with a deep breath through the nose, aaaaah you are half way there already. Here's the proof:





"Your deep limbic system is the part of your brain that directly processes your sense of smell. That is why perfumes and wonderful-smelling soaps are attractive and unpleasant body odors are repellent. In the British journal The Lancet, a study was reported on the benefits of aromatherapy using the oil from lavender flowers. When used properly, lavender oil aroma helped people to feel less stressed and less depressed. It also enhanced sleep. In aromatherapy, special fragrances are used in a steam machine, in the bath, on the pillow, and in potpourris. These fragrances can have an appreciable effect on people's moods. However, there is a difference between ingesting the substance and smelling it. When you ingest something, it goes to the stomach and is processed by the digestive system. (Moreover, many essential oils, including lavender, are dangerous if ingested.) A smell, however, activates the olfactory nerves, which go directly to the deep limbic system...Many people have noticed that certain smells sometimes bring up very strong, clear memories, as if the whole feeling and sense of the original event were coming back to them. There is a good reason for that: smell and memory are processed in the same area of the brain. Because smells activate neurocircuits in the deep limbic system, they bring about a more complete recall of events, which gives one access to details of the past with great clarity. Smells have an effect on moods. The right smells likely cool the deep limbic system. Pleasing fragrances are like an anti-inflammatory. By surrounding yourself with flowers, sweet fragrances, and other pleasant smells, you affect the working of your brain in a powerful and positive way.
Change Your Brain, Change Your Life:The Breakthrough Program for Conquering Anxiety,Depression, Obsessiveness, Anger, and Impulsiveness